Blu and Exile – Blu colla workers
LA rapper Blu was someone I discovered, and posted, last year. Now my relentless quest for new music has eased a little I took the time to revisit his music recently, and really enjoyed it.
This is taken from the 2007 album Below the heavens, which he made in collaboration with the producer Exile. It is typical of the hip hop that speaks to me – funky, energetic beats and clever rhymes delivered with playful yet languid style.
RjK
It sure doesn’t feel like the 1st day of May in London! I was greeted to a deluge of near biblical proportions this morning as I stepped out the door to work. Jackpot.
Giles Peterson’s played this on his 6music show on Saturday. He was interviewing legendary Nigerian afrobeat drummer Tony Allen, who features on the track.
It was a blast from the past as I listened to it a lot at university but had largely forgotten it. It is strange how only Europeans can get away with singing lyrics that are somewhat banal yet make them sound mystical!
Sébastien Tellier seems like an interesting cat. He went from producing this, which I happen to think is pretty great, to representing France in (the kitsch-fest known as) The Eurovision. This makes it a little tough for me to take him seriously. A little like Stevie Wonder syndrome, should sins in his later career diminish an earlier, great song? He does get plus points for his prodigious beard though.
/RjK
*Artist #433
Lambchop* – Up with people
This, from Nashville band Lambchop, is one of the most infectiously upbeat songs I can think of. It has an almost evangelical feel. I really like singer Kurt Wagner’s very distinctive voice which I think it adds a lot.
There is something about it that makes it a perfect spring tune, and it was typical UK spring weather in London today. Four seasons in the space of an hour!
It is taken from the Album Nixon, which I think explains the slightly odd video here.
RjK
*Artist #426
Napoleon – I love my baby (but if anyone touches her I’ll kill them)
Swedish band Napoleon were one of the very first that I posted at the start of last year. This was because they were favourites from 2009 and 10 when the blog was just an idea fermenting in my head.
I really like their energy and sense of fun. It is difficult to listen to them and not smile. This is taken from the wonderfully named Bohemians won the series and the little guy joined the band. The album title alone is enough to like them!
RjK
Vampire Weekend* – Oxford Comma
This jaunty, cerebral little number popped into my head last night for some unknown reason.
Vampire Weekend are so 2008! However, listening to this now I am filled with nostalgia for my university days. It’s actually a pretty catchy little tune, it hasn’t aged too badly. Interesting video here directed by Richard Ayoade.
Why would you speak to me that way?… All your diction dripping with disdain…
RjK
*Artist #419
Common featuring Slum Village – Thelonious
This is a gem off Common’s 2000 album Like water for chocolate. Whilst the lyrics are a little indelicate, the beat, from Slum Village’s J.Dilla, is simply irresistible.
RjK
This was one of the sounds of the year I spent in California. My roommate used to have it as the ringtone on his cell phone. Remember when downloading ring tones was a thing? Do people still do that?
It is a good track, now that I don’t hear it at least a couple of times a day I can finally appreciate it! The hook features Bilal, one of only a handful of modern soul artists that I think are worth a listen.
/RjK
*Artist #415
Sunshine Anderson* – Heard it all before
This is sassy. Plain and simple.
I am aware it is a little naff, however I heard it today and it made me think of happy school days before I knew any better. I am a real sucker for music from this era.
What were you thinking? Bringing her into our home, in our bed! You must have fell and bumped your head…
RjK
*Artist #409
Shola Ama* – You might need somebody
In a humorous moment on Saturday we got a taxi to the stadium before the game. I asked the driver if he had any music he could play. He said “no worries boss, look in the glove compartment”. I found a stash of CD’s – 9 of Pakistani music and the single version of this! An interesting selection to say the least.
It is a little saccharine but I have to confess all 4 of us were humming the tune until we heard Ireland’s call before the start of the game.
RjK
*artist #407
Fat Freddy’s Drop – Boondigga
New Zealand band Fat Freddy’s Drop are perfect Sunday night listening. Quiet, smooth and mellow they are a good remedy for a mind that’s racing.
This is taken from their most recent album Dr.Boondigga and the Big BW.
RjK