tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62353713422737220992024-03-12T21:38:12.262-07:00High Fidelity-WGTBGeorgetown Radioakshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-65861750907520189032010-06-20T21:22:00.000-07:002010-06-20T21:42:23.316-07:00GrindinWell here it is folks, summer 2010. Actually was enjoying a relaxing few weeks at home, but I am back in DC now, so I figured I would come with my summer play list up to this point. <br /><br />1) WEST COAST PUNK<br /> -Been on a SERIOUS cali kick recently for some reason. 2 albums I have been continually spinning are Pennywise- Full Circle and Bad Religion- Against the Grain. These two albums are great summer time listening with plenty of sing alongs. They remind me of skateboarding, jumping off tall things into water, and everything else I love doing in summer. Also shout outs to Rancid- And Out Come the Wolves. One of my all time favorite albums, especially good in the summer.<br /><br />2) HIP-HOP<br /> - Gotta say I have been a little underwhelmed by the rap game so far this summer. Major releases from Drake and Eminem. Drake record is okay, definitely some big radio play hits, but only so much I can take of his fake robot singing voice. The Em record I respect, not gonna front like I am a big Em fan, but I'm sure for "those people" it's a classic. New mixtapes from Rick Ross and T.I. are also pretty good, but I am still waiting for a banger. Listen to Roc Marciano in the mean time.<br /><br />3) INDIE SHIT<br /> - I'd say I've been spinning some weird college radio nerd shit recently, but there are a few indie bands I like. My top three picks would have to be 1) The XX 2) Best Coast and 3) Beach House. All put out cool albums in the last couple months, though not the best summer listening. I have also been jamming Lemuria, which is a pretty cool girl fronted band that just signed with Bridge 9? WTF? Also been checking out the new Walter Schreifels record, An Open Letter to the Scene, which features some cool acoustic covers of hardcore songs, from bands such as Agnostic Front and Civ. Keep an eye out for a new LP from Wilkes-Barre's own Gypsy in the next few months. Will be wild!<br /><br />4) HOSTAGE CALM<br /> - Wasn't sure if I should put this band in indie or punk so I gave them their own category. I discovered Hostage Calm about 3 months ago, when I first heard a track from their upcoming S/T record on Run For Cover records. Literally doing some of the coolest shit right now musically, and I am really stoked to hear their LP when it comes out in July. Their first LP sounds like Dag Nasty, a DC band that seems to get no love any more, and their new record sounds just wild and unique. I love seeing a band step outside what's currently "cool" and just come up with something out of the blue. Big ups to the song "Ballots/Stones", which you can check out at myspace.com/hostagecalmct<br /><br />4) PUNK/HARDCORE<br /> - Summer is the best for punk and hardcore. Definitely some cool releases that have been coming out. Some of my friends in Dead End Path put out a very heavy 7", entitled Death Walks Beside Us, on Triple B records, heavily influenced by Death Threat, All Out War, and Alice in Chains. Also a new record on that label from Richmond's Fire & Ice that is awesome. Sounds even more like the Icemen, Burn, Dynamo, etc. all the best NYHC that your average norman coreman ignores these days. <br />Show wise, his year's annual This is Hardcore festival is coming STRONG with one of the best fest lineups in recent memory. Features classic NYHC such as the Mags and SHEER TERROR, who haven't played a show in a couple years at least. Fest is also rounding up with three back-to-back sets from no doubt the 3 MOST IMPORTANT hardcore bands ever to come out of Philly, Blacklisted, Kid Dynamite, and Ink & Dagger. Definitely will be a great weekend, looking forward to it majorly. <br />Other notable shows will the 4th of July BANGER in Richmond. Down to Nothing's set will sure to be wild, hope I can make it out. Also looking forward to seeing Underdog with Cold World at the Jersey Shore in a few weeks. Those two together is always a great combo, and this show has my pick for best show of the summer.<br /><br />Anyway, hope everyone is having a good summer, and check in for more updates soon, as I am planning on having a radio show starting this week!Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-3881582467293827262010-05-23T23:01:00.000-07:002010-05-23T23:28:32.936-07:00Thoughts on LOST<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.presheva.com/beauty/2008/evangeline-lilly.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 405px;" src="http://www.presheva.com/beauty/2008/evangeline-lilly.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well, it is with great displeasure that I am writing this article tonight, in the wake of the series finale of <span style="font-style: italic;">Lost</span>, the show that has captivated the hearts and minds of America, including myself, for the past 7 years. I can't think of any show in my lifetime, or in the past, that has generated the amount of buzz and hype as Lost, as people across the world were hooked by its cliffhanger mysteries and complex plot lines. As someone who has watched Lost from basically Season 1, whereas most have gotten in the game late via hulu, dvd's, etc., the show has become such a regular part of my life that it's kind of weird to think I won't be watching it anymore.<br /><br />So- some thoughts on the final episode. First off, I think it was cool how the final episode reunited everyone. I think it was great how the little "reconnection" scenes allowed us to remember the depth and storied past of many of the relationships, just as much of the last season has been about reminding us why we all loved Lost in the first place. Another thing I liked about this episode was that it really refocused the show on Jack. To me, Jack has always been THE main character, and it was kind of a bummer to me that they moved away from his story, but in the end, I believe they returned to the saga of the island as Jack's struggle. And in a sense, Jack's struggle embodies the struggles of many of us. By the final episode he is a broken man, having lost family, love, struggled with addiction, faith, and purpose, but in the end he follows his heart, and finds happiness, though, ultimately only through sacrificing his life. I was happy to see Jack finally end up with Kate. I just wish the ending was a little more clear cut (was the flash sideways reality, purgatory, etc?).<br /><br />In the end, I think the reason Lost has been so successful is that it addresses those questions that we all must ask ourselves at some point. <span style="font-style: italic;">Why are we here? What is our purpose? Lost </span>takes aim at these deep unanswerable and nagging questions. Ultimately, the central theme of Lost seems to be destiny. Every man is destined for greatness, though many, like Season 1-5/6 Jack, try to ignore their true calling until it's too late.<br /><br />Overall, I have to say Lost is one of my favorite shows of all time. Both it's entertainment value as a mystery and drama, combined with its deeper philosophical messages, though at times heavy-handed, make it one of the most poignant shows of all time. In a world where many shows are content to stick to the family sitcom, Lost breaks out of the TV shell and dares to shake us up a little. It challenges us to look deeper, ask questions, and to find our own island in life.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-78283697418548144692010-05-08T18:34:00.001-07:002010-05-08T18:57:52.248-07:00Yes Y'all and You Don't Stop<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://mumblelovesshrimp.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/iced_coffee_starbucks.jpg"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.villagevoice.com/blogs/statusainthood/dipset.gif"><br /></a><br />Ah, yes. I'm coming straight at you from floor 1 of Lauinger Library, straight procrastinating finals style. We've reached that time of year again, the temperature is up and the #BEBZ are out, kid. Break out your purple label shit (logo secret) and let's get a look at what's popping off for SUMMER 2010: Part 1.<br /><br />1) <a href="http://dipsethaiku.blogspot.com/">DIPSET DIPSET</a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.villagevoice.com/blogs/statusainthood/dipset.gif"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 685px; height: 351px;" src="http://www.villagevoice.com/blogs/statusainthood/dipset.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Yup, just in time for summer, one of my favorite rap crews of all time, DipSet has finally reunited. Cam'Ron and Jim Jones squashed their 4-5 year beef. Reminds me of summer 2005, listening to Purple Haze and watching Fade To Black on the way to the Bahamas. 2000-2005 was the golden era of Roc-a-Fella, with the label just DOMINATING the rap game. They had Jay-Z, Kanye, Dip Set, Freeway, State Prop, etc etc. Literally ALL the best rap albums of the 00's came out on Roc-a-Fella, and this was a great time to be a rap fan. Hope this little reunion can spark some unity and bring HOV back to the crew after that nasty Def-Jam beef.<br /><br />2) New Jams<br /><br />For me it's too hard to pick just one album I'm stoked for this summer, so I will just name a few. On one side of shit we got the Tigers Jaw/Balance & Composure split LP, as well as the new Tigers Jaw LP. These are both two dope PA bands that have just gotten better with each release, so you know I'm psyched to see them team up. Also excited to see what Tigers Jaw has up their sleeve for this new LP, since literally they have impressed me more and more with each release. Also coming off <a href="http://www.runforcoverrecords.com/">Run for Cover Records </a>is a newer band called Hostage Calm. Never really heard of them until I downloaded the RfC spring sampler and hear their new song, Jerry Rumspringer. DAMN it's a post-hardcore-poppy banger, and, after checking out their last LP, Lense, I will be sure to cop their new LP, also due out in the next few weeks.<br /><br />In the rap game, there are a few things I am excited for. One is kind of a guilty pleasure, and that's the new Rick Ross LP, <span style="font-style: italic;">Teflon Don</span>. His last album is literally the perfect summer-time pool party banger marathon, and I can only hope this new record matches up. With rhymes about ripping Miami on yachts, this album is sure to make the sound track for your summer party of choice, whether it be east coast style BBQ or west coast style gangster rap pool party shit. Also excited to hear new shit from Jay Electronica, as well as FREEWAY - again bringin the ROC and Philly back. Guilty Pleasure of the month: B.o.B.- Airplanes. Sure I kind of hate everything about this dude, but yall know I got a thing for Hayley Paramore and she sings the hook for this, which works really well for a rap song. I'm sure this song will be all over the place in the next 2-3 months.<br /><br />and finally brrrrr....<br /><br />3) Iced Coffee<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://mumblelovesshrimp.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/iced_coffee_starbucks.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 333px; height: 500px;" src="http://mumblelovesshrimp.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/iced_coffee_starbucks.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Yea, weird, I know. BUT I have never really been a coffee fan before this round of finals. Drank it a few times in Italy just cause they have the illest coffee game, but something about hot drinks that I just can't get into. ICED coffee, however, is actually pretty good. Guess it's time to get my grown ass man game on. Can't drink a tea I'm 20+ gimme me a iced coffee and a LOLO button up!<br /><br />Part 2 Coming Soon....Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-27198493940561683032010-03-01T08:24:00.000-08:002010-03-01T08:30:05.513-08:00XXL Mag's 2010 Freshmen<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2dopeboyz.okayplayer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/xxl-large.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 457px;" src="http://2dopeboyz.okayplayer.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/xxl-large.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Honestly, I haven't head much from these guys besides J. Cole and Wiz Khalifa. Some of these guys are absolute jokes though. OJ Da Juiceman, really?<div><br /></div><div>Anyways, here it is from XXL:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:medium;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 12px !important; line-height: 16px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); "></p><blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-size: 12px !important; line-height: 16px; ">The new breed of hustlers includes: Roc Nation’s first signee <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70834" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">J. Cole</span></a>, gangsta rap up-and-comer <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70644&comments=true" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Nipsey Hu$$le</span></a>, newly-minted <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=66910" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Asylum</span></a> lyricist <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70401&comments=true" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Pill</span></a>, 1017 Brick Squad member <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=71161" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">OJ Da Juiceman</span></a>, indie-sensation <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70407&comments=true" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Wiz Khalifa</span></a>, G.O.O.D. Music’s own <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70894" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Big Sean</span></a>, underground favorite <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70725&comments=true" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Fashawn</span></a>, Gary, Indiana rep <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70839" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Freddie Gibbs</span></a>, West Coast phenom <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=71442" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Jay Rock</span></a> and the <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=70413" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">latest addition to the Atlantic</span></a> roster, <a href="http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=71298" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Donnis</span></a>.</p><div></div></blockquote><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; ">Also, next Monday, the 8th, XXL is posting its 2010 Frehsmen mixtape, which features a new track from each of these guys. And it's free.</span></div></span></div>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-25744375896672478262010-02-22T16:00:00.000-08:002010-02-22T16:21:17.612-08:00Don't Call It a Comeback: What's Hot<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.mlive.com/the14-pointblog/photo/landon-donovan-everton-debutjpg-076e3c363893ae85_medium.jpg"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://avanturb.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jay-electronica.jpg"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.votailprof.it/__import_bloglist/sipario/files/2009/06/un_prophete-361x500.jpg"><br /></a><br />Does anyone still read this? I doubt it, but in case...I am bored and figured I would write a new update. Anyway, obviously High Fidelity is not on the air this semester, but if you need something else to do you can tune in to my other show YAB (Thursdays 11AM-12).<br /><br />So, haven't done this in a while, so I figured I will review some new ill shit.<br /><br />#1) Un Prophète<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.votailprof.it/__import_bloglist/sipario/files/2009/06/un_prophete-361x500.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 500px;" src="http://www.votailprof.it/__import_bloglist/sipario/files/2009/06/un_prophete-361x500.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This is a pretty dope movie, I've got to see. Seeing in how it is a French gangster flick, up for the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, I can't help but draw comparisons to last year's <span style="font-style: italic;">Gomorrah</span>. The movie is essentially the story of an Albanian Muslim dude who is thrown in a French prison, where he definitely does not belong. He is quickly thrown into some tough situations with the Corsican (pseudo-Italian) mafia, but is always torn between them and the other Muslims in the prison. This is an awesome modern European crime flick, but it was also cool to me because it touched a lot on the whole Muslim-European divide, as well as the European prison system, which is WILDLY different than our own. Must watch for any gangster/mafia movie fan. 8/10<br /><br />2) Jay Electronica<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://avanturb.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jay-electronica.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 445px; height: 287px;" src="http://avanturb.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/jay-electronica.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></a>Seems like most new rap shit I hear getting hyped is some weird electro-abstract Cudi clone BS, so I was pleasantly surprised when I listened to Jay Electronica's<span style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Victory. </span></span></span></span></span>This is a pretty talked about mixtape, as Jay is a former producer of a lot of big names. Anyway, what you get are some pretty cool beats mixed with Jay's smart flow. There are a lot of cool samples, and it strikes me as just an all around creative mix tape. Look out for his LP to drop this spring. 7.5/10<br /><br />3) Landon Donovan<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.mlive.com/the14-pointblog/photo/landon-donovan-everton-debutjpg-076e3c363893ae85_medium.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 337px;" src="http://media.mlive.com/the14-pointblog/photo/landon-donovan-everton-debutjpg-076e3c363893ae85_medium.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Landon Donovan, the guy who has pretty much carried US soccer on his back for the past 5-10 years, is finally get a break. Donovan signed with English side Everton in January, and since then has been doing big things for the club, with 1 goal and 2 assists in only 7 games. I am glad to see an American finally getting a chance in England, and actually playing up to his potential. Best case scenario: Donovan ends the season hot with Everton going into the world cup this summer. Don't tread on me! 10/10Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-7030145288549370182009-12-10T04:32:00.000-08:002009-12-10T04:34:08.990-08:00Mike Mictlan & Lazerbeak - Prizefight<div><br /></div><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UDel4Dl-_F8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UDel4Dl-_F8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Holy shit. That is all.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-38541708227600822372009-12-06T16:16:00.000-08:002009-12-06T16:23:25.330-08:00BRRRR<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rap-up.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/state-vs-radric-davis.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 475px; height: 475px;" src="http://www.rap-up.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/state-vs-radric-davis.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />This new Gucci record has got some of the illest tracks I have heard in a while. Just a shame that when Gucci is finally blowing up, he lands himself in jail (again). As if October's mixtape trio of The Cold War: BrrrrRussia, Great Brrritain, and Gucciamerica weren't enough, this LP is definitely a standout. Beats + Rhymes are on point, and I would like to point out some great collab choices by Gucci. Most rap albums I listen today are littered with meaningless collabs, obviously intended solely to inspire radio play. Gucci picks his crew wisely though, and I like the idea of having Baby and Wayne guesting on the same track. Also Usher making an appearance? not sure if I am into it but the track is pretty fiery. Shout out to Mike Epps! 8/10Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-10971009012082153492009-11-13T09:19:00.001-08:002009-11-13T09:22:04.836-08:00Ghostdini<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.hiphopmusicdotcom.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Ghostface-Killah-Presents-Ghostdini-The-Wizard-of-Poetry-In-Emerald-City-600x600.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 600px; height: 600px;" src="http://www.hiphopmusicdotcom.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Ghostface-Killah-Presents-Ghostdini-The-Wizard-of-Poetry-In-Emerald-City-600x600.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Speaking of Ghostface's new album, I don't know who thought this song was a good idea, but "Stapleton Sex" is THE most dirty song I have ever heard in my 20+ years of life. It would make Luke from 2 Live Crew blush. It's so inappropriate that I'm not even embedding it here, I'm just going to link it: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-f_DN8J4RE">dirtyness here</a>.<br /><br />For once Tipper Gore may have been correct in thinking Parental Advisory stickers were necessary.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-2813425828042797152009-11-08T16:11:00.000-08:002009-11-08T16:27:41.305-08:00PlaylistedWell, haven't updated in a minute, so I figured I would update about what I've been getting into.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.destination360.com/europe/spain/images/s/spain-barcelona-hotels.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 415px; height: 332px;" src="http://www.destination360.com/europe/spain/images/s/spain-barcelona-hotels.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>1) TRAVEL: Barcelona<br />Gotta admit, I did not know much about Barcelona at all before I got there, aside from the few things I had seen or read in skateboarding videos and magazines about how wild the spots were there, and how cops just didn't care. Well, I've got to say, I was pretty surprised. To me it felt like Southern California x the Lower East Side x Miami Beach, so pretty wild shit. People don't eat dinner until well past midnight, and even though I had to walk across the entire city, it was a blast. Would (and will) visit again.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://arsenalist.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/fulljgetty-fbl-britain-arsenal-ebel_2_01_56_pm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 501px; height: 800px;" src="http://arsenalist.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/fulljgetty-fbl-britain-arsenal-ebel_2_01_56_pm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />2) SPORTS: Arsenal<br />Obviously, the Phillies are a priority, though being 5000 miles away, and them losing to the NY Roidees (ARod has a portrait of himself as a <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2353070/alex_rodriguez_centaur_a_bizarre_canvas.html">centaur</a>), I had to turn to my European team: Arsenal. Obviously I can follow them online and catch the occasional game on TV at home in the States, but actually going to a match at Emirates Stadium was unreal. Fans singing and standing the whole game, riots, hooligans, etc etc. Anyway, they are climbing the tables, Chelsea can suck one.<br /><br />3) MOVIES: Paranormal Activity<br />Heard a lot of hype about this movie from friends at home, but didn't really know what it was about. I decided to hold a screening, and was not disappointed. OK, the whole hand-held mocumentary gimmick was a bit much, but I thought it was cool and better than 99% of horror movies I have seen in the past few years (I'm reserving that 1% for Saw VI, which I plan on watching this week). The ending was wild, and it was a great Halloween time flick.<br /><br />4) MUSIC: Ghostdini: The Wizard of Poetry in Emerald City<br />Weird album title, but when has Ghostface ever not been? This eighth major studio release from Wu-Tang Veteran Ghostface Killah, in my opinion, is a breath of fresh air. Sure, I like Wu as much as the next guy, but I like the way Ghost switches his shit up on this record, mixing his trademark complex/abstract flow with a more R&B sound. Slept on this for the first few weeks it was out, but I am feeling it now.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-45695699525986758932009-10-17T08:09:00.000-07:002009-10-17T08:21:14.557-07:00Xaphoon Jones<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_iAmvGaxW60k/StHAFBG6ZMI/AAAAAAAAAfs/f-wJezpOAPI/s1600/XaphoonJonesMixtape1%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 607px; height: 455px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_iAmvGaxW60k/StHAFBG6ZMI/AAAAAAAAAfs/f-wJezpOAPI/s1600/XaphoonJonesMixtape1%5B4%5D.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I haven't posted much on this blog since coming to London, but seeing as I have a presentation due Wednesday and about 300 pages of reading before that, I think now is a good time to post.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/85/l_d6f8ea3105224e9fa3f87960966954a4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 600px; height: 399px;" src="http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/85/l_d6f8ea3105224e9fa3f87960966954a4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I just picked up some crazy mash-ups from Xaphoon Jones from Chiddy Bang. Until about 5 minutes ago, I had no idea who he was, but then I checked my friend's twitter and it linked me to Hype Machine. At the same time, go and check out Chiddy Bang and download their tracks for free on their <a href="http://soundcloud.com/chiddy-bang">site</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.abcdope.com/web/cbblog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 600px; height: 382px;" src="http://www.abcdope.com/web/cbblog.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Check out more on Xaphoon Jones <a href="http://notmanyexperts.blogspot.com/2009/10/xaphoon-jones-vol-1.html">here</a>, best mash-up ever. Kanye+Lupe+Radiohead and Clipse+Led Zeppelin. And if you enjoyed that, pick up the entire mixtape at <a href="http://prettymuchamazing.com/music/pma-presents-the-xaphoon-jones-mixtape-vol-1">Pretty Much Amazing</a>...<br /><br /><blockquote>We knew <a href="http://www.myspace.com/xaphoonjones">Xaphoon Jones</a> first as the producer and the sampling mastermind behind the quickly rising Chiddy Bang. Chiddy Bang owe most of the publicity they get to the tight, slick samples this guy has crafted for them. Like a musical pickpocket, Xaphoon Jones showed us that he has an ear for contemporary music and making it work in unconventional environments. With his debut eponymous mixtape, Xaphoon pushes passed the boundaries we thought he had and dips into soulful Motown favorites, East Coast Rap, and Reggae.</blockquote><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><em>The Xaphoon Jones Mixtape Vol. 1</em> introduces us to a very young, very talented producer full of promise, if not power. Pretty Much Amazing is proud to present this mixtape for your consumption. Download it, put it on your iPod, burn it onto a CD, play it at a party, send it to your friends.</blockquote><strong>Tracklist</strong> <span id="more-12267"></span><br />1. Intro: Fnish The Quartet<br />2. You Need (Clipse, Led Zeppelin)<br />3. Darwin Deez – Bad Day (Xaphoon Jones Remix)<br />4. Testify (Radiohead, Kanye West)<br />5. Chiddy Bang – Pro’s Freestyle 1.0 (Xaphoon Jones Remix)<br />6. The Answering Machine<br />7. Stuntin’ Like Atari (Theodore Grams, Lil Wayne)<br />8. Chiddy Bang – Fresh Like Us (Xaphoon Jones Remix feat. Theordore Grams)<br />9. Marvin Gaye – Heart It Through The Grapevine (Xaphoon Jones Remix)<br />10. Theodore Grams – Another Day<br />11. Swimming In The Sky (Passion Pit, B.I.G., Beyonce)<br />12. Theo’s Apple Juice Break<br />13. I Wanna Know Now (Bob Marley, MGMT)<br />14. Darwin Deez – Radar Detectr (Xaphoon Jones Remix)<br />15. Marva Whitney – Unwind Yourself: The Interlude<br />16. Money<br />17. Bmore SoulClash Mini-Mix<br />18. The Bay Vs. Diz (Strings Mix)<br />19. The Endakshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-91717482338409607012009-09-22T09:20:00.000-07:002009-09-22T09:46:07.258-07:00Fall 09: New Music ReviewWell the fall season is fully upon us as today is the first day of autumn. Over the past 3-4 weeks a huge number of albums have been coming out, here are a few I've chosen to review:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1) Jay-Z "The Blueprint 3"</span><br /><br />Jay-Z has consistently dominated the rap game since his first record. Granted he's had a few clunkers (kingdom come anyone?) but for the most part he's a legend. The Blueprint 3 was much hyped as 2009's "Black Album", but I would have to say it's not on the same level. There are some classic fiery Jigga tracks (Empire State of Mind, DOA, Run this Town, etc etc) but there are also a few throwaway tracks (Venus vs Mars, etc.). Overall an improvement for Jigga, and a good way to end the blueprint trilogy. 7.5/10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2) Kid Cudi "Man on the Moon"</span><br /><br />Admittedly, I am not a big fan of Kid Cudi, so you should know this going in. Anyway, I had heard mixed reviews about this album so I decided to give it a spin. Was a little surprised about how "out of the box" this record sounds. Definitely not your typical radio rap album, it's filled with electro-spacey beats and personal lyrics. OK, so Cudi can come creative, but to me this is just sounds second rate tracks that couldn't make it on 808's and Heartbreaks (which is dogshit to begin with). Guest spots by MGMT and and Ratatat will make this a sure hit with weirdo college electro-indie nerds. 5/10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3) Raekwon "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II"</span><br /><br />Oh wow, finally, this month, we have the long awaited sequel to Raekwon's 1995 masterpiece "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx". Fourteen years seems like a longtime to wait, but this record is solid all around. Classic minimal Wu beats with Raekwon's trademark complex flow make this a must listen for any self-respecting Wu-Tang fan. My favorite song might actually be the unreleased track that comes with the album, "The Badlands" featuring ill verse from the likes of Ghostface. Modern classic. 8/10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">4) Paramore "Brand New Eyes"</span><br /><br />Paramore has long been a guilty pleasure of mine, so you know I downloaded their new LP follow up to 2007's "Riot!". Sure enough, this record brings that same pop-punky sound coupled with Hayley Williams' clear-as-a-bell voice to make some real alterna-teen bangers. This record has a few more mid-tempo tracks than I would prefer, but these tracks are definitely well written. When the band does kick it up, it's well worth the wait. 7/10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">5) Alice in Chains "Black Gives Way to Blue"</span><br /><br />Nineties grunge masters AiC return after a long hiatus, mostly caused by the death of frontman Lane Staley. Luckily, they found a replacement who could fill the large shoes of Lane. BGWtB could easily have been recorded in 1996, as the band mixed heavy wah drenched guitar riffs with haunting vocal melodies. This record is sure to turn the heads of even the AiC purists who doubted the new vocalist. 7.5/10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">6) Maximum Penalty "Life & Times"</span><br /><br />NYHC OG's Max Pen are dropping their first release in a while with "Life & Times", and, I've got to say, it's pretty impressive. In a world where most old school hardcore bands can't seem to recapture the magic of the 80's and 90's, Maximum Penalty are doing a pretty good job. Not only do they discover their old "Easy Side Story" writing style, but expand upon it into a modern hardcore classic. 8.5/10Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-43244321605952832272009-09-04T08:00:00.000-07:002009-09-05T06:22:52.567-07:00Matt's Picks- Best of Summer 2009So my summer is pretty must over at this point (wah) but I thought I pick a few highlights of my four month vacation. All in all pretty productive few months, visited the South, worked in Europe, chilled on the West Coast, now back in Europe for a while. Here are the highlights:<br /><br />Best Albums of Summer 2009 (in no order)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.deathwishinc.com/estore/graphics/00000001/tui.secrets.hi.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.deathwishinc.com/estore/graphics/00000001/tui.secrets.hi.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />1) Trapped Under Ice- <span style="font-style: italic;">Secrets of the World</span><br /> Baltimore natives and current pit-masters really set it off this summer with their LP follow up to 2008's <span style="font-style: italic;">Stay Cold</span>. The new TUI is one of the hardest records I can remember coming out, and the LP proves that these guys can write new material but still keep it interesting. They toured with Terror, Madball, etc. on the 10 for 10 tour this summer, and I'm sure they will be touring for the rest of the fall too. If you are a fan of heavier music, this album is a must listen.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://runforcoverrecords.com/catalog/images/tfcoversmall.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 504px; height: 504px;" src="http://runforcoverrecords.com/catalog/images/tfcoversmall.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />2) Title Fight- <span style="font-style: italic;">The Last Thing You Forget<br /> </span><span>This three song EP is a great follow up to 2007's <span style="font-style: italic;">Kingston</span>, showcasing the maturing Title Fight's mastery of blending pop punk with 90's emo and melodic sounds. From slow pensive instrumentals (the B-Side) to innovative vocal melodies and trademark tempo changes, I'm sure this EP swill serve as a warm up for what is sure to be a great LP in 2010.<br /><br />Best Summer Blockbuster:<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPVJAZTIE-QwNeuijj8OFoXagzwgt39APy5OhPX2P2CFSoXRas_t5LKgiL2h_KRbd9e_16ybHhSP0XyOR7P2SfiF1St7_2N07k6IbP_SJFB1nF55Dggjor-S1NPbIASHn9DbGBsZFjco/s400/inglourious_basterds_xl_04--film-A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPVJAZTIE-QwNeuijj8OFoXagzwgt39APy5OhPX2P2CFSoXRas_t5LKgiL2h_KRbd9e_16ybHhSP0XyOR7P2SfiF1St7_2N07k6IbP_SJFB1nF55Dggjor-S1NPbIASHn9DbGBsZFjco/s400/inglourious_basterds_xl_04--film-A.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span>Inglorious Basterds<br /> When I heard about Tarantino's new flick, I wrote it off as another rehash of some obscure exploitation film, but once I started to see a few trailers, it definitely sparked my interest. World War II movies are some of my favorites, and the fact that he had assumed the guise of a spaghetti western director for this one definitely added an interesting spin. After the seeing the film, I can definitely say it's Tarantino's finest work to date. Sure, the midnight premier theater was filled with pseudo-film buff nerdsters know-it-alls (average Tarantino fans), but that didn't ruin it for me. Blending elements of spaghetti western and classic film noir, Tarantino managed to produce not only his most entertaining film, but also the most visually pleasing. For my money, my favorite scene, showcasing the director at his best, was the rendezvous at the pub. It was a classic Tarantino roundtable dialogue, but this time there was a surmounting tension, and the feeling that anything could happen at any time. Finally after a 20 minute set up scene of pure dialogue (in subtitles!) Tranatino hits the irony button and shows a less than 5 second shootout. Classic! The giant face in the smoke at the end too was also very ill.<br /><br />Best Show of 2009:<br />Cold World-> Floorpunch @ This Is Hardcore Festival (August 15)<br /><br />Although I saw many great sets this summer, my personal favorite would have to be the back to back Cold World set into the Floorpunch set at This is Hardcore in Philadelphia. Despite the insane heat, Cold World put on probably the best set I have seen them play (at least in the last 3-4 years). The sold out crowd was going nuts, constant dives and sing alongs, overall just a great atmosphere, people just going off for fun, which is tough to find at most shows these days. After Cold World played to an insane reaction, I was going to take it easy and watch Floorpunch from the back, having already seen the first 2 of their 3 reunion shows this summer. Of course though, they had to go and open with Jeff Perlin actually dueting Breakdown songs (All I Ask + Safe in a Crowd), and people just lost it. The rest of their set was awesome, also got a great reaction with plenty of pit action. Best back to back sets of the summer, hands down.<br /><br />Honorable Mentions for Summer 2009 "Best Of":<br />1. Arnold Palmer Lite tall cans<br />2. Title Fight Secret Show<br />3. Breakfast Burritos @ Beach Liquor in Carpinteria, CA<br />4. Paul Blart: Mall Cop on Blu-Ray<br /><br />EDIT: Just listened to the Blueprint 3. Fuck the haters, shit's fire.<br />Key tracks: Empire State of Mind, Run this Town, Off That, So Ambitious<br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-36355599389949556542009-07-20T15:21:00.001-07:002009-07-20T15:31:38.988-07:00Beastie Boys NewsToday, famous Beastie Boys MC, Adam Yauch has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a small form of cancer in his Parotid gland. Fortunately, however, the cancer is very treatable, and will only delay the Beasties' much anticipated upcoming album, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Hot Sauce Committee Pt. 1,</span> a few weeks. Below is the official announcement from 2/4 Beasties.<div><div><br /></div></div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/u7CH3M7cECI&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/u7CH3M7cECI&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><div><br /></div><div>In more positive news, however, the Beastie Boys have released an unexpected collaboration project with fellow NYC rap legend, Nas, called, "Too Many Rappers". They debuted this project at Bonaroo, and this track is the first single from new Beastie Boys album, released later this fall after Adam Yauch's cancer treatment. It's a fuzzed out spacey drum loop, reminiscent of "Intergalactic", featuring classic Beastie verses plus a twist surprise verse from Nas. Definitely interesting stuff here, can't wait to see what else the Beasties have up their sleeve for the new record. Peep the track at the link below:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204); font-family: Trebuchet; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.3em; "><a href="http://www.zshare.net/audio/6287567277bf40ee/">"Too Many Rappers"</a></div></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-69533616726314296222009-07-02T13:52:00.001-07:002009-07-02T13:56:57.847-07:00Street Sweeper Social Club - 100 Little Curses<object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PGhLQScRElI&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PGhLQScRElI&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="640"></embed></object><br />It's everyone's favorite radical rap-rock supergroup! Street Sweeper Social Club has made a video for their first single, "100 Little Curses." It features Breckin Meyer from <span style="font-style: italic;">Garfield</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Road Trip</span>, and<span style="font-style: italic;"> Rat Race<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span></span></span>fame, as well as Drea de Matteo from The Sopranos, Sons of Anarchy, and soon Desperate Housewives.<br /><br />And it includes Tom Morello going buckwild on a guitar, as well as Boots Riley's awesome fro and sideburns. I wonder who the other two guys in the band are.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-32504341178199667232009-06-27T10:58:00.000-07:002009-06-27T11:10:11.115-07:00Paramore New Shit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://blog.wmg.com/paramore/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/bne_cover_final.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 596px; height: 596px;" src="http://blog.wmg.com/paramore/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/bne_cover_final.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Oh snap, it looks like everyone's favorite female-led pop-punk band is back at it. They've just announced that their third studio LP will be titled <span style="font-style: italic;">Brand New Eyes</span> and will come out September 29th. It will come out on Fueled by Ramen, the same label they've been signed to since the beginning. Rob Cavallo will be the producer on this album. And for anyone who actually regularly reads this blog, you may recognize that name as the man who produced every Green Day until the latest piece of trash. But at the same time, he's produced Paris Hilton's album, Avril Lavigne, David Cook, and so on. But Paramore's last single, "Decode" off the <span style="font-style: italic;">Twilight</span> soundtrack was Paramore's first work with Cavallo. If the album sounds like that, all should be good.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/4a/Paramore-IgnoranceSingle.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 280px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/4a/Paramore-IgnoranceSingle.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Paramore has also stated that the first single off <span style="font-style: italic;">Brand New Eyes</span> will be "Ignorance," which will be available on iTunes and Amazon and other digital retailers July 7th. That's also the same day you can begin pre-ordering the album on Paramore's site.<br /><br />Track listing:<br /><h2><span class="mw-headline"></span></h2> <ol><li>"Careful"</li><li>"Ignorance"</li><li>"Playing God"</li><li>"Brick by Boring Brick"</li><li>"Turn It Off"</li><li>"The Only Exception"</li><li>"Feeling Sorry"</li><li>"Looking Up"</li><li>"Where the Lines Overlap"</li><li>"Misguided Ghosts"</li><li>"All I Wanted"</li></ol>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-89041636359403504062009-06-23T09:47:00.000-07:002009-06-23T10:00:24.285-07:00Clipse Kinda Like a Big Deal Video<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yPRgv2C0pWw&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yPRgv2C0pWw&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br />The return of the hardest rappers alive.<br /><br />Clipse has released their latest video, for their single "Kinda Like a Big Deal." The track and video features Kanye West, which is unfortunate, but whatever. The video is a generic hip-hop video, honestly, nothing special, but because it's Clipse, it warrants a post.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.wedoitrightmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/20071026-clipse1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 285px;" src="http://www.wedoitrightmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/20071026-clipse1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The new album from Clipse, <span style="font-style: italic;">Till the Casket Drops</span>, drops September 8th. Unlike their past two (three, really), this album isn't produced solely by The Neptunes. Instead, Clipse is following in the steps of Lil' Wayne by having the game's biggest and best producers on the album. Everyone from Swizz Beatz to Timbaland to Kanye to Rick Rubin have a hand in the production.<br /><br />Read more at <a href="http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2009/06/23/clipse-and-kanye-west-reveal-kinda-like-a-big-deal-video/">RollingStone.com</a>.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-4499271067169358092009-06-22T22:04:00.001-07:002009-06-22T22:16:20.658-07:00HBO's The Pacific<object id="flashObj" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="412" width="486"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/6555681001?isVid=1&publisherID=769341148"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=27118086001&playerID=6555681001&domain=embed&"><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com"><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/6555681001?isVid=1&publisherID=769341148" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="videoId=27118086001&playerID=6555681001&domain=embed&" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" swliveconnect="true" allowscriptaccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" height="412" width="486"></embed></object><br />It is my firm believe that the greatest thing ever put to film is the ten-part miniseries <span style="font-style: italic;">Band of Brothers</span>. Produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, who also gave us <span style="font-style: italic;">Saving Private Ryan</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Band of Brothers</span> told the story of Easy Company of the 2nd Infantry of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment during World War II.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://fusedfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/thepacific.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 410px; height: 270px;" src="http://fusedfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/thepacific.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Now, we have the trailer to the not-really-a-sequel, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pacific</span>. While <span style="font-style: italic;">Band of Brothers</span> focused on the Army's role in Europe, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pacific</span> deals with the Marines in the Pacific, duh. Also, most of the filming took place in Australia. It's said that the entire project created 4000 jobs in Australia and generated nearly AUD$180 million for the Australian economy. With a budget of $150 million, it's the most expensive series ever filmed in Australia. <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pacific</span> is adapted from two memoirs: <span style="font-style: italic;">With the Old Breed</span> by Eugene Sledge and <span style="font-style: italic;">Helmet for My Pillow</span> by Robert Leckie. These memoirs include the battles at Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, Peleliu, Okinawa, and Iwa Jima, so it's very likely these will appear in the miniseries.<br /><br />Look for it on HBO in the US March 2010.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-68053399802834902052009-06-22T14:11:00.000-07:002009-06-23T03:42:23.509-07:00Fuck the Bureau, I'd Rather Be Spending EurosMy List of what's "big" in Italy right now:<br /><br />1) Partying:<br />The summer has arrived here in Rome, which means that all types of tools are roaming the streets in search of a party. Luckily, my neighborhood is home to Rome's finest night spots, so I get to see the cream of the crop. For instance, say you are raging at the river banks club, <em>La Maison, </em>with Fat Joe, when you feel the urge to take a dip. Well you're in luck because this club has not only one but two swimming pools for you to swim in, suspended safely above the revolting waters of the Tiber. No joke here, this pic is from my own cell phone.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCZ2VoZwnNlV2qip6crupHeQsLRIoxlOgHPY0TGdu6i2Jxk9Uer3eSx3NS5g2x5sXhQ86tsCLySdvWxIW4IDDmTy2a2D-vg06vCYdV17Iuho5X0AtdGYYlvsUJ6asMutUUSBtDOFzowg/s1600-h/IMG_0312%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350269763355603458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCZ2VoZwnNlV2qip6crupHeQsLRIoxlOgHPY0TGdu6i2Jxk9Uer3eSx3NS5g2x5sXhQ86tsCLySdvWxIW4IDDmTy2a2D-vg06vCYdV17Iuho5X0AtdGYYlvsUJ6asMutUUSBtDOFzowg/s200/IMG_0312%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><br />2) Weird Hideous Velcro Designer Shoes<br />Don't really get the "look" behind this one. Somewhere between a nun's orthopedic and a weird spaceman slipper, I'll let the Euros rock this one, too bad their Air Max's cost $300.<br /><div><a href="http://www.uncrate.com/men/images/2006/06/boss-orange-velcro-sneakers.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.uncrate.com/men/images/2006/06/boss-orange-velcro-sneakers.jpg" /></a><br />3) Dime Piece Models</div><div>Italy has a rep for its young fillys, and this is NO JIVE<br /><a href="http://www.webwombat.com.au/lifestyle/fashion_beauty/images/victoria-secret-models-1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 388px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.webwombat.com.au/lifestyle/fashion_beauty/images/victoria-secret-models-1.jpg" /></a></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-31702304140640210802009-06-20T09:44:00.001-07:002009-06-20T10:20:07.854-07:00New Album ReleasesIn the past few weeks, a lot of new albums have come out from a wide range of artists.<br /><br />dredg - The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ea/The-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion-extralarge.jpg/671px-The-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion-extralarge.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 671px; height: 599px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ea/The-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion-extralarge.jpg/671px-The-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion-extralarge.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>First, one of my favorite local bands independently released their fourth album. Dredg comes from Los Gatos, CA and until recently was signed to Universal and Interscope. However, they were dropped from their label and decided to release their new album, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion</span> on their own Ohlone Label. Like their other albums, this album is inspired by high-brow art. While <span style="font-style: italic;">El Cielo</span> is inspired by Dali's <span style="font-style: italic;">Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee around a Pomegranate a Second Before Awakening</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion </span><span>is inspired by Salman Rushdie's essay "A Letter to the Six Billionth Citizen." Additionally, </span>bassist Drew Roulette describes the album as "a rock and roll record, filled with experimental journeys and eccentric jousts." Yeah, that sounds like dredg. Anyways, it's a damn good album, so I recommend you all go check it out.<br /><br />Street Sweeper Social Club - Street Sweeper Social Club<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a1/SSSC.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a1/SSSC.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Surely, the biggest album to come out recently was Street Sweeper Social Club's debut, self-titled effort. And it is an absolute banger, as if there was any doubt. Tom Morello and Boots Riley, 'nuff said. It's nice to hear Morello's riffs against some angry leftist, revolutionary lyrics again. And might I say that Boots Riley is a much more angry and Marxist individual than Zach de la Rocha. Morello says of the album, "Revolutionary party jams. It's got huge steamroller riffs combined with depth, charge, funk, while Boots unloads clip after clip of incendiary rhymes rich with satire and venom." Boots Riley adds, "This is a time when the working class is being fleeced left and right. More families will be homeless and more people will be jobless. They'll need something to listen to on their iPod's while storming Wall Street."<br /><br />Now if only someone can make a SSSC/One Day as a Lion mashup. It's half of Rage, the best half at that. They could call it One Day as a Street Sweeper. I came up with that myself, but you can use it.<br /><br />Kasabian - West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/02/Westryderpauperlunaticasylum.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/02/Westryderpauperlunaticasylum.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The third album from the Leicester-based quintet is titled <span style="font-style: italic;">West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum</span>. Guitarist Sergio Pizzorno has called the 52-minute album to "the soundtrack to an imaginary movie." Also, Rosario Dawson appears on track 7 "West Ryder/Silver Bullet." Apparently, West Riding Pauper Lunatic Asylum was a loony bin in England nears Leeds in the 19th century. And that's where the title comes from. I just wish they used the album cover from the "Vlad the Imaler" single:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.antville.org/static/videos/images/kasabian-1.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 381px; height: 254px;" src="http://www.antville.org/static/videos/images/kasabian-1.png" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Mos Def - The Ecstatic<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8e/The_Ecstatic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8e/The_Ecstatic.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This is the fourth solo album from Brooklyn-based rapper Mos Def. The title likely refers to the ecstasy that Obama induced in America. The first single off the album, "Life in Marvelous Times," is an Obama track. Anyways, Mos Def has been called the best lyricist alive. <a href="http://www.esquire.com/features/music/best-new-songs-0409?click=main_sr">Esquire</a> magazine has this to say about Mos Def and his second single, "Quiet Dog Bite Hard," "Because there is no better lyricist (or deliverer of lyrics) in music. Not hip-hop. Music." So, yeah. Well, the production is incredible, but what do you expect from J Dilla, Madlib, Oh No, and Chad Hugo. Somehow, with so many different producers, each track still sounds uniquely Mos Def. Given Mos Def is one of those crazy black guys with conspiracy theories about the government, his lyrics are incredible and his album is solid.<br /><br />Other albums this week include Wale's new mixtape <span style="font-style: italic;">Back to the Feature</span>, Incubus' greatest hits/b-sides compilation <span style="font-style: italic;">Monuments and Melodies.</span>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-33219142492975262152009-06-19T14:42:00.001-07:002009-06-19T14:45:26.212-07:00Flyer Than the Rest of Them<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ZhEZ5K8FGxY/Sjv8td3HJHI/AAAAAAAACU8/j1u3Ni-cMpQ/s400/Picture-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ZhEZ5K8FGxY/Sjv8td3HJHI/AAAAAAAACU8/j1u3Ni-cMpQ/s400/Picture-2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Finally...delayed a couple months, Wale's new mixtape is finally coming out today. You can pick <span style="font-style: italic;">Back to the Feature </span> up, probably around 7 PM Eastern at <a href="http://www.walemusic.com/">WaleMusic</a><a href="http://www.walemusic.com/">.com</a>.<br /><br />Ah, free music, it's better when it's legal.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-77447387172067258252009-06-13T23:18:00.000-07:002009-06-13T23:31:14.124-07:00Scorsese Returns: Shutter Island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui1zZnTy4SuDmoJB6C87rlZoUwN3DCEsU8glKiohV8aelKfs-Fj6ua3CC8_pA_y9o38IVIOfAUai4sl3k9pwU61bKxfBoSkNVQsl0LNxok3Bd-_20E4TGQ4TQsPwnHojwg4riDITB9dI/s400/ShutterIsland.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui1zZnTy4SuDmoJB6C87rlZoUwN3DCEsU8glKiohV8aelKfs-Fj6ua3CC8_pA_y9o38IVIOfAUai4sl3k9pwU61bKxfBoSkNVQsl0LNxok3Bd-_20E4TGQ4TQsPwnHojwg4riDITB9dI/s400/ShutterIsland.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This October my favorite director, Martin Scorsese, will return with his first major feature length drama since 2006's <span style="font-style: italic;">The Departed</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">Shutter Island</span> is a suspenseful mystery, which follows the journey of a young detective investigating the disappearance of a patient at an island prison for the criminally insane. The slick 1950's art-deco-y look of the movie is right up my alley, and the proven chemistry between Scorsese and lead actor Leo DiCaprio is sure to make for must see cinema. Marty hasn't really delved into the suspense/mystery genre since his remake of <span style="font-style: italic;">Cape Fear</span>, which is actually one of my <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/3290807171_5910bd107b.jpg?v=0">favorite</a> Scorsese movies. So naturally, when I first heard about <span style="font-style: italic;">Shutter Island</span>, I was pretty excited. Just today, however, I saw the trailer, and I have to say it looks awesome. Combine Scorsese's incendiary vision and DiCaprio's skill as a cop in a mysterious 1950's setting, and I think you have a pretty unbeatable setup. Anyway, the movie looks unreal, a must see (hopefully they will have it Europe somewhere in October), so be sure to check it out. Until then you can see the trailer <a href="http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/shutterisland/">here</a>.<br /><br />Also: keep an eye open for some new updates chronicling my life as I begin my summer job as a Vatican City tour guide LOLMatthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15221496706442183724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-33930820008726108952009-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:002009-06-05T20:45:22.619-07:00Wale - Chillin<object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-XwxKVBNbrQ&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-XwxKVBNbrQ&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="640"></embed></object><br />Wale (<a href="http://highfidelitywgtb.blogspot.com/2009/05/wale-king-of-dmv.html">The King of the DMV</a>) still hasn't put out that new mixtape with 9th Wonder. He claims it will come out next week, but that's when his LP is supposed to drop as well. My guess is that the mixtape comes out sometime next week, but the LP won't come out until next month. At this point, Wale is just taking his sweet time with releasing new music. But he did have time to make a video for his latest single "Chillin." The track and video feature Lady Gaga, who still confuses me. I don't know if she's hot, and this video does nothing to help me decide. It's those weird bangs she has. But apart from Lady Gaga, there are a lot of DC cameos, including Ben's Chili Bowl, Universal Madness, Slim Charles, Bun B, and Young Chris. Wale also hit up Bodega, the shoe store behind the Snapple machine, for the video. Too bad that shop's actually up in Boston, not in DC. Wale's also been on tour these past few months, promoting his album on the Attention: Deficit Tour. His last East Coast stop was in DC, at the 9:30 club. Check out footage from the show below:<br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/43KofIYIqMQ&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/43KofIYIqMQ&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-64041627016026640912009-06-05T11:13:00.000-07:002009-06-06T08:34:37.386-07:00New Hilltop Hoods<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://hilltophoods.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/ctf_myspace_poster.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 672px;" src="http://hilltophoods.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/ctf_myspace_poster.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>For any of you who have listened to our show, you've probably heard our favorite Australia hip-hop group Hilltop Hoods. Well, they've come out with their first single in three years, with a new album next week as well. The new single is entitled "Chase That Feeling." Check out the video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq8PyyMbrYQ">here</a>. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rhythmandpoetry.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/hilltophoodsstateoftheart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 293px; height: 293px;" src="http://www.rhythmandpoetry.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/hilltophoodsstateoftheart.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Also, for anyone who's heading to Australia this summer (winter for them), be sure to check them out when they tour. Not only that, but Hilltop Hoods is touring with <a href="http://highfidelitywgtb.blogspot.com/2009/05/classified-canadian-hip-hop.html">Classified</a>, our favorite Canadian rapper. If only I had an excuse to go to Australia, I imagine it's exactly like that Jackie Chan movie. Tour info <a href="http://www.hilltophoods.com/">here</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/92/JackieChan%27sFirstStrike_DVD.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 470px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/92/JackieChan%27sFirstStrike_DVD.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-72874234162554991012009-06-03T09:08:00.000-07:002009-06-03T18:35:30.535-07:00311 - Uplifter and Other News<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/Uplifter_.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 560px; height: 560px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/Uplifter_.jpeg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Check it out! 311 released their latest album yesterday, entitled <span style="font-style: italic;">Uplifter</span>. And if their first single "Hey You" is any indication, this album should be pretty solid. 311 stated ahead of the release that this, their 9th studio album would be their heaviest yet. I have yet to listen to it, but I'll update this post once I do later today.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Update</span>: This album is definitely not the best thing 311 has put out. Probably not in their top 5 albums (<span style="font-style: italic;">Soundsystem</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">311</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Transistor</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">From Chaos</span>, and <span style="font-style: italic;">Evolver</span> in no particular order). But it's still decent alt-rock with a twist of dub and reggae, classic, average 311. Some tracks would be perfectly at home on other, older albums (i.e. "Something Out of Nothing"). This track has heavy guitar and bass lines and a harmonized, nearly nonsensical chorus that is the band's trademark. The lyrics are generically forgettable, but if you are listening to 311 for insightful poetry, you are an idiot. This is easy-to-enjoy summer music. And wow, look when they decided to release it!<br /><br />Over the years, what 311's been best at has been creating one sound that merges so many different genres: rapping, rock guitar riffs, reggae steel drums, and dub echo and reverb. It's almost formulaic on some tracks, but that comes with having mega-producer Bob Rock on your album. For reference, he's the same guy who's worked with Simple Plan, Metallica, Bon Jovi, and Motley Crue. He produced <span style="font-style: italic;">St. Anger</span>, <span style="font-style: italic;">Slippery When Wet, </span>and The Offspring's new album <span style="font-style: italic;">Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace. </span>Take that as you will.<br /><br />Yet, one aspect of <span style="font-style: italic;">Uplifter</span> that separates it from past 311 albums is its acceptance of the indie sound (see "Too Much Too Fast"). It sounds like 311 channeling Weezer (new Weezer unfortunately). Too poppy for me. That being said, this album is definitely heavy on the whole, just like their older albums (pre-<span style="font-style: italic;">Soundsystem). </span>I honestly think this album would be much more well received had it been released between 1995-1999, instead of now when alt-rock is more acoustic and melodious than powerful and groovy. What's interesting to see is how much 311 and Incubus have diverged in recent years. While both began as reggae-loving, alt-rock, funk acts in the 90s, Incubus has embraced a more mellow sound, while 311 has stuck to its angsty, almost punk-chanting sound. Sure, 311 has it's lighter moments (i.e. Amber, My Heart Sings, Love Song), but on the whole, it's a much more heavy and groovy band than most out there. For evidence of this, check out the new tracks "India Ink" and "Never Ending Summer" that is some powerful stuff. I love these tracks, but some of the other tracks sound too generic, but it's all definitely better than <span style="font-style: italic;">Don't Tread on Me. </span>Needless to say, the funk abides, and P-Nut dominates. Just look at the silly bastard...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.mediag.net/nwimages/artists/1694/311190.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 283px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.mediag.net/nwimages/artists/1694/311190.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Overall, it's a bunch of 3-4 star tracks, nothing spectacular. The best tracks are "Hey You," "India Ink," "Never Ending Summer," and "Jackpot."<br /><br /><br />Other News:<br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Arctic Monkeys</span> </span>New Arctic Monkeys on August 25th! And if you didn't know, the third album from the British quartet is produced by QOTSA frontman Josh Homme, with the help of James Ford. That's some heavy shit. You can find more info here at <a href="http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/06/02/monkeys-mania-to-soon-take-over-the-worldagain/">CoS</a>. The album has no title yet, but it has a track list:</li><span style="font-style: italic;">1. My Propeller</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">2. Crying Lightning</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">3. Dangerous Animals</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">4. Secret Door</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">5. Potion Approaching</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">6. Fire & The Thud</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">7. Cornerstone</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">8. Dance Little Liar</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">9. Pretty Visitors</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">10. The Jeweller’s Hands<br /><br /></span><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">High Fidelity BU</span> </span>My boy Garrett is sitting in his apartment in Boston these days with little to do, so he's decided he will be updating his blog 3-5 times per week this month. Let's see if he keeps it up. Check it out <a href="http://highfidelitybu.blogspot.com/">here</a>.</li><br /><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Asher Baby!</span> </span>Asher Roth, fresh off his debut album has already gotten big enough that he is headlining his own tour. Of course, he's bringing some friends along, including Kid Cudi, B.o.B., Pac Dic, and 88 Keys. So, along with Lollapalooza and opening for the blink-182 reunion tour, Asher is going to headline "The Great Hangover Tour." I'm pretty excited about seeing Asher, Cudi, and B.o.B. in great small venues. I just wish I was back in DC to see them at 9:30. So, check out tour dates and other info at <a href="http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/06/03/asher-roth-seeks-to-cure-hangovers-everywhere/">CoS</a>.</li><br /><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Dr. Dre for Dr. Pepper</span> </span>Like Dr. J and Dr. Love (Gene Simmons) before him, Dr. Dre will now appear in a Dr. Pepper ad campaign. So, instead of finishing <span style="font-style: italic;">Detox</span>, Dre has decided to put out crap like <span style="font-style: italic;">Relapse</span> and to make Dr. Pepper commercials. Oh and to continue taking <a href="http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/crossfade/drdre.jpg">steroids</a>. Great. At least we get a short preview of some new Dre beats in the ad's background. Check it out below:<br /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f8/1126070790" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="videoId=24576263001&playerId=1126070790&viewerSecureGatewayURL=https://console.brightcove.com/services/amfgateway&servicesURL=http://services.brightcove.com/services&cdnURL=http://admin.brightcove.com&domain=embed&autoStart=false&" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" swliveconnect="true" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" height="412" width="486"></embed><br /></li><br /><li><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 0, 0);">Pearl Jam</span> Recently, Pearl Jam has announced that their new album <span style="font-style: italic;">Backspacer</span> will be sold exclusively at Target. You'll also be able to pick it up at "independent retailers" and from Pearl Jam's site. Not only that, but the band played a secret show in Seattle a little while back and filmed it with director Cameron Crowe. The shoot will apparently be a part of a new Target ad campaign just as Christina Aguilera had done with her last album. Not only that, but for the first time in 20 years, Pearl Jam is without record label, so it's safe to say that without Target's partnership, this album would probably not see the light of day. You'll be able to pick up a copy of the album in Fall. For now, Pearl Jam premiered a new song, "Get Some," on Conan on Monday. Check it out below:<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/4727a250e66f9723/4a26a7ed613da447/4a2557ac7503fc1d/ce7324a6/-cpid/79b431479fbb1124" id="W4727a250e66f97234a26a7ed613da447" height="283" width="384"><param name="movie" value="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/4727a250e66f9723/4a26a7ed613da447/4a2557ac7503fc1d/ce7324a6/-cpid/79b431479fbb1124"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><param name="allowNetworking" value="all"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></object><br /></li></ul>akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235371342273722099.post-81608846314385383792009-05-22T10:26:00.000-07:002009-05-22T10:33:27.549-07:00New Tracks From Base Trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrI0bF9WQKoo0abzTc5c_9ZeCwtD-f-UwnqW_FK0Tjoyy9SfqX42F8sbdJ0ICfnGQrhSlAFQ17a9anBLpWppWmkges2tsLRnmo0tLq9BmX3XY8hSWGHiMcxd47lRLR8vL8Ue0qCi1_A1U/s400/Haynes+Steph+%2B+Throwbacks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrI0bF9WQKoo0abzTc5c_9ZeCwtD-f-UwnqW_FK0Tjoyy9SfqX42F8sbdJ0ICfnGQrhSlAFQ17a9anBLpWppWmkges2tsLRnmo0tLq9BmX3XY8hSWGHiMcxd47lRLR8vL8Ue0qCi1_A1U/s400/Haynes+Steph+%2B+Throwbacks.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Base Trip artists <a href="http://myspace.com/throwbacklife">The Throwbacks</a> and <a href="http://myspace.com/rappersteph">Rapper Steph</a> have recorded new songs, and they've made a couple tracks available for <a href="http://basetriprecords.blogspot.com/2009/05/free-downloads-la-rapper-steph-and.html">free</a>.<br /><br />Get The Throwbacks <a href="http://www.zshare.net/audio/60322231faa291cb/">new track "Cooties" here</a>. And Rapper Steph's <a href="http://www.zshare.net/audio/603400145e3101fa/">new track "Present State of Mind" here</a>.<br /><br />And if you like these tracks, check out their MySpaces and learn more about <a href="http://basetriprecords.blogspot.com/">Base Trip</a>. If you don't know about Base Trip Records, head over to our little profile and history of the label <a href="http://highfidelitywgtb.blogspot.com/2009/05/base-trip-records.html">here</a>.akshayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17570898828301684006noreply@blogger.com0