Take This Ride

My main man Bernie is putting forth a great effort to delve into the world of Hip-hop. As a true connoisseur of the genre, he offers a refreshing perspective on what to expect and what to respect. It's interesting to see the growing disparity between people who search for genuinely authentic Hip-Hop and the masses who subserviently bow to Hip-Pop. The recent releases of Jay-Z's The Blueprint III and Raekwon's Only Built 4 Cuban Linx Pt. 2 illustrate this dynamic well. True Hip-hop is what Take This Ride is all about, whether it be commercial or from the streets, Bernie has you locked down with some of the best commentary and writing you'll find on the fucking internet. After I finished reading the first preliminary posts I was ready to get M.O.B. tattooed across my neck. Hit up the link and enjoy.

I'm Still an Animal

But I'm still trying to make my mind up, am I free or am I tied up?

Criminology

Raekwon's much anticipated Only Built 4 Cuban Linx pt. 2 has lived up to expectations and beyond. Some Criminology as a tribute, the beat is militant.

Girls- Lust for Life

Girls have been getting a lot of press on blogs, I just picked up Album, and so far it's been a nice listen. "Lust for Life" is short and sweet, has a nice vibe though.

Gonna Stomp All Night

The new Julian Casablanca album Phrazes for the Young, is due out October 20th on RCA, and I'm excited to say it sounds pretty good. "11th Dimension" almost sounds like something Madonna could work with. Big 80s synths, a Daft Punk Guitar rift, and obscure lyrics makeup this heater .I'm down with anything the Strokes and their respective members do, so I think it's safe to say that Phrazes for the Young will be a nice additional to what should be a solid lineup of music this fall.

The Smith Westerns

The Smith Westerns self-titled debut invokes memories of T.Rex's Electric Warrior, but with a little less glam and a little more garage. Sifting through the fuzz and static-laden lyrics rewards the listener with really catchy hooks and rifts that get better with every repeat. Standouts include "The Boys Are Fine" and "Be My Girl", among many others. A really solid first outing. Check out myspace for some tracks.