Cool Albums for the Summer #2 Papadioso

My next selection for albums with that perfect summer sound is from a band who may be unknown to most of you. For the past 5 years, Papadosio has been creating conscious, mind expanding dance music that purposely defies classification.

There most recent album, Observations dropped back in 2009 but it's so worth a listen and they are currently touring the U.S to sold out shows. I had the awesome experience seeing them perform in LA at The Mint. There sound is a feel good journey into a variety of genres including rock, pop, and electronic an ideal mix for the summer. Enjoy one of my favorite tracks, All I Knew and let me know what you think.

Cool Albums for the Summer

 

Starting a new series featuring cool albums from a variety of genres that are perfect soundtracks for the summer. First up is Robert Glasper whose jazz infused with soul sound never disappoints and this track featuring Erykah Badu is proof. This entire album is great especially as summer arrives 

The LDub Experience Episode 20: Spaces & Places

Hello World! It's been a while but I'm back with a new mix featuring tracks from Osunlade, Marc Mac one of my favorite producers Koulz. What space and place are you in right now? Marinate on that while you enjoy this mix.

1. Marc Mac- The Dreamer
2. Black Coffee- JuJu
3. Bukola- Hypnotised
4. Four to the Floor- Nganga Speaks (Koulz Naked Mix)
5. Osunlade- Ser Al Santisimo
6. The Realm Ft. Choklate- I'll Let It

The LDub Experience Episode 19: L.O.S

Hello World! On this day we tend to think of receiving love (or tokens of love) from others. This mix is about loving the most important person in your life-You! Enjoy. L.O.S- Love Of Self

1. Moodorama-Nova Star
2. Fresh Moods- You Gone
3. Malena- No Me Digas Nada
4. Incognito- Love, Joy, Understanding (Tortured Soul Remix)
5. Bebel Gilberto- River Song
6. Peter Hadar- Sweat
7. Bassfort- The Street Is My World

The LDub Experience Mix 17: Round 1

Hello World! First mix of 2011 very excited to bring you a massive mix of Drum & Bass. It's dark, it's gritty, it's melodic, it's Round 1 reflective of my first few months in LA. LOL Round 2 coming soon. Enjoy!

Mix Listing
1. Tantrum Desire- A Legend Will Rise
2. Drumsound & Bassline Smith- Welcome to the Jungle
3. Pendulum- Water Colour
4. Jakes- Warface
5. Tantrum Desire-Dark Waters
6. Fresh-Talkbox
7. DJ Die & Interface Ft. William Cartwright- Bright Lights
8. Phil Tangent- Billie's Smiles
9. Art Official Intelligence- 3's A Crowd
10. Total Science- Redlines
11. Edward Oberon- Loveline

ATG Hot off the Press: "2gether" DJ Roger Sanchez & FEM

Interscope’s Far East Movement and Grammy Award-winning House DJ, Roger Sanchez’s official “2gether” music video is finally here!  Check out the video below.

Far East Movement and Roger Sanchez collaborate for their hit single “2gether” featuring Kanobby off Far East Movement’s debut album, Free Wired.  Watch as the guys stay “Free Wired” from the office to the club while bringing everyone "2gether" for a good time.  

ATG Interview with Preach Jacobs of Sounds Familar Records

 
Always on the look out for innovators in the music industry, I recently connected with Preach Jacobs of Sounds Familiar Records. Preach and the labels co founder Travis Bland are creating an Indy hotspot in the southeast and I couldn't wait to get the scoop.

1. Who are Preach Jacobs & Travis Bland?
We collectively are the founders of Sounds Familiar Records. I (Preach) have been everything from a journalist writing for over a dozen publications domestically and abroad to being an emcee. Travis has a band inspired by The Clash and we met while working together at a record store in Columbia, South Carolina called ‘Sounds Familiar’.

The store was in business for over 30 years and was one the last independent record store in the area. When we closed in 2009, I realized first hand how rare it is to find a store like that. Nowadays, there’s stores that happen to sell music and not music stores. It is our responsibility to keep it alive so we named our label after the store to pay homage.

2. At a time when many think the music industry is taking a nose dive, why was it important to start the label?
I think the music industry is suffering because the power structure has shifted dramatically. Labels can’t just throw money at a problem. We have to find new and innovative ways to get music to people. Instead of getting angry at the digital revolution, find ways to work with it. Our business strategy is based on that: limited/boutique physical product that we put in specialty markets. That way we have limited overhead and can focus on creative ways to get the music out there.

3. Misconceptions about the south and its contribution to the musical landscape?
It’s funny because I believe the south gets credit for everything except modern music (i.e. hip-hop). The south gets credit for birthing the blues and having impacts on jazz and soul music. The sound of the church and the jubilee choir. John Coltrane was born in North Carolina. So, we’ve always been deeply rooted in music.

I think when it comes to hip-hop; fifteen years ago rappers that we heard usually came from either New York or L.A. It felt like anything else was too far and in between. But when labels like LaFace put out Outkast and Goodie Mob, it meant so much to me. It made me recognize that we do have something to say. I’ve worked with Denz who lives in London, Marc Mac (of 4Hero) who’s also from London, and DJ Vadim from Russia. It proves that good music is good music. And shit, bad is bad. Doesn’t matter where it’s from. If there’s heart and soul in it, fuck it. Let’s give it a chance.

4. What new tracks, projects, ECT can we expect to hear from SFR in the coming weeks/months?
The first project being released on the label is my EP ‘Rebel Radio’ followed by a band we have called Sons of Young (punk inspired band). We also have a duo called Day Clean that consists of acoustic guitar and cello. These brothers are phenomenal. And we also have a producer named D that has a project with Baatin, Musinah, Guilty Simpson, Buff1 and more. Really good stuff to come. Next few months is going to be really dope.

5. Anything else you’d like readers to know?
If there’s anything check out the music. The label’s first release is my EP titled “Rebel Radio” with a producer Katrah-Quey. The first video off the album is for a track called,  “Falling” and if you believe in the music, support it. Even if it’s not actual sales, pass it along, write about it in your blog, tell a friend. That’s the new way to make it musically in today’s climate. Just love and support for everyone that believes in hearing something new and fresh. We appreciate it all.

I'm very excited about the music coming out of Sounds Familiar Records. This label and many others are keeping great music alive. Click the article title to check out the SF roster.

ATG Album Spotlight: The Sound of Rhythm & Culture

Title: The Sound Of Rhythm & Culture

Genre: Down Tempo

Label: Rhythm & Culture Music / ESL Music / Fontana

Release Date: Sept. 7th, 2010

DC based Rhythm & Culture Music recently released The Sounds of Rhythm Culture a 14 track compilation inspired by our culturally rich and musically diverse Nations capital. If you have ever visited Washington, DC you know exactly what I mean. The sights, sounds, food, people all represent what is unique and cool about the world we live in. Imagine the sounds of the islands infused with the middle east yea it's that cool!

The tracks have an air of sophistication while keeping it funky and would translate well in a club or mixer at your home. What I enjoy most is it takes you on a journey around the world without a passport, luggage or sunscreen.

According to the label, their goal was to harness sounds from around the world and challenge conceptions of what is considered dance music. Mission accomplished but I wouldn't expect anything less from the label's creator Farid Nouriad, Co founder Eighteenth Street Lounge and resident DJ and legendary DJ Thomas Blondet. Other artists on the mix include Second Sky, Nickodemous and Zeb all known for their distinct mix of sounds that run the musical and cultural landscape.

To listen, check out their website or iTunes and let me know your thoughts you won't be disappointed! There's also talk about a remix album so stay tuned. Check out one of my favorite tracks from the album, Havana 2am by Thomas Blondet.

The LDub Experience Episode 16: Voyager Golden Part 1&2

New mix from the LDub Experience: Voyager Golden Part 1 & 2! Long over due but sure to make you move. Tracks by Sirus, Nuspirit Helsinki, George Loops, Ron Trent, Miguel Migs and more. I created two mixes for a special reason click the title link to find out why!

ATG Artist Spotlight: Brother Aten

Check out my recent interview with the very talented and introspective writer/producer Brother Aten. His DnB track, Exploring Saturn without Wings was featured on The LDub Experience Episode 9: I Gotchu and I couldn't wait to learn more about him.

Brother Aten's music is thought provoking with an organic sensibility. He has a gift for creating music that draws you in and keeps you. A true star on the rise, Brother Aten holds down this month's ATG artist spotlight.

Name: Chris Mcwayne aka Brother Aten
Email: brotheraten@gmail.com
Current City/hometown: From the East Coast currently living in Greensboro, NC
Philosophy towards life: At the end of your life will you have satisfied the dreams of the person that lived it or will you accept the defeat of the one who sees its end.

ATG: Who is Brother Aten? BA: I am a electronic music producer that focuses mostly within the range of Drum and Bass, Brokenbeats, and Dubstep.  The name Brother Aten refers to the sun personified as a Brother to myself.  The origin of this concept comes from a graphic novel I began writing a year ago (2009).

ATG: What people, places and or things inspired you to pursue music as a career?
BA: When it comes to the world I try to see myself as an alchemist taking in the things I receive from outside and transforming them into something new.  Music is one of the avenues I release my tribute to what has inspired me.  I pursue music only because I want my sound and thoughts heard so that maybe they can inspire someone else.

ATG: Describe the Brother Aten sound?

BA: My sound is very dreamy and dark.  Hard stepping drums slice through haunting elements to create a symbol of how I feel inside.

ATG: Upcoming projects?

BA: I will be releasing a full length album in the near feature not sure when but soon. I am also teaming up with another great producer by the name of STLLR on some amazing projects.

ATG: 3 things you can't live without?

BA: At this stage in life I must sadly admit that they I can't live without chicken fried rice, a computer and my portable hard drive.

ATG: Favorite place on earth?

BA: Belize...almost 10 years strong it is still my image of perfection.

ATG: If readers want to learn more about you and hear your music where should they go?

BA: I am on soundcloud. www.soundcloud.com/brotheraten