The Wow "LGNDRY"

We Define The Culture
The Wow
"LGNDRY"
10/21/2014

Let's lay the ground work for a split second so y'all can taste the sundae ethics and recipe. When I was a Sophomore in high school I lived in Orcutt, Ca. Hip-Hop became the number one priority in my life and everything Hip-Hop absorbed every ounce of time/energy. Living in a smaller town I gravitated toward finding cats that inspired me and struck a competitive aspect birthed via athletics. While feverishly researching local artists and new emcees to dissect I encountered a video of a cat walking through a local campus recording a remix to "Hey There Delilah", I was floored; it was raw as fuck. I started digging for anything and everything K.O. The Legend; I mimicked mannerisms, structured writing styles, and followed his tiered varying deliveries, I was hooked.  A multifaceted emcee/producer/fashion icon/futuristic mind the Kid is definitely Official.

Jump what feels a life time forward, albums released, productions placed, tours run, credits volumes long and skill Goliath built; "Who Is The Wow?" The Wow is a collective combination of the mad scientist Balt Getty and the graphite Bruce Lee K.O. precisely resuscitating   Hip-Hop chess move by chess move. The golden era feels dueled with hard hitting drum kits and bass that will clap an ass on the sidewalk from the whip; Balt is the real "Getty Center". These yuck face inducing productions dueled with a reincarnated Big Daddy Cane mixed with Big L Super Saiyan cracking beats lay the ground work to a Dubai style empire. The anticipation for LGNDRY was well felt throughout the blog scene and California Hip-Hop scene with the release of "Masterpiece" Ft Method Man.  It left one question "Who's the hottest right now? K.O./B.G. and we got it like....WOW."

LGNDRY is a long awaited firm bodied release from the duo as well as K.O. himself. With multiple mixtapes and projects running the web there is no lack of material or reference points. What we have here is another elevating step physically stating what words rarely do, POWER. Opening the album the primary track "BDK" is Reaganomics dope to the streets. Honestly, it's a throwback instrumental with conscious bars which still translate a radio wave swagged sensation.

"I'm the new empire check out my temperature, I get a check when I right down my signature. I'm not a lyricist I'm an adventurer, life is a bitch I caress every inch of her...It's that BDK; Big Daddy Cane in your CD-j. All hail Hip-Hop to the beat we pray, it's The Wow bitch go and get the EPK."

-K.O. "BDK"

It's stupid, seriously. The first four tracks alone could be a solid imprint to any artists resume which would allow them movement toward multiple definitive routes in the industry alone; yet they shrug eighteen tracks back to back to back. The lyricism/vocal articulation is definitely my favorite aspect of the album teamed with the respect done via the placements featured. Brandishing features from Method man of the "Wu-Tang Clan", Fatlip of "The Pharcyde", Prodigy of "Mobb Deep", and well known actor/emcee Realm Reality; The Wow pays homage.

It's a crucial era in modern Hip-hop where the fans are beginning to demand a new level of artistry which takes us back to the core fundamentals that founded the culture. The wave of beat heavy lifting tracks paired with catchy repetitive hooks is fading out and listeners are craving the raw music which echoes what the masses are feeling/living again. Listening to this project it had me shaking my head at the pin pointing taken; it's a patient masterpiece meticulously crafted.

"The edible kind that make you want to bite mine. You like mine? Then you can look down the price line and cop mine for nine-teen decimal nine, nine... If an emcee wants to battle me I have to penalize em."

-K.O. "Get Up"

The project spans leagues of depth in so many ways from; "Talk my shit" to "Whatcha need" to "Who are we" it's fucking well rounded!

"Whatcha need? More doctors, more painters, more teachers, more lovers, less haters. Being blamed by the rules they can't make us, so it doesn't matter what they saying they can't break us."

-K.O. "Whatcha Need"

There was a point in our modern music history where albums had everything; they vocalized almost every aspect of what we were experiencing. Listening to this project three times through I'm still catching new aspects of it, it's a damn Christopher Nolan film in auditory form. If you smoke, bang, swag out, are conscious, bump production, want to vibe out, or get deep, it's all covered.  The conceptualization of this project must have been a bitch, honestly! To piece together so many different production based tracks in a way that they are cohesive yet still fresh enough to grasp the listener and relay a new feel/message, it's dumb.
I remember the first time I unwrapped "Man on the moon" by Kid Cudi; it was in my system for a year straight. Since I purchased LGNDRY I haven't taken it off repeat, real talk. It's a labor intensive compilation of work created by Hip-Hop heads for the masses, I fuck with it heavy. I get so damn excited when elevated projects are released for the sheer fact it will cause other emcees/producers to feel insecure and dig deep to create real art. LGNDRY is definitely a must have and in my opinion one of the top projects dropped this year.

"I ain't got no nine to five and if I did I'd never show up...and I can't run home to my mom, cause she tells me I'm a failure. Cause I've been to jail more than one time for paraphernalia."

- K.O. "Who We Are"

So who is "The Wow"? The Wow is now, The Wow is the fusion of golden era ideals and modern era Hip-Hop, The Wow is LGNDRY.

"Don't give me props give me payment!"

-K.O. "Talk My Shit"

@WhoIsTheWow

Album "LGNDRY" Now on ITunes

-JP

W.D.T.C

We Define The Culture
"Head in the clouds, heart on the ground."
JP The Diesel
10/20/2014

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."

-Winston Churchill

      Our mothers and fathers have raised us up with the mental capacity and knowledge that we can be whom ever we wish to be and that success is at our fingertips in such a beautiful world. We have seen the barrage of glamour, glitz, stardom, beauty, and fame daily since our memories flicker with the new age of technology. What hasn't been ingrained in our constant adaptive skins is that we ourselves have to create this mindset we feel so entitled to. We may fall short to the bare essential tools and needs to reach said ideal; yet still blame outside factors. Your upbringing, status, stature, appearance, and financial offset are real factors indeed, but you are the true factor of your own success and happiness. 

Let's think.

       As an active member of the ever growing hip-hop community striving to be a multifaceted pawn in a kings world I see, feel, and understand the frustration that comes with being an artist striving for his/her place in the never ending gambit. Talent is a subtle addition to the toolbox of any growing seeker, it's a factor but not key. Understanding that this world is more than music, more than a following, and more than numbers is a huge key. What we learn over years of walking is not about foot steps; we learn about scars, cuts, scrapes, and terrain. Start to see your surroundings, your place, and what you can do for others as well as yourself. We as a whole seem to want to hear exactly what we feel we deserve yet steer away from the reciprocal which may grant a greater outcome.

       Take a look at yourself and reevaluate what you're doing, plus view what you are doing with your time and energy. At times we may feel that we are doing so much and it may be wasted energy toward an act or route that isn't going to grant an end result/product. For instance; I use to write two to three hours a day at coffee shops to stay sharpened and conditioned yet what was it for? Instead of creating pieces for distribution, reviews for viewers, blogs for sites, etc. I was writing to cater to my own needs. We as individuals have to strive toward the aspect life is not a grand movie made to star us, find your moments to lead, your moments to watch, and your moments to direct. Create positive realistic goals, routes, connections, and outcomes. Please do strive for more and always imagine your end game, but don't set yourself up for something out of reach. Creating ranges of goals will keep you energetic, hungry, and motivated every goal you meet will be a catalyst from small to large.

        The greatest aspect of life is simply living it and seeing that fruits you can bare and harvest, the hardest part of life is imagining one that is not yours. Daily we struggle with expectations made, seen, and imagined... why? We are individual beings which seem to blueprint ourselves off of the lives of others. I wonder if a shark envies an eagle or if a sardine envies a pigeon. ( think of that one ) There will be a day where your life and your grasp of reality clash, a beautiful collision of acceptance and clarity. Once you have this moment you'll begin to view through transparent eyes and I hope you see exactly it is you are here for. The equation is quite simple:

A + B + C = ME

A. What makes you happy; what job/career brings you joy while granting you financial security.

B. Who makes you happy; which people are positive catalysts in your life that will bring out the best you.

C. Is it enough; This is the tricky part, this is purely up to you.

-JP

W.D.T.C.

We Define The Culture
Lock Smith
"A Thousand Cuts"
10/10/1014

It has been said you can not conquer your surroundings and become whoever an individual is meant to be until one can truly make eye contact with oneself and love thy own image. "A Thousand Cuts" is a masterful saga of one man professing life through vernacular. Being cut is a common ideal we can all fathom since life cuts in many ways; verbally, physically, and emotionally. Some cuts go beyond the physical and leave more than scar tissue, these cut you in a way which reopens every time you see, smell, taste, hear, or feel the trigger of said laceration. Locksmith delivers an unconcealed raw self portrait through twelve tracks of precise artistry blanketed on motherly laid instrumentals granting the listener a moment to reflect on more than music, but oneself.

I found myself halting my finger strokes as I ways struck line after line by home hitting rawness which resounded through me like the first time sirens came to play red rover in front of your child hood home. The volley of emotion bouncing from tempo changes, subject matter shifts, tiered schemes, firm wordplay and deliveries which kept laddering up and down across the foundation of each beat had me lure caught and tongue tied. It's humbling listening to particular artists projects imagining how elated they must feel owning such a Goliath. You can say volumes in a matter of seconds; "The truth is I need some purpose, lord knows I'm not perfect... so where do we go now, don't wait for me now." 

My Mother use to profess ideals in my ears in magnitude, such so grand even if I failed her expectations I'd surpass my own. My Father use to lead by example, such examples so real I never reenacted them and some so necessary I mimic them daily. Locksmith writes, records, and delivers in a way we all can understand how he is actually feeling; it's a rare gift to be able to relate to an individual on such an organic level.

( It's real in a manufactured world )

The primary introduction I had to this album was the track "Hardest Song Ever", I'll pause here. 

"How do I take the rage, bury it deep inside

Cover it with a smile, but eventually it will rise

Eventually it will tie a knot in your soul and boast

Then you just end up hurting the people you love the most

Fuck it! I let it fly, nothing to set aside

It's nothing for me to lose, I'm already dead inside

Already said my peace a piece of me fled in spite

Let's set it right! This the hardest shit I'mma ever write"

The feeling residing in my gut, heart, and mind is the same I had when I first heard; Sage Francis's "Run Aways", Immortal Technique's "Dance With The Devil", Jedi Mind Trick's "Razor Blade Salvation", etc... I can scribe countless pieces of pristine art that cause you to feel, truly feel. A feeling you may not be okay with, but a feeling that is purely wholesome in the emotion it triggers; it cuts you. 

In a culture gearing our youth to flash rented, stolen, and bartered chains this project is truly a reflecting diamond. I can speak volumes of how each track made me feel and grant my own opinion on the subject matter granted to each man or woman whom presses play but why? Why speak on something that speaks for itself so well. "Jaded" says so much in such a short amount of time, it's the type of song you listen to over and over again and find new aspects of it every single time. This is the type of album I play while driving for hours and reorganize my life for what it is, beautifully painful.

"I am to diluted and lucid to notice, that my dad is really sick but he's lying so I can focus."

The brilliant aspect of this project is the continuous emphasis on word play, schemes, and tongue twisting deliveries that at a slower pace would be difficult yet Locksmith still ups the ante with pace. It leads through a complex  labyrinth of vocalization that power bombs you into "House Of Cards" ft. R.A. The Rugged Man. It's a tug of war of linguistic gymnastics which bounds, twists, turns, flips and sticks the landing without even the slightest twitch.

I feel as though I was granted an opportunity after listening to this project, honestly, It's the type of work I'm thankful for. To see someone bare all and create art at such a pure form is fundamentally lost in the greater scheme of things. We have a select few individuals who I feel are in tuned with themselves enough to make music for the masses without regard of walls and or critique and Locksmith has entered that subgroup for me. He has granted a piece of work that will take any listener to multiple times in their life; the good, the bad, and the ugly. Finalizing this project I'm humbled and grateful to stand tall and know I am cut.

@DaLockSmith

www.facebook.com/IAmLocksmith

"A Thousand Cuts" Buy now on all major music platforms.

-JP

W.D.T.C.

Zip Lock Music "Extra Grams"

We Define The Culture

Zip Lock Music Review

"Extra Grams"

10/9/2014

Zip Lock Music "extra grams"

https://ziplockmusic.bandcamp.com/

The lineage of west coast artists residing up and down the golden coast has been directly influenced by the life the individuals live and the relationships they have with the world around them. You do not merely tune in, you become tuned in. Zip Lock has their pulse to the concrete and their heat to the substance in more ways then one. Their recently released project "Extra Grams" is an in your face directive of what they are, where they are from, and what they are bringing to the world around them.

Creating raw grain work, with creative engineering, and bars with the backing of blunt force trauma; the feels are felt exactly as play is struck. The fusion of multiple vocal deliveries, precise ideology, and a no bullshit mentality it's cut and rolled tightly. "Salute to tha camp" & "We comin'" give you a first hand insight to what each member is addressing to the listener, group, and track; you're granted a translucent imagine of what you'll be receiving on a standard level.

Off the top, don't get confused that they're giving you a quick pin pointed sound though, it's tiered. Mixing genres and styles you can see that there's more strains to what's rapped. The transitioning from "Usual Suspects" to "Be free" leave you verbally assaulted and slammed to the ground aggressively to being uplifted and guided right back up.

"Trying to have a positive outlook but sick as I am it won't be long before I'm kicking a can...We ain't the usual suspects." -Digi

"Stop trying to be fly motha' fucka be free... free... free"

It's Pit bull terrier shook lines with the adaption of transfer students first day enrolled. Going from aggression,to inception, to perception, to expression there's a cohesive subject matter which is diverse enough to keep multiple demographics engaged and captivated. It pulls a listener back to the 90's when hip-hop/rap had real grimy cats who actually lived what they portrayed and at the same time gave you the knowledge that they also wanted to show you the human aspect of who they were teamed with what they wanted for themselves/peers. It's music you can drive to, get high to, fight to, and live life to all at the same time.

"Welcome to California it's the Motha' Fucking W." -Headake

"See Nothin" Is heavy set sound resounding with every bass hit. A west coast track you could slap down the block eject from the deck and put right back on in the party and crack a forty open to. An aggressive statement track not needing to say more than what it is; "You ain't see nothin."

"I rolled up like I'm late, like fuck it let em wait." - Prolix

Track to track while listening to the project myself and peers each had our own personal favorites, "Breathe" is mine. An off route slow tracked targeting personal insights which relate to many yet are individual at the same time. Simplicity in a complex manner; "Must be tripping myself out got to many thoughts in my head must be tripping myself out." The conceptual ideal that most problems which arise are blown to higher proportion due to our own minds fueling the mental fire smoldering, "Breathe" is an organic track which vocalizes life to many whom are stuck running a mental gambit which is created even more complex by the individual alone.

"All stressing, questioning on what I care about.... pray to God as he prepares the route."

-Feo

Transitioning from "Breathe" to "Let em' know" had me smiling, as simple as that. I had a coy smile across my face listening to creatively crude lines next to a unknown female in a coffee shop. I turned and told her I was writing for a hip-hop website and asked her if I could address her with a question, she approved."So I'm writing on a group and the line that just played was, "First name Jonathon... klonopin and E pills got her titties hot...and her booties more crooked than a city cop." She smiled and laughed a bit under her breath so I cut her off and said that was the perfect answer.

Over all from start to finish "Extra Grams" was eight tracks I listened through without thought of hitting the next button. A rugged mixture of music spanning from sub block to sub block, raw rap to hip hop.

*Side note these cats Digi and Sol killed me with these;

"Skinny dude with the abalone." -Digi

"Hoes with me in the video dance like Ol' Diddy." -Sol

www.facebook.com/ziplockmusic

www.ziplockmusic.bandcamp.com (FREE DOWNLOAD HERE)

-JP 

W.D.T.C.

We Define The Culture
Las Vegas
Tuesday Blend
9/2/2014

Hip Hop was alive and well in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    Brandishing the four elements to the T, Tuesday Blend at The Hard Rock Cafe on the world renowned Las Vegas strip was hip-hop encapsulated. Dance, apparel, art, and live music filled the three story building with an unparalleled energy which moved body to body. Sin city was glowing with raw and uncut as far as the soul could feel, the "blend" was real. 

     We've had the pleasure of knowing about "Tuesday Blend" here at W.D.T.C. for quite some time, yet we hadn't experienced it for ourselves. As soon as we entered it was apparent that this was not your ordinary stand and watch show case. From entrepreneurs selling merchandise, to dance crews killing each movement on and off the stage, to live performances, and organic conversations beyond the norm; Tuesday Blend does not disappoint. 

 No matter what your experience is in and around the genre of hip-hop and or rap, remember it is a large scale community working to better one another. The seem less fusion of choreography, to live performance, to djing, and hosting created a contagious environment fueling movement and peer satisfaction. Honestly if you haven't experienced this event for yourself and are in the Las Vegas area, seize the moment!

  Get familiar with all of the Tuesday Blend artists, staff, crew, and talent from the present, past, and future! Check them out @TuesdayBlend and make sure to keep up with all the raw and uncut coming from sin city!

-JP

W.D.T.C.

Rhyme Fest La: Noa James X Curtis King. "Flying with legends."

We Define The Culture
Rhyme Fest La 8/16/14
Noa James X Curtiss King

Flying with legends.

"The Inland Empire Strikes Back"

        Noa James and Curtiss King fly steady through turbulent heights in an era diluted by dissociated volume levels and misinterpreted clutter. Discovering their own way while molding the ground work to stand on brick by brick these men are truly orchestrating the foundation to an empire on the rise. 

       As humble fans on and off the stage we shot hip-hop theology back and fourth reminiscent of Will Ferrel and John C. Riley in "Step Brothers". (I'm not saying we've all become best friends... but I'm not NOT saying that.) While thumbing through mental files, memory vaults, and individual experiences; synopsises were firing. Moments such as these are the reason individuals like myself enjoy working events, besides the free snacks...obviously. \

       Standing outside of Fox Theater Pomona after another high energy set catered to the fans, the duo known as "Pterodactyl Jones" encapsulates what living in this industry is...work. "You have to be a pillar," states James, "You have to put in the hours and really work at it." Nothing in this industry is ever plainly given and the individuals whom truly understand this fact have begun paying it forward in the most organic way. "We started Common Grounds years ago for everyone, we had to protect what was around us." Creating a plethora of outlets for artists at every level they've persistently made strides forward while building a base that not only believes and supports them, they know them. "We went to this birthday party, it wasn't a big deal, but it was." It's more than music now and days in an era dealing with the decline of album sales, fan hesitation to purchase merchandise, and the waiting game for Goliath sized events to attend; true connections are priceless.

"Vanilla Coke right? There's all kinds of types of Coke now but you don't hate anyone for picking the other Coke over the original." - Curtiss King

     

Chopping verbal lumber which could clear an LA skyline sized opening in the middle of a South American rain forest; bold statements were apparent to me. "Hip-hop" is not any individual persons, there is not a guideline/definition to what "hip-hop" is, and Wrestling ring style ropes create pandemonium. (You'll understand some day) A specific dialogue between myself and Curtiss King hit home, it still stands out. Curtiss explained the layers to connecting to a fan base and the reality which occurs. The reality that when you create music expressing ones hardships and struggles you attract a certain follower. The crowd relating to that general music associates with it heavily yet isn't able to support the artist at all times and any music deviating from that particular avenue falls into the realm of "selling out". As a culture which quickly states which artists they "love" and which artists they "hate", it's wild to see how fast an individual can turn on said individual they love. Isn't love unconditional?

      "Imagine rappers as SIMS characters. You know the thing above their heads in SIMS? If that was a price tag, you'd be shock at the number it would need to be for certain rappers to sell out." - Curtiss King

       Immersing one's self around men and women who make a living off of music opens your eyes, it truly does. You start to see that every piece of merchandise, every second on stage, and every night out performing isn't a dream it's their life. That every crowd reaction fuels that passion burning within as a log on the fire of ones soul. The firm confirmation that every second, minute, hour, and year has been worth it. In a genre which still holds a negative stigma men and women are shining light through the darkness. In the heat of Southern California an empire is striking back.

Support Noa James, Curtiss King, and their whole camp here at:

www.bricktoyaface.com

D.I.Y. Music and Fashion Festival Saturday, August, 23rd!       

Rhyme Fest La 8/16/14

We Define The Culture
Rhyme Fest La 8/16/14



 Under the Fox Theater crown another Rhyme Fest event was soon to drop anchor. As artists, staff, and fans alike gathered for the festivities there was a subtle energy to the air around Garey ave. In bold black letters displayed "Rhyme Fest Hip Hop Festival" on the marquee and the line began to build. Gracing the stage was a who's who of artists from across the nation spanning decades of hip hop antiquity.  From west coast legends Hieroglyphics to East coast juggernauts like Sage Francis and Supernatural the line up was sure to satisfy any who set foot within the building.

     

Brandishing all four elements in unison from, to bboying, to live graffiti art and apparel Rhyme Fest was an exemplary mixture of hip-hop energy transferred in a infectious manner. As the building filled the most admirable aspect of the night in my eyes was the wealth of talent off the stage. Walking the floor I continually spotted lyrical heavy weights in their own rights supporting hip-hop and their peers alike. It's humbling to bump into individuals such as Ras Kass, Percy P, Sick Jacken, Poison Pen, Medusa, and many more! Even a wilder notion, they weren't even on the bill, that's a statement. Hats off to Rhyme Fest and all the individuals apart of another fruitful evening of hip-hop and culture.

      Starting the night the early bird fans were welcomed by the likes of: Rebels to the grain, CLDMKRS, Noa James, MC Juice, The Cloaks, and many guest appearances while interjecting a multifaceted showcase of more than just mc's rapping. "It's the main reason I like hip-hop shows you get to see how different guys perform and interact with a crowd," a fan said while Noa James was elevating the energy in the already buzzing building.  To me and my crew we love seeing artists on the rise perform for the shear fact they are hungry. You can see the hunger with every step, every vocal delivery, and every anxious movement across the stage; you can tell they live for the ebb and flow of energy exchanged from human being to human being.
   
Bouncing from crowd to lobby to back lot to merchandise tables I took a short moment to interview the humble/talented Lana Shae and always energetic Dj Nikon whom rock with LuckyIAm.

DJ NIKON

How do you feel about the ever changing ideals of the fans and the fact many are waiting for huge festivals and more young artists on the rise are trying to throw events which may not be as organized?

"Without those hungry promoters and young artists pushing at times their wouldn't be shows. Being creative is important man."

I've noticed y'all always do little things to set yourselves apart? I remember y'all let out balloons in SLO and you rocked a unicorn mask.

"Yeah, staying fresh and creative is important. At Northern lights we handed out cookies and joints and that was a huge highlight for people."

LANA SHAE

You've been rocking with some heavy weights and seem very comfortable what have you learned about yourself and surroundings?

"I've been lucky and it's shown me a lot about myself. I'm creating my own sound and not holding back, I'm unrestricted. I'm working on a solo project that has no rules, it's me." (Look out for R.A.P.S. by Lana Shae)

      Lana gave me a raw back and fourth explaining her insights and perspective. I asked her about her roots and music background and she let me know it runs in the family and that she has a wealth of skill sets she's excited to showcase in her music. I'm excited to see what she has coming up next, it's awesome to see humble artists who are tirelessly crafting project in an artful manner.

    Wrapping up my wonderful time with Lana I shoot to the back to line up a dialogue with Noa James. This ended up being a three part epic between myself, Lesa, Noa, and Curtis which had me so juiced I may have missed a few sets and laced a whole secondary write up off of it. I mean straight up, certain artists surpass my expectations at times and I can't help but want to set up a never ending back and fourth. It's those "long road trip" talks but we were back side stage entrance sweating in the humid night air. Once we chopped enough verbal ingredients to cook a six course meal we signed the check and dipped.

      After chopping it up with The Brick To Ya Face family I walked in for Supernaturals set. Now I've been a Supernat fan for years! I mean real deal I've been studying his freestyle delivery like that of an opponents martial arts style! He's a multiple degree black belt, bar to bar! He delivers off the top verbiage on the mic with a fevered ruggedness that is quick, abrasive, and down right ridiculous at times. Grabbing a nearby fans phone which is clearly recording Supernat buck shots out "I don't fuck with Lil Wayne I don't fuck with 2Chainz I meant this, Instagram that shit and hash tag Supernat said it" all off the top mind you. My face had "OH SHIT" blasted all over it, and the crowd reacted as Nat knew they would, wild. Know if you like and or dislike Lil Wayne or 2Chainz isn't even the meat to this ceremonial flavor for ya ear, the fact you know that shit was fucking raw is what matters. honestly fuck all the bullshit, when you see dope you see DOPE! From layered freestyle and fundamental emceeing to a classic Supernat stage show of "The Three emcee's" the crowd was on their heels. If it's your first, fourth, or tenth time seeing Supernatural it's like putting bacon on food, it never gets old and it's damn good. I had a moment when Supernatural was addressing the current state our country is in before he performed "sunshine" when I looked left and saw Medusa eyes locked on the stage, it was a had to be there moment I won't forget.

    Follow the dismembering of the microphone that just occurred I began asking fans how they felt about the fact Craig G and Supernatural shared the same stage tonight and how dope that is in the hip-hop sense. Let's just say I was saddened by the fact I was the only one who was moved by the act..what the fuck man..where's Bobito when I need him?

     Moving from crowd to lobby and smirking cause I love the fact every show I catch Luck and Lana at they're knee deep in conversations with the fans at their merch table I organize some notes near the live art. A wall blast freshly sprayed, displayed, and blazed was glistening in the back alley lighting, it's hip hop. literally. As masses were squeezing in from place to place I took in the diverse scenery of art, individuals, and surroundings and couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. It's dope to see so many diverse aspects gathered for a common cause which is hip-hop to me.

 
Cutting back to the press area I notice the B side homies, Sick Jacken, Poison Pen, and some other individuals chopping, I didn't even know they were going to be here. That's tight. The nights starting to hit prime hours and Chino XL is on stage gassing on the night before Sage goes on. Sage Francis in my eyes is one of the best to scribe a song, on my cat. Chino connects with the crowd and finishes up his word weighted gambit before strolling off. As the time starts to approach Sage's set I walk into the side stage area to view the SFR captains set. Clad in his usual Sage like attire, a SFR flag cape, wig, and ball cap I hear one of my favorite intros cue on. "Escape Artist" is a layered vocal performance with bar after bar of structured composition followed by "Sea Lion" from the album "Human the Death Dance". After these two pieces "Makeshift Patriot" roared on and hands began to slam up and down in the air across the floor. This was one of my favorite Sage performances I've seen and the cherry on top was finalizing his set with Scoobius Pip.

   The night advanced as it should in a progressive climactic fashion from artist to artist which kept everyone involved energetic and gratified. Gracing the stage  next we had Slum Village as well as the in house members of Hieroglyphics and Souls of Mischief, it was a pleasure. Heads knocked, arms rocked, and fans mouthed lyrics they've known for years. It's a remarkable feeling to see an individual view an aspect of their life in the physical form, this was occurring in rapid fashion. From face to face the glows of fans became an aura. Every other beat was the catalyst for organic reaction, Honestly when "Shape Shift" dropped I gigged like it was Christmas Eve and all year I was a fucking nun. Overall Rhyme Fest LA was an event that stayed true to not only hip-hop and the necessary elements, but to the fans as well.

-JP

We Define The Culture.

We Define The Culture
Post 4 "Chin up"

    I live for the night time, I tilt my head as far back as I can and I align my chin with the heavens. I live for the deepest darkest sight to fill my eyes, maybe I can dream as vast as the sky is far off and away. Every second we imagine a life we are not living as if it will be "better". Every day we damn what we have for what we imagine. I dream as if  I'll change the world by never ever changing myself, I dream as a fool.

   If I could imagine the sky as a blanket I'd wrap myself up tighter than any pair of sneakers my mother tied tightly to keep me from leaving home.
If I could imagine each star as a freckle mapping the road less traveled of failure, aspirations, loss, and gain along my body...we'd have a journey. If I could wade in the water-less realm of meteorites, black holes, and abysses I'd begin to dream of being back home. Do you see the gambit? Do you see the hedges for what they are or are you lost in the fact it's a maze? Open your mind wider than your eyes and listen deeper than your ear drums can beat to the flow of your heart. On the higher plain live. Please, live.

       A wise man once told me to find out what I'm living for and once I do I'll be happy. Now the wild nature of such a statement is what is "happiness" and what is "living"? Over the years I've come to a consciousness which has granted a different type of view, a simpler way. Life is merely what we do, speak, and act; life is everything we are. To say something or someone grants you life and or purpose which parallels happiness is false. Your goal in life may be as small as a lady bugs wing or as large as the Atlantic Ridge, yet the size is not the issue.

     To fly one must merely come to terms with falling, You do not need wings of any sorts but the acceptance of any collapse. Life, dreams, flight, destination, fulfillment, these are all self sustainable accomplishments. Within yourself you hold any and every key needed to unlock the doors which hold you back from being the supreme individual you are meant to be. Breathe deep and know that. We are all dreamers fighting the act of falling asleep, dying for a moment to rest. We are all children craving the acceptance of mother earth and father time. We are all the same in so many different ways, and this is the beauty of our existence.

    I live for the day time, I shield my eyes from the overwhelming brightness that I fear I won't ever align to. I life for the brightest light to barrage my eyes, maybe I can dream as tempered as the sun is fiery and bold. Every second we imagine a life we are not living as if it will be "better". Every day we damn what we have for what we imagine. I dream as if  I'll change you, while never ever changing myself, I dream as a man.

Jp

We Define The Culture

 

"Hunger" Event Review; Friday 8/8/14 #DOI Tour NoHo

We Define The Culture

Event review #DOITOUR

      The foundation tier which holds hip-hop afloat has more hunger and passion than the higher tiers have accumulated fame and wealth. The sacrifices artists make to allow their dreams to take life even for five to ten minutes is an astonishing showcase of our culture striving to shed light in a dark, damp, shadow ominously towering over the forefront. Hidden in the back of Amp Studios NoHo in a 20X20 so odd sized practice room; creativity, tenacity, and a wholesome drive to foster talent was breathing heavily. Sardine packed among artists, associates, fans, and workers one common goal was being set. The common knowledge that action is a catalyst for growth was prevalent and well seen; no matter the size of progression organic movement shall be paved.

 "The funny thing about dreams is we all have them, we all see them, and we all want them. To many of us are to busy dreaming to actually grasp them though."  -We Define The Culture

     Walking down Lankershim with an iced espresso from Bob's cafe at 7:45P.M. was never on my original schedule, a spontaneous life always is. While on the clock I saw a flyer from Tim "First Dirt" Morales highlighting key notes for a hip-hop showcase.

< The guy cheesing front and center is Tim. 

       I've been here before many times, my old band use to practice in this very building, I walk in and skeptically ask: "Is there a Hip-Hop show in here tonight?" There surely was. In two hours I had the opportunity to watch and write on eleven acts! ELEVEN ACTS IN TWO HOURS, free might I add!

Honestly I was reserved when I stepped in the room and by the end of the night all reservations were set aside and I was glad I took the fifteen minute drive to see young men and women truly live. That's all it is really, individuals taking a short moment of time out of their normal routine to allow another man or women to live their dream... Isn't that a priceless act? Fostering an individuals deepest passion in my eyes is a valuable endeavor, I digress.

       7:50PM: 

     My primary entrance into "studio f" was met with a young man performing a heavy bass style club track with a repetitive vocal loop. 

"Drop low, drop it slow, where them big booties at?"

After looking around for them big booties I proceeded writing on the individual gracing the stage; "Yung Krazy Legz". A Chicago native who overcame the struggles of not being able to walk, stood tall. Clad in a King Tut tee, Louis V back-pack, sneakers, chain, and shades one would think differently than I did. I saw a man on stage who may not have been at the caliber of some of the other artists in the vicinity, yet I saw where he was and where others weren't. He earned his moment to showcase what he's passionate about and did so justly, that differentiates many.

    The next act to hit the stage strolled on with her two supporting vocalists in all black and neutral hues; calm, collected, and charismatic. As soon as her first instrumental dropped, I adjusted my footing and thought, "Yup, she's on one." A solid stage presence, with a contagious energy, "Tia P" controls herself and time properly. Brandishing a strong female manner like a Rah Digga or Da Brat in the 90's Tia P set the tone for the rest of the night. ( She can spit too, heavy!)

My only critique would be vocal delivery. At times her high energy would conflict with her verses due to breathing and or vocal strain. Definitely will be watching for more of her music and events in the near future.


     Following next was a young man by the name of "Marko Pave". As he waited for his cue to begin he seemed very comfortable, watching an individual on stage while they are not performing speaks volumes. His first song began with a solid piano based instrumental and he was off. Proper verse layering over the beat to elevate his delivery, stage movement, and crowd control. I was getting more and more excited for the night. Marko had a 2Chainz meets Trinidad James meets Big K.R.I.T. type of a style. (just imagine it, give me a break) As his set finished and the next performer began to set up, they asked Marko if he would perform another song, this was my favorite of all three. You can tell he's seasoned.

As Marko finished up at 8:18PM the next performer "Sloat Dixon" began to set up...Twenty minutes later, a giant banner, metal wash tub of some sorts, bull horn, and fur jacket, we're set. Demanding the crowd wasn't hyped enough he tinkered with some pedals while Danny Brown played in the background. Shutting off all the lights in the small performance room he began without lack of energy. Where he may falter in execution, Sloat Dixon definitely strives to fill his gaps with stage presence. Sloat carries a raspy yet strong voice and had great production throughout his set, the beats were dope. It was entertaining and definitely had me captivated throughout his time slot.

My critique would be not to cup the microphone, utilize his wealth of energy in a more controlled manner, and tighten the many tools he strives to use.

   After Sloat finished we had a duo from Las Vegas, I know one individuals name was "Bodega Jones" not sure of the second. They brought dope boy/hood dream music and vocalized tracks many relate to on a large scale, not my cup of tea but they were having a great time.  "I done touched so much work, I'm feeling a rush. We got that raw and uncut that's why they fucking with us."

9:10 hits and the tandem of Tim Morales and 60 East representing "First Dirt" hit the stage. They announced the backing behind the #DOITOUR and described the nine dates they've hit in the past few weeks.

"Supporting one another and creating our own environments as artists"
-Tim Morales

Their set was an influential, lyrical, story of their own life's and ideals. It was a mixture of music and meaning, needless to say I fuck with it heavy. Owning a solid vocal contrast on stage, a mixture of vocal deliveries, solid golden era style production, and crowd interaction you can see the time put in.

 "Got love for the art was born a poet." - 60 East

My only critique would be to have the microphones checked prior, yet even with technical difficulties they handled their time professionally.
    

      Once First Dirt wrapped up they introduced "Matisse Marie", GOOD LAWD. This petite, young female, in a wicker hat and shorts rained down like a hurricane. Honesty it was a sight to see, she owned her slot. I felt like marching and breaking down doors, seriously. Owning strong vocals to an almost slam poetry degree, Matisse performs with a message and a furry.

"Don't need a locksmith, keep my keys locked up."

                           "Feeling like a line wolf on this high cliff."

      She came on with a timid humble manner grabbed the microphone and stole every ones attention.

   Walking on right after Matisse was the Nor Cal native "J Styles". First reaction I saw was a slight hesitation, yet once the music began to play he zoned in. Utilizing crowd control he gave a solid performance in a structured manner. His vocals were tough to hear at times and he was stationary a bit, but he clearly held his own.

       I love watching artists who organically love to entertain, these two were having such a great time on stage I had to join in. "Tru Steez" from Fresno has a great energy and brings a party vibe to their set. I could definitely see them setting it off at a Bay event and giving the crowd a run for their money. Both have solid deliveries and dance through each track with some priceless facial expressions.

"We on two different levels my team is profound." - Tru Steez

My only critique would be getting a better feel for each others space on stage and utilizing one another to boost the primary emcee while he's on and vice versa.

"AuxILLaree" Is a duo from Oxnard out of a heavy throw back hip-hop head must have. live MPC beats which are savage by the way! With vocals which are reminiscent of B-Real mixed with Vinnie Paz. I've seen these cats before in Santa Maria and both times they've been solid. SK ILL on the MPC is a beast, some of the finger patterns he hits during their sets are technically dumb founding. High technical vocal deliveries, solid planned schemes, and no nonsense attitude, they handle and finish.


        As the night was coming to a close we still had more acts to see but time is never on the hip-hop side. The final two cats that were able to rock were an individual by the name of "Break" all the way from Tuscon, and a cat by the name of "MDS" or "Modern Day Soulja" from Santa Ana.  The beautiful thing is they didn't get upset or even dispute at all they were grateful for any amount of time they received and both displayed dope vocals.

        MDS came out with two accapella verses that were heavy. A clean delivery with layered lyricism, scheme, and slam quality to it he ended the night on a perfect note. Dictating a mixture of vocal imagery, bars, and poetry his accapellas were the cherry on top of the night.

    Now any night without a cypher of some sorts is not a hip-hop night I want to be apart of, and this night didn't falter. Out side of the area in the lobby to the beat of hands, feet, snaps, oooh's and ahhh's these guys showed what it's all about. In the end the greatest aspect of this culture is unifying like minded people for a greater cause while expressing ones self. There is a lack of events like this and it's a sad fact I might say. To many artists want sold out nights with hundreds of heads they forget what it's like to even have a REAL show.  It was a melting pot of hungry aspiring artists giving one-hundred percent to forty heads in a practice studio! Hip-hop survives because of the hungry, I hope you all eat well.

Jp

We Define the Culture.