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For Fans Of...El Michels Affair, Adrian Younge, Roy Ayers, Karriem Riggins, The Roots, Khruangbin. Deep, Hard Hitting Soul-Jazz Meets Dub Instrumental Analog Grooves For Your Psyche. In few words, Doctor Bionic can be described as Instrumental b-movie psych-hop. But that doesn't tell the whole story. Doctor Bionic is the brainchild of Cincinnati's Jason Grimes, formerly the producer of the hip-hop group MOOD (with emcees Main Flow & Donte). Having grown up in the Scribble Jam scene here in Cincy, and running in circles that included artists like Hi-Tek & Talib Kweli, Grimes' music has continued to evolve from sample-based loops, to live instrumentation with deep layering; provided by a revolving door of local musicians. The common thread in most Doctor Bionic tracks are the neck snapping drum breaks, but the tempo adjustments and varying instrumentation lends itself to a collection of non-genre specific songs - held together in unity by the flawless drums, often provided by Josiah Wolf (of indie-rock band Why?). The result of these recording sessions are a masterclass in musical juxtaposition. Spacious yet clustered. Futuristic nostalgia. Ideal for long car rides or setting the vibe during a laid back gathering of friends. Also Available From Doctor Bionic: The Invisible Hand LP. Tracks: 1.The Messengers 2. No Middle Ground 3. Purple Spark 4. Decades To Come 5. Shadows In The Sun 6. Snow Bird 7. In The Mirror 8. Dose Of Dank 9. The Things That We Love 10. History Lessons

Chicago-meets-Philly when Vic Spencer and Small Professor connect on Mudslide, the incredible new album from this pairing of raw talents. Coalmine Records is proud to share this project with the world, and it marks Small Pro’s third collaborative release on the label after he previously linked with Guilty Simpson and the late Sean Price. For the producer, it was an exciting new opportunity to team up with an emcee who’s gruff-voiced, hilarious, and can out-rap anyone on the planet. “Plus, my past Coalmine projects have their own neo/prog-boom-bap vibe, and ‘Mudslide’ continues that particular sonic blueprint,” Small Pro said. And for fans of that sound, you’re not going to find a better example of that sound than this album. It’s just as experimental as it is steeped in the traditions of rap thanks to Vic’s boundary-pushing rhymes and Small Pro’s immensely satisfying instrumentals. Tracks like “Lil Jon’s Weed Stash,” “Ew McNasty’s Revenge,” and “Selfcare Welfare” marry psychedelic vibes with grounded and clever lyricism. Another immediate standout is the lead focus track “Pitfall Music,” which features a mean-mugging guest verse from Flee Lord with cuts supplied by acclaimed turntablist, DJ Revolution.

Repress!

Blu is the leader of West Coast Hip Hop. Since the days of Pharcyde, Freestyle Fellowship, and Jurassic 5, there have been few wordsmiths that have grasped the attention of listeners worldwide. Introduced to NWA and Public Enemy by his father, Blu later was captivated by the likes of Black Star, The Roots, and Common, creating a unique balance that is displayed in Blu’s personality and music. Blu’s first full length LP, “Below the Heavens” pairs Blu with producer Exile on the Sound in Color imprint. His first single, “Narrow Path” has rocked stages across the world, as fans begin to feel the impact of Blu’s music. His delivery flows flawlessly, while the content reflects the joy and pain of working class youth everywhere. Since the release of “Narrow Path,” Blu has performed alongside Slum Village, X-Clan, Platinum Pied Pipers, Lyrics Born, DJ Houseshoes, and many others, while participating in 3 high-profile nationwide tours alongside musical family members: Ta’Raach, Aloe Blacc, and Exile. The buzz has fans salivating for new music. Worldwide, people are looking to put hope into the ‘next’ emcee that will give them the same feeling when they first heard Black Thought, Common, or Slum Village. Blu fulfills this need, but maintains something that is entirely new, while not recycled.

Wu-Tang Clan’s own Cappadonna connects with acclaimed producer Stu Bangas for a lyrically potent, sonically raw new album, 3rd Chamber Grail Bars. The album follows strong 2021 releases from both artists, Donna’s Black Tarrzann and Stu’s Deathwish, and it represents the emcee’s first full-length collaboration with a single producer. The result is a tight, cohesive listen full of sharp verses, neck-snapping instrumentals, and some stellar guest features.

The two first worked together on the Wu rapper’s 2013 album, Eyrth, Wynd & Fyre, when Stu produced a pair of notable cuts (“We Hood Rich Now” and “Chains”). “I knew that he was feeling the beats,” Stu said. “And I saw an opportunity to reach out to him and took it.” They reconnected via industry A&R, M-Eighty, who provided Donna with a folder of instrumentals from the producer. And for the emcee, the timing was perfect because of how the beats “fit my mood and energy in the moment.”

The energy is one of a time-tested lyricist with a lot on his mind—and plenty of clever ways to get his point across. You can hear that on the piano-laced, eerie “Continuous Threat” with Planet Asia, as well as the straight-up dope “Tryna Survive” featuring ILL BILL. Both tracks showcase Donna’s gifts with the pen as well as his talents as a collaborator. Other standouts include the raucous “Bring It Out,” which also happens to be Stu’s favorite cut on the LP. “I love everything about it—the beat, the intro, the subject matter of the verses, the raw hook, all of it,” he explained.

As you’ll hear on the album, it’s clear that it was created not only for the love of the culture, but also out of mutual respect for the other artist. Stu referred to 3rd Chamber Grail Bars as “a life goal of mine that I have checked off,” while Donna had glowing praise for his collaborator. “Stu’s catalog may be as great, iIf not greater, than any producer I can name,” he said.

This album is a return to the collaborations of Moar with unreleased versions on vinyl and also rare tracks. You will find the boom bap flavor that he likes so much in his hip-hop productions and also some names familiar to the label Trad Vibe!
10 tracks with delicious flavors that will make you travel in time all produced by Moar and his faithful MPC & SP1200.

Following several tragedies in his personal life, New York rapper El Gant had a decision to make—face those losses head on or bury them deep within. Luckily for us, he chose the former. The result is O.S.L.O., the emcee’s most gripping and personal project yet. It’s also his most relatable, because it shows what we’re all capable of when we’re equipped with the right tools to cope and, in El Gant’s case, transform that tragedy into something powerful.

The album arrives nearly a decade after his previous solo effort, 2014’s great Beast Academy, and after several years spent touring and recording with his group, Jamo Gang, with Ras Kass and J57. Despite the highs associated with that time, El Gant also experienced major personal losses. In particular, he lost three close friends—The Last Original, Bones, and Jim Misa—all of whom had a major impact on his life and career. In fact, the album’s title, O.S.L.O., references the Last Original, because it’s an acronym for “Our Sun the Last Original.”

But it wouldn’t be an El Gant project without some straight-up dope hip-hop, too. Tracks like “Avirex (feat. Innocent? & King Magnetic)” and “Chromed Out (feat. Ras Kass & Planet Asia)” are absolute bangers filled with shape-shifting flows and crazy wordplay.

There’s a reason for these tonal shifts, too; El Gant didn’t want to simply create a linear album. “I want to take the listener on a few ups and downs, just like life does for most of us,” the emcee says. It’s those qualities that make O.S.L.O. so immediately satisfying, and why it’s his most accomplished work to date.

Your Old Droog has been releasing music at a remarkable pace lately, and he isn't showing any signs of slowing down, as the prolific Brooklyn emcee is back with the new album “YOD Wave”.

Featuring appearances by Mach-Hommy and Tha God Fahim, the collection is pure hip-hop euphoria, with Droog’s sophisticated rhymes levitating over soulful loops. “YOD Wave” is entirely produced by famed Montreal artist Nicholas Craven, who has worked with the likes of Roc Marciano, Westside Gunn, Conway, Boldy James, Styles P, and more.

With a smooth-as-butter flow, an entrancingly deep vocal tone, and an exceptional ear for production, Big Cheeko is one of the most exciting emcees to emerge from Atlanta in recent memory.

After several outstanding mixtapes and a number of high-profile collaborations, the talented artist is now unveiling his commercial debut "Block Barry White". The album is a smoked-out masterpiece, capturing the full reach of Big Cheeko’s creative firepower, and is executive produced by hip-hop folk hero Mach-Hommy. Throughout the collection, Big Cheeko's powerfully authentic rhymes are accompanied by slow-burning, soul-influenced production and hard-hitting percussion, with all beats provided by Matic Lee, an acclaimed producer who has worked with the likes of Tech N9ne, Krizz Kaliko, Rittz, Jarren Benton, and more. Sure to blast out of trunks far and wide, "Block Barry White" features appearances by Mach-Hommy, Smoke DZA, Styles P, and Devin The Dude.

Chicago-meets-Philly when Vic Spencer and Small Professor connect on Mudslide, the incredible new album from this pairing of raw talents. Coalmine Records is proud to share this project with the world, and it marks Small Pro’s third collaborative release on the label after he previously linked with Guilty Simpson and the late Sean Price.

For the producer, it was an exciting new opportunity to team up with an emcee who’s gruff-voiced, hilarious, and can out-rap anyone on the planet. “Plus, my past Coalmine projects have their own neo/prog-boom-bap vibe, and ‘Mudslide’ continues that particular sonic blueprint,” Small Pro said.

And for fans of that sound, you’re not going to find a better example of that sound than this album. It’s just as experimental as it is steeped in the traditions of rap thanks to Vic’s boundary-pushing rhymes and Small Pro’s immensely satisfying instrumentals.

Tracks like “Lil Jon’s Weed Stash,” “Ew McNasty’s Revenge,” and “Selfcare Welfare” marry psychedelic vibes with grounded and clever lyricism. Another immediate standout is the lead focus track “Pitfall Music,” which features a mean-mugging guest verse from Flee Lord with cuts supplied by acclaimed turntablist, DJ Revolution.

Mudslide will be available digitally, as well as on CD, cassette and vinyl in three configurations; classic black, brown w/ white color-in-color, and a limited Ghostly Brown vinyl edition.

The first AE Productions release of 2022 comes in the form of a 7” by J & Mo – otherwise known as J Man (of Cut Beetlez) and DJ Mo Money. Finnish DJ/producer duo who are in the midst of creating an album. To pre-empt the album release this lead off 7” serves as a taster of what is to come - a mix of well-crafted vocal and instrumental Hip Hop tracks with some great guest MC’s.
The main cut here ‘Rhymes Be Bomb’ features Emcee G Roc Gayle (of The Vibe Drops/Piece Of Mind), and is a perfect example of a track that works on 45 for DJ’s with a nice bouncing groove, excellent turntable work and good vocals that are clean so great for radio play.
The flipside ‘Pelottaa’ (Finnish for frightened) is exclusive to this 7” but is an indication of the flavour of the instrumental tracks that appear on the album and features J Man’s fellow Cut Beetle HP Lovescratch on the vanishingly rare vinyl appearance of human beatbox.
Sleeve design and direction by Mr Krum references a vintage board game with superb results by replacing the bombs with microphones which takes the theme of musical bombs and applies the same metaphor to the artwork.

The Maltese machine funk specialist himself Keith Farrugia is back once more with yet more of his impeccable electro business as Sound Synthesis. This time the prolific producer is shoring up on Burnski's Infiltrate label with four cool and deadly cuts which build on his previous drops for 20:20 Vision, Furthur Electronix, Orbital Mechanics and more besides. From the nervy sci-fi flex of 'Motor Space Maps' to the playful fun n' games of 'Back In Time', Farrugia knows exactly what he's doing within the electro blueprint, and his tracks are reliably punchy warm - a true master at work.

In the Beginning (Vol. 2) continues the treasure trove of the early works of Declaime & Madlib, the longtime collaborators who helped usher in a new sound and style from the city of Oxnard, Calif. This collection is brimming with previously unheard tracks from this beyond-creative duo that blends hip-hop with funk, jazz, soul, and psychedelia to lay the groundwork for so many other emcees and producers.

For Declaime (a/k/a Dudley Perkins), this series serves as a way to honor his friends and the city that raised them. He shouts out names like The Almighty Metaphor (aka MED), Oh No the Disrupt, DJ Romes, Kazi, and more, who he says “created a lane for the city of Oxnard to get the recognition it deserves.” Some of them make an appearance in one form or another on this collection, too—Romes, for example, mastered the project—that compiles 10 previously lost tracks that were recorded from 1993 to ‘96.

In The Beginning (Vol. 2) is entirely produced by Madlib, who provided all the cuts as well. His instrumentals are on that raw and dusty vibe as they move freely through genres and sounds, like on standout cuts “Bandwagon,”WLIX,” and “Signs (feat. Wildchild).” Those are all highlights for Declaime, too, and they demonstrate his ability to blend his observations of the world with bravado and third-eye insights. Even as young kids just getting their feet wet in the studio, these two were firmly on their path.

The inspired pairing of Oxnard, CA producer/emcee/DJ Body Bag Ben and DC-based emcee/producer J Scienide resulted in this stellar, dark joint, ‘Enough To Plague a Saint.’ “To me, the soundscape of the album has a nostalgic feel to it… like it was crafted in the ‘90s in a basement somewhere,” says Ben. “This was the sound I was going for, lots of low ends and filtered drums. I knew J was the perfect candidate for this.” Longtime friends going back to Scienide’s work on Body Bag Ben’s first album (‘The Season’), here we see J on mic duties with Ben on production, joined by guests Rome Streetz, Napoleon Da Legend, Rasheed Chappell, and Wordsworth.

Sadat X (Brand Nubian) and A.G. (D.I.T.C.) collab for this superhero single, “Adventures of X-Man & Andre the Giant” with production supplied by Grant Parks (KRS-One, Pharoahe Monch, Rhymefest). The legendary emcees take the persona of superheroes coming to a neighborhood near you, saving those who fall victim to evil villains.

This standout will be available on 7” vinyl in a splatter configuration as part of a bundle that includes a 24 page comic along w/ an 11” x 17” poster, edited and illustrated by Wayne Sutphin of Xero Hour Studios and Jabaar Brown of Underground Comixxx.

The release date for this collector’s treasure is set for May 20th, where the single will also be available through all major digital retailers and streaming platforms. Pre-orders are available now and can be purchased via FatBeats courtesy of Coal Mine Music.

-This eye catching bundle is limited to just 500 copies worldwide and is a must-have for both vinyl and comic collectors.
-The 7” is pressed in a green with red splatter/color-in-color configuration, equipped with an illustrated jacket.
-Both artists will be actively promoting this release through their social media profiles.

NYC-based producer Endemic Emerald is proud to
present the release of his 3rd album entitled “The
Virux”. Featuring such renowned emcees as
General Steele, Chris Rivers, Sadat X, Planet Asia,
Tragedy Khadafi, Ruste Juxx, Rim & Royal Flush
- to name but a few - the set is packed with high
class talent embedded in electrifying soundscapes.
Endemic, known for producing outstanding
compilation records Terminal illness 1 & 2 once
again does not disappoint with this offering, which
comprises a cohesive selection of epic, yet gritty
east coast bangers. Collaborating with a
combination of legendary and upcoming rappers
“The Virux” has that classic feel from beginning to
end, ensuring it to become an underground
favourite.

PRESSED ON MAROON-COLORED VINYL

The third instalment of “Speshal Blends” instrumental series includes
ten sought-after beats culled from Spesh’s own 6 Shots: Overkill EP,
Che Noir’s Juno album, 1000Words’ compilation, and the Army of
Trust II compilation. This collection further proves that on top of
being one of the nicest emcees on the mic, Spesh is also one of the
illest producers in the game. The cover continues the series’ trend of
tributing the cigar brands most popular for rolling blunts. This time
around Dutch Masters’ packaging gets flipped.

RARE RECORDINGS BY SEMINAL HIP_HOP GROUP TUFF CREW - This record is a double album vinyl set w/ unreleased bonus material/tracks. - Tuff Crew is known throughout the world as Philly's first Rap super group. They've toured extensively with some of the biggest names in Rap music such as Public Enemy, Run-DMC, Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, Rob Base and LL Cool J. The response to Tuff Crew's music has been nothing short of stellar. On a national level, their single "My Parta Town" peaked at #23 on the Billboard Rap charts, while their album Back to Wreck Shop reached #74 on the Billboard R&B album charts. Estimates of Tuff Crew's global sales are in excess of three million units. Tuff Crew's body of work has resulted in a dedicated legion of fans across the world and their DJ Too Tuff has been the recipient of various accolades throughout his career. DJ Z-Trip advised that the technique of DJ Too Tuff inspired him to be a scratch DJ. Three time global DMC scratch champion DJ Q-Bert also notes Too Tuff as one of his inspirations. And A-Trak, Kanye West's DJ, has also voiced his adoration of the turntable techniques of DJ Too Tuff. Although Tuff Crew made an incredible mark on the musical landscape, they unfortunately fell victim to bad management and infighting. It was during this time period that DJ Too Tuff, the man behind legendary Tuff Crew sound, gathered the finest of Philly's underground MC's and began work on a solo project. The new Tuff Crew album, containing the finest of DJ Too Tuff's solo work, is entitled DJ Too Tuff's Lost Archives. DJ Too Tuff's Lost Archives will be highly sought after, and is destined to become an instant collector's item. For fans of of Eric B and Rakim, Public Enemy, Ultramagnetic MC's, Run DMC and Wu-Tang Clan, this record is not to be missed.

Building on his already impressive resume, DJ Kay Slay returns to set the streets ablaze with his latest offering, Accolades. Featuring the next installment in the highly-acclaimed posse cut series, Rolling Deep, DJ Kay Slay blesses listeners with the ultimate version, Rolling 110 Deep, containing over 40 minutes of pure bars from some of hip-hop royalty, including Sheek Louch, Styles P, Dave East, Crooked I, Black Thought, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah and many more. Other standouts include 72 Bar Assasin (feat. The Game), Extravagant Lifestyle (feat. Raekwon, Sheek Louch, Ghostface Killag & Tragedy Khadafi), & Harlem Block Money (feat. Dave East, Vado, Jim Jones, Shoota 93 & Talkit Trigga)

With vivid flows that radiate effortless complexity, Detroit rapper Elzhi is among the most masterful lyricists on the planet. The gifted emcee rose to fame as the youngest member of legendary group Slum Village, but has since graduated from prodigy to sensei, with a thriving solo career bolstered by several acclaimed projects, plus memorable collaborations with artists like Westside Gunn, Royce Da 5’9”, Ghostface Killah, Conway, Danny Brown, Little Brother, and many more.

Georgia Anne Muldrow is a supremely talented musician, producer, and vocalist whose eclectic work blends elements of jazz, hip-hop, funk, soul, rock, and beyond. The prolific artist has released more than 20 albums, earned a Grammy nomination without a major label, and worked with the likes of Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Madlib, Bilal, Kool G Rap, Robert Glasper, and more.

Now, Elzhi and Georgia Anne Muldrow are joining forces for the collaborative album "Zhigeist". A carefully crafted mix of psychedelic instrumentation and whirlwind lyricism, the project is entirely produced by Georgia, who also contributes vocals on several tracks. An inspired fusion of styles and textures, Zhigeist is an aesthetic triumph infused with an undeniable message.

Among the greatest lyricists hip-hop has ever seen, Gift Of Gab was one half of iconic duo Blackalicious, and inspired countless listeners before his untimely passing in 2021. As the last project Gab released commercially during his lifetime, "Rejoice! Rappers Are Rapping Again!" is an important contribution to the famed emcee’s extraordinary discography. Originally released on digital outlets in 2018, the 8-track EP is a triumphant celebration of lyricism as an art form, bursting with whirlwind flows and dazzling wordplay.

Now, "Rejoice! Rappers Are Rapping Again!" is available on vinyl for the first time. Featuring memorable appearances from R.A. The Rugged Man and A-F-R-O on the standout single “Freedom Form Flowing”, the collection is a compelling reminder that even toward the end of his life, Gift Of Gab remained at the peak of his powers.

Atlanta emcee Tha God Fahim remains a true outlier, releasing new music at a remarkable pace without sacrificing depth or quality. Recently, the talented artist linked with Montreal producer Nicholas Craven for two masterful new EPs within the span of a month, drawing widespread praise in the process. Now, both volumes of "Dump Gawd: Shot Clock King" are available in one physical release. Featuring guest vocals from Your Old Droog, this two-part collection unites powerful creative forces, with Fahim weaving consistently inventive street parables over Craven’s cinematic, soul-drenched production.

It's pressed on red transparent recycled vinyl.

The feel good song "Everytime" from the album "Serendipity" by Lisa Decker & Japanese Jazz trio Nautilus gets the Pat Van Dyke treatment plus a special appearance by South Bronx born emcee John Robinson aka Lil Sci of the legendary east coast group ScienZ of Life who performed with the likes of The Roots, Common, Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Run DMC and MF DOOM to name a few.

Multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Pat Van Dyke from New Jersey is giving the song a totally new direction with playful horns and heavy bassline to get the soundsystems bumping.

Omowale is the powerful new album from Wildchild, one third of the legendary Lootpack crew and a formidable solo artist who released many projects on the iconic Stones Throw Records. Across the 15 tracks, the Cali rapper deftly explores what it means to be a Black man in the U.S. today with timely, poignant lyrics. It’s a hard-hitting look at this country and its decades of wrongdoing, all with an air of optimism for the future. This album is Wildchild’s first solo release since 2016’s T.G.I.F., though he’s clearly kept busy in the interim by working on Omowale and making a number of standout guest appearances. Many of his past collaborators are returning the favor, as we’re treated to dope features from Posdnuos (of De La Soul), Big Daddy Kane, Guilty Simpson, Ras Kass, Murs, and more. Plus, there’s head-nodding production from Madlib, Nottz, Georgia Anne Muldrow, and Mr. Brady, among others. They’re all bringing their A-game on Omowale, an impeccably produced album beyond its instrumentation and rhymes. Wildchild builds on the project’s narrative by incorporating audio from newscasts, protests, and other live events. He also brings that real-world feel to his lyrics, from joyful raps with his son (Black-ish actor/emcee Miles Brown) on the funky “G.O.A.T.” to raw rhymes about police brutality on “Breathe.”
When the album culminates with “Say Their Name”—a moving tribute to the rap legends we’ve lost over the years—Wildchild proves on Omowale that you can balance hope with the harsh, unjust realities of the world.

* Limited edition Vinyl release presented in full colour sleeve.
* Mozey boasts a catalogue of releases on the likes of Bingo Beats, Emcee Recordings, Souped Up, Serial Killaz and many more top shelf imprints. Shady Novelle features on both tracks having previously linked up with Mozey on his recent Hospital Records cameo.
* Dynamite MC features on 'Midnight Called', an artist who has collaborated with a variety of world class artists including the likes of Tiesto, Andy C, DJ Zinc, DJ Marky, The Scratch Perverts and more.
* 'Make Beleive' is a collaberation with L-Side who's coming fresh off the release of his Canral Mind Remixed project featuring Break, Spirit, Dogger & Mindstate & Alibi.
* A huge two track single that has great club and radio potential.

From his early days in 90s collective KMD to his reinvention as a masked supervillain leading the indie hip-hop revolution, MF DOOM has consistently pushed the boundaries of hip-hop in new and unexpected directions. While DOOM's lyrical genius is well documented, he has quietly become an important figure behind the boards as well. DOOM has always produced his own music, and in the early 2000s he released the acclaimed ten-part Special Herbs instrumental series, introducing the world to the dusty, lo-fi loops that define his production aesthetic. In the years since, DOOM has supplied soundscapes for Ghostface Killah's classic Fishscale album, produced an entire album for Masta Ace, and witnessed a new generation of emcees (including Joey Bada$$, Capital STEEZ, and Bishop Nehru) using Special Herbs beats on their breakthrough mixtapes. Now, the villain is putting the spotlight back on his production with the official vinyl release of Special Blends, Vol. 1 & 2. Originally self-released in extremely limited quantities back in 2004, Special Blends Vol. 1 & 2 pairs vintage DOOM-produced Special Herbs instrumentals with classic hip-hop and R&B vocals. Mixed by DOOM himself, this collection incorporates vocals from a wide range of iconic records. Special Blends Vol. 1 & 2 is available in standard 2XLP vinyl format, as well as a deluxe version inside a custom-printed burlap bag.

Hip-Hop lost one of its most talented wordsmiths when Fred The Godson passed away due to complications with COVID-19 last year. However, his family has continued his legacy by launching the nonprofit Fred The Godson Foundation, as well as releasing some of his most sought-after music on vinyl and CD. Ascension is the first posthumous release with all new material from the South Bronx emcee. The tracks were handpicked by Fred's brother Russ and they are a prime example of the creative high he was on just before his passing. The collection of songs includes production from The Heatmakerz and guest spots from G Mims, Guap Sinatra, M City, Reef Hustle, Bandz Dinero and more. This album is a celebration of Fred's life and so, fittingly, the LP dropped digitally on his birthday, February 22. On the same day, New York City officials unveiled a new street name in the South Bronx honoring the respected lyricist: Fredrick "Fred The Godson" Thomas Way. A lot of artists make street music, but only a handful have ever received a tribute with street signs

A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 2 was created with hope and inspiration in mind. The spirit of the album was meant to emulate what a greater day would sound and feel like. We were in the midst of some tough political and socially challenging times. There was still hurt, anger and pain lingering, so I was thinking, “what is the next step in this revolution?” I thought about what being still in these times had brought me and that was a peace beyond understanding, a greater love for self, a closer connection with God, and more appreciation for my family, friends and the simple things in life. I wanted to write about that and create music that embodied that. What does a new day, a brighter day feel like being told through an emcee and some gifted musicians? How could this music be an example of the beautiful aspects of revolution that include joy, self-love, compassion, dreams, peace and good times? As a piece of art, I believe we took it to different places musically only to come back to the original intention. To bring joy to people’s hearts, fun to their lives and smiles to their souls. ABR2. Love Common RADIO: 6Music A List, Album Of The Week on 6Music, support across BBC R1, 1XTRA, Radio 2, 6Music. PRESS: Features in Huck, New Cue, DIY, Daily Star, The Guardian, Line Of Best Fit, MOKO, Clash, NME and more… “If ‘…Pt 1’ felt like a look at the progress we made last year, then this follow up stares down the road ahead – not with trepidation, but with boundless optimism” – DIY **** ‘A Beautiful Revolution, Pt. 2’ is the soundtrack to a new revolt. It’s about unity in the face of adversity and bringing awareness to the Black struggle. But at its core it’s a celebration of Black pride that sees Common in full swing as a champion of peace, love and freedom.” - NME “This is Common’s most hopeful album in years” – The Independent “A late career high” - Clash

Polish beats-wizard Emapea returns to Cold Busted for a quick double-shot of crucial dub and phat riddims. Released on 7-inch vinyl, Emapea’s new single celebrates the return of the good life with choice sounds for ‘zoning out’ in the global dancehall. “Same Old Same Old” occupies the A-side with a potent downtempo skank and an infectious sing-song vocal. The vibe is introspective and heady, as echoed percussion swirls through the soundsystem speakers. Flip the wax for “Drop the Bass,” a deeper dancefloor cut with a prominent boom-bap beat and bouncy bass line. Maximum dub pressure is exerted, with splashes of delay effects and rhythmic flourishes as an emcee gives “direction to the entire planet.” In the hands of a top selector, Emapea’s new tracks are ready to move the soul.

A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 2 was created with hope and inspiration in mind. The spirit of the album was meant to emulate what a greater day would sound and feel like. We were in the midst of some tough political and socially challenging times. There was still hurt, anger and pain lingering, so I was thinking, “what is the next step in this revolution?” I thought about what being still in these times had brought me and that was a peace beyond understanding, a greater love for self, a closer connection with God, and more appreciation for my family, friends and the simple things in life. I wanted to write about that and create music that embodied that. What does a new day, a brighter day feel like being told through an emcee and some gifted musicians? How could this music be an example of the beautiful aspects of revolution that include joy, self-love, compassion, dreams, peace and good times? As a piece of art, I believe we took it to different places musically only to come back to the original intention. To bring joy to people’s hearts, fun to their lives and smiles to their souls. ABR2. Love Common RADIO: 6Music A List, Album Of The Week on 6Music, support across BBC R1, 1XTRA, Radio 2, 6Music. PRESS: Features in Huck, New Cue, DIY, Daily Star, The Guardian, Line Of Best Fit, MOKO, Clash, NME and more… “If ‘…Pt 1’ felt like a look at the progress we made last year, then this follow up stares down the road ahead – not with trepidation, but with boundless optimism” – DIY **** ‘A Beautiful Revolution, Pt. 2’ is the soundtrack to a new revolt. It’s about unity in the face of adversity and bringing awareness to the Black struggle. But at its core it’s a celebration of Black pride that sees Common in full swing as a champion of peace, love and freedom.” - NME “This is Common’s most hopeful album in years” – The Independent “A late career high” - Clash

Briti$h is a UK-based artist carving out his own niche using a unique blend of original sounds. Growing up in Ipswich, Briti$h’s relationship with hip hop was strengthened when he moved to Florida, where he lived for 10 years. He became immersed in the music of famed Southern ambassadors such as UGK, Outkast, Scarface and Rick Ross, which went on to subliminally inform his music.

Back in Ipswich, a town that has long been a hotbed of Hip-Hop talent, Briti$h stepped right into the scene and never looked back. His style is impossible to pin down in any one area of Hip-Hop, instead offering a smorgasbord of styles with its roots laid down across the spectrum, from boom bap to trap, but always with a heavy focus on lyrics.

Briti$h’s debut EP, ‘Stuck in a Bunker’, was released in 2018. It delivered a solid introduction to his music, and enjoyed a warm reception from both his fans and peers. The EP was produced by label mate Bunker Beats, on Briti$h’s fledgling label DJGT Entertainment, and was all recorded at his Purple Loft Studios.

Briti$h was involved in a few notable collaborations with the likes of Emjam, Skribblez, El-Emcee, and Rye Shabby. He has also enjoyed airplay from BBC Introducing, the FATP Hip-Hop Show and Graffiti Kings Radio.

After being out of print for years, Atmosphere’s fifth studio album, You Can’t Imagine How Much Fun We’re Having, returns on vinyl. Following the breakthrough success of their four th album, Seven’s Travels, the group returned in 2005, showing impressive growth and inventiveness in their new compositions. Citing inspirations f rom a list of less-than-expected sources, including Tom Waits, Mark Lanegan, Shawn Phillips, Spoon, The Mars Volta, alopecia, Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, The Beauty Pill, infected wisdom teeth, Craig Finn, TV On The Radio, Australia and I-94 East, among others, the album pushed boundaries without over reaching.

“Atmosphere has never sounded as pointed and focused as it does here on its fifth album.” –Billboard [8 Oct 2005]

“Both a return to form and a major step forward.” –URB Magazine [Dec 2005, p.94]

“Producer Ant’s production is full and springy. Whether flipping operettas on ‘Say Hey There’ or dropping pianos from five floors up on ‘Musical Chairs’ he’s got sundry abilities.” –Pitchfork [3 Oct 2005]

“Ant has never captured Slug‘s pen strokes quite like this, and as an emcee and a songwriter, Slug has never sounded this good over the course of an LP. [You Can’t Imagine How Much Fun We’re Having] is absolutely their zenith, in every sense.” –HipHopDX [4 Oct 2005]

• Vinyl has been out of print for years.
• Written and performed by Slug. Produced by Ant.
• Features popular tracks “Smart Went Crazy”, “Pour Me Another”, and
“Little Man”.
• Vinyl packaging includes 12” gatefold jacket housing black double

On paper, a full collaborative album from Doom and space age production from Jneiro Jarel

can't fail. In practice it's even better. Doom is in the form of his life here. JJ produced all the

tracks, Doom provided the bulk of the vocals and compiled the cut and paste skits. Doom

recorded the album while 'banished' from the States and back living in london. He references

British culture throughout the album, name dropping British institutions, and possibly being

the first emcee to reference My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding. Jneiro recording the beats in the dirty

south, got into a UK state mind, and turned in heavy hip hop production that leans towards

grime, dubstep and British techno. The album will appeal to fans of classic Doom material.

JJ's tough, far out hip hop production will appeal to fans of Dilla, Flying Lotus and el-p. It also

features guest appearances from Beth Gibbons, Damon Albarn and Khujo (goodie mob).

Album artwork is by graffiti artist Steve Powers aka Espo.

A Wide ranging, eclectic and progressive musical outlook has always been the Lack of Afro approach. His latest material follows suit as he harnesses disparate musical styles ranging from funk, soul and hip-hop to create a contemporary yet vintage musical escapade of superb songs.


On his 4th studio album for Freestyle Records, the influences, sounds and musical textures are more eclectic than ever. Below, Adam talks us through some of the his favourite moments on 'Music For Adverts'.


First out of the box is the steaming funk killer Freedom: This time around I knew I didn't want an intro or a skit to start the album - I needed a strong, heavy opener - I had the melody for the chorus floating around in my head. It was then just a case of working with Jack Tyson - Charles on the rest of it and getting the vibe that the song required.


Long time Lack Of Afro collaborator Herbal T features on Brown Sugar: I had an idea of doing a disco track with an emcee on it, which you don't really hear often. This is actually the first time I've sung on a Lack of Afro track, adding my backing vocal warblings on the choruses! Special shout to George Cooper for the howlin' Hammond solo at the end too.


Of the gritty instrumental No Guts, No Glory Adam explains: I wanted to include 3 instrumentals as I always have a soft spot for them & it's what people know me for. The 'choir' was recorded by layering up my own voice in different octaves, nothing is auto-tuned, its all real. The studio allows me to do stuff like that but I could never sing live - I'll leave that to the proper vocalists.


'Proper vocalist' Jack Tyson - Charles again features on The Gypsy, which as Adam explains uses the classic song format to great effect: One of my favourite LOA tunes to date, Its in keeping with the album mission statement of wanting to write 'proper songs' instead of just grooves.

Take One is the cinematic debut release from the minds of Hampshire born emcee Deeflux and seminal producer Kraze. Created through a chaotic and turbulent life journey, the project was born out of the collective need to change direction musically by both artists.
The results are an accomplished and often brutally honest prose, overlaid across a wide range of soundscapes sca-ling the spectrum of alternative rap music. Themed around cinema, each track tells a story like a window into the ar-tists lives covering a range of topics and emotions with Deeflux’s trademark labyrinthine wordplay weaving effortlessly over Kraze’s diverse production.
The LP, originally intended as a mixtape and picked up and pressed by Broke Records was fraught with tragedy. From faulty metal work, lost livelihoods and the eventual loss of all stock it sadly never saw the proposed release until now. Certain Sound received a phone call out of the blue after the stock was
re discovered and have re packaged with the full intended “Directors Cut” as downloadable content in a limited run of coloured and heavy weight black vinyl.
Take your seats and enjoy the show! Artist Bio - Deeflux
Deeflux comes from a diverse musical background. After falling in love with heavy metal at 6 years old he spent his early years as a song writer and guitarist in ska, punk and metal bands before re discovering hip-hop in college where he used the college computers to start his journey beat making.
Finding his voice at 18 he began to craft his style. Influenced by his home town stable of graffiti writers, MCs and beatmakers. he went from working with Reklews (BLAH) to collaborating worldwide on projects such as Oddio Kin.
He has a number of physical releases with his group C O R N E R S (Deeflux, Beit Nun and Benny Diction), live group Natural Selection and last year released 52 singles with his long running DJ Miracle (Boot Records).

Kraze is somewhat of a musical prodigy. In his early teens he was at the epicentre of the first wave of grime and Began DJing on pirate radio & producing music. He eventually landed an artist development deal with EMI & later Sony/ATV.
He was responsible for Devlin’s standout London City and earned two cuts on
his Bud, Sweat and Beers album. During his time with EMI & Sony, he worked with producers such as Naughty-boy, Mojam & Stargate and a variety of artists before eventually leaving the industry to pursue other opportuni-ties. Take One will be his first solo release.

The longstanding DJ comes through with a brand new album for the modern times, keeping the tradition alive through a stacked tracklist of heavy hitters. With an extension of the popular posse cut, “Rolling 25 Deep,” DJ Kay Slay ups the ante with an 18 minute anthem, “Rolling 50 Deep,” featuring the likes of Benny The Butcher, Bun B, Styles P, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon and more. He further adds to his track record of pairing together artists for hit records with cuts from Ghostface Killah & Busta Rhymes, Conway the Machine & Sheek Louch, and Juicy J & Jim Jones.

On the heels of Spesh’s Interstate 38 album, Benny’s The Plugs I Met 2, and their joint drop of Trust The Sopranos, 38 Spesh is giving fans what they’ve been demanding, a new single with his day-one Benny The Butcher, Stash Box. Spesh handles production duties here and utilizes a sped-up vocal sample that gives the track an early 2000s vibe that is reminiscent of classic joints by Kanye and Dipset. Both emcees wax nostalgic about their come-ups and assert that they're still in the streets to this day. On the B-side of this 12" single is a non-album exclusive titled “Better Music”. This cut is only available on vinyl and cannot be found on digital or streaming sites. Benny and Spesh continue their historic run with this limited 12”. Upstate NY continues to impress.

Che Noir has been gaining momentum with each new release. Critics have hailed her as one of the best emcees of the new generation. However, her latest drop "After 12" announces her arrival as a producer. She provides the beats for all seven tracks, proving she's just as nice on the boards as she is on the mic. With the help of 38 Spesh, Ransom, RJ Payne, Sa-Roc, The Musalini, Jynx716, and Amber Simone, Che delivers a project that conveys what life is like after midnight on the block.

Two classics from the 18th letter god emcee.

Juga-Naut, a multi-talented artist, emcee, producer and chef with an international following. He creates every aspect of his music himself from concept to final product. He has gained major recognition with a prolific plethora of solid self released projects.
'Marble & Granite' is a gargantuan collaboration between Jugz & Jazz T. The sound is two mountains colliding with the classic Hip-Hop ethos and a modern flyness. The core of the track is sculpting beautiful art from the hardest materials, starting from scratch with raw talent, never stopping, constantly honing your craft to create a solid lasting legacy. Available on 7" vinyl with full colour artwork by Jugz and digital!