The Urban Feed

–Tre Banks
The Urban Feed

The highly anticipated XXL Magazine’s Freshman Class has released, having become one of the biggest debates in the rap world and blogosphere, predicting the future Kings of Hip Hop. The esteemed top ten list has held names such as Lupe Fiasco, Asher Roth, Kid Cudi, Plies, Wale, and many other successful young artists. However, XXL has been very accurate with their list, and any artist that makes the cover/list has a very high chance of succeeding in the Rap game.

Jay Rock, Pill, Nipsey Hussle, Fashawn, Freddie Gibbs, Wiz Khalifa, J.Cole, Big Sean, Donnis, and the controversial OJ Da Juiceman, members of the new class were revealed one by one through video footage including freestyles displaying the talents of each artists, with the exception of OJ Da Juiceman. Although certain artists in the class have already grabbed a huge fan base, such as Wiz Khalifa, J. Cole, and Big Sean, OJ da Juiceman is also an artist whose fan base is already pretty wide his hit single, “Make The Trap Say Ay.”

Hosted by DJ Whoo Kid, “10 For Freshman ‘10″ gave each artist an opportunity to be heard, and hopefully spring an interest in fans to search for more of their music. Tracks placed on the mixtape by J. Cole and Big Sean seemed to be lazy records that had not been released because it wasn’t their best work. In which would be okay for these two artists, due to their already recognized talents. However, artists such as Pill and Donnis both proved that they have the potential to blow up in the near future. Nipsey Hussle who also has a pretty big fan base, displayed his raw West coast vibe that he is loved for. OJ Da Juiceman presented the mixtape with two very simple songs, so if your looking for lyricism, you may not want to listen to either of his tracks. As for the other artists, they presented teasers to who they are. XXL picks very talented artists, and whether one likes the music that is presented through the mixtape, one should look into projects from each artist.

Notable Tracks:

Pill-Angels Freestyle
J.Cole- Who’s World Is This
Fashawn – So Hard Freestyle
Final Grade- B

Popularity: 2% [?]

“WORTH THE WAIT?”
The highly anticipated Gangsta Grillz Mixtape from Brooklyn’s own Fabolous has finally dropped. Fabolous a.k.a Loso is at it again with There is No Competition 2 (The Funeral service), hosted by DJ Drama; featuring appearances from Nicki Minaj, Camron, Trey Songz, and Lloyd Banks and more.

After one too many push back dates, hip hop fans all over expected only the absolute best out of the new mixtape. Frustration grew, as did the date of the mixtape release. Finally the public received the highly anticipated mixtape, now the remaining question “was it worth the wait?”

Fabolous starts off the mixtape apologizing for the delay, and promising that he will kill all competition throughout the mixtape. Death and murder are the themes of the mixtape, however they don’t seem to give prominence in a time where gangsta rap is quite stale in hip hop game. Since Fabolous tends to rap violently throughout the mixtape, the listener may tend to get bored. Nevertheless, Loso brings the clever punchlines that he has built his career on, keeping most listeners amused with the punchlines. Also his features hold their own on the mixtape, keeping the listener interested in a mixtape that is based on violence song after song. A highlight of the mixtape was the combination of Fabolous and Trey Songz over the “All the Way Turnt up” instrumental. Both of the artist came hard, putting together a Dope remix. “For the Money,”featuring Nicki Minaj is also a highlight of the mixtape.

Each track is nice, but expect nothing above average from Fabolous. He can’t put out a bad mixtape because he is a solid artist, and any fan of Fab himself, lyricsm, or punchline rap would agree that this is a very solid mixtape. Only problem, is that when you build up such great anticipation for your product, you must be able to surprise your consumers, in this case Fabolous didn’t.

Final Grade: C+
Notable Tracks: Say Something, Tonight, I’m Raw
-Tre Banks
The Urban Feed

Popularity: 3% [?]

Corinne Bailey Rae—The Sea
-Saidah Anderson
-Music Writer

A name that seemed to have dissolved in the mouths of listeners for the last 2 years, Corinne Bailey Rae has once again managed to get fans talking as she releases her sophomore album The Sea . As a lover of music and an appreciator of art, I can only say that The Sea is a masterpiece that will be in the archives of all who enjoy the art of music. This anticipated album starts off with her first single, “I’d Do It All Again,” which can only sound ten times better on a live version. The massive sound in the production is no match to Corinne’s soulful vocals. Her soothing, yet strong vocals continue through the entire album and are as gentle as her first self-titled debut. Songs such as “Love On Its Way” seems to live up to the promise as one of the the perfect love ballads and one of the most powerful songs The Sea has to offer.

Although Corinne has yet to lose her talent and soulful vibe, The Sea contains a more eerie feeling that I was unprepared for. For instance, “Feels like the First Time,” starts off as the perfect reflection of a dark piano chord that turns into a big sound; which only turns out to be one of the greatest songs on the album. Along with “Feels Like The First Time,” “Paper Dolls” also brings an eerie sound to the production. Fortunately, Corinne carries the eerie sound and turns a seemingly odd song into an artistic masterpiece. Along with the eerie tone, yet artistic sound of the album, The Sea offers a sense of hope through Corinne’s voice. With each song Bailey Rae portrays an image of lost love, however still having faith. Love, an element that most singers are not prepared to explore, Corinne seems to genuinely believe in its, and is prepared to wait for whatever she deserves.

The most impressive element to this album is undeniably the correlation between the production and the lyrics. Unlike many albums, The Sea flows so perfectly that there is no need to skip any tracks and is listenable to the end. Although many have complained about the lack of excessive tracks, Corinne has done an excellent job of capturing listener’s ears with just eleven simple tracks. With not one feature, The Sea is sure to be underrated but much appreciated by anyone and everyone who bought the album.

It is hard to deny the talent of Corinne Bailey Rae who is at the epitome of an artist. Her style is unique and not often duplicated, which makes her even more respected. I would encourage anyone who enjoys music with good lyrics and good instrumentation to make a listen. Corinne Bailey Rae’s second album “The Sea” is in stores and online NOW!

Not too little, not too much. Simply perfection.

The Urban Feed Rates It: 4/5

The Urban Feed Tracks:

Love’s On It Way
Feels Like The First Time
Closer

Popularity: 2% [?]

Back by popular demand! Literally, for quite some time Hip Hop has truly unfullfilled that void with mediocre, radio friendly, label-friendly fake rappers. It wasn’t until “Till The Casket Drops” that the world of hip hop has truly lost its real essence with beat bangers, slick lyrics, and just plain ol’ swag. Now, everyone in the hip hop world can rejoice! Why? The Clipse! A couple years later, two albums later, a new label, the Clipse reappeared on the surface with their critically acclaimed album “Till The Casket Drops” with their lead singles “Kinda Like A Big Deal,” and “I’m Good,” all the while getting back to that good formula that got them in the first place, with a majority production from The Neptunes.

“Till The Casket Drops” kicks off with the triumphant but real “Freedom” produced by Sean C and LV, this track mixed with a sample, and an electric guitar, Pusha speaks the truth of his past troubles due to the stress of the industry and his past life. Although, “Freedom” plays a grim and melancholy moment of the Virginia duo, tracks such as “Champion,” “Life Change,” “Counseling,” and “All Eyes On Me” featuring Keri Hilson provide a more arrogant but confident side to The Clipse. Tracks such as “Door Man,” “There Was A Murder,” give an accurate depiction of the street life. “Till The Casket Drops” truly is album that truly speaks to the words that “patience is a virtue.” As the latest album from Clipse, has truly been a work of art, a work that showcases and represents the true essence of hip hop.

With production credits from primarily The Neptunes, Sean C and LV, and DJ Khalil, “Till The Casket Drops” gives the sounds of authentic, raw, and real content, that’s been missing in hip hop for quite some time. With tracks such as “Popular Demand,” “Showing Out,” and other tracks that allowed versatility, “Till The Casket Drops” comes on my list as one of the best albums of 2009.

Andrew
Music Editor

The Urban Feed Rates It: 4/5

The Tracks
Champion
Counseling
All Eyes On Me
Popular Demand

Popularity: 2% [?]

Graffiti it is, if you want to represent the how the American public smeared their attitudes and negativity towards the Virginia native R&B singer Chris Brown. 2009 has been not the most pleasing year for the dancer/singer as one incident created the domino effect in his career from endorsements to radio play. However, with “Graffiti,” Chris Brown’s attempt to revive his tarnished image due to an anger outbreak has given Chris a chance to transition back into the spotlight again. With 2009 being the most turbulent and trying time for Chris Brown, facing charges, community service, and scrutiny from everyone due to his assault case with Rihanna, Graffiti, almost represent the diary of what the singer has to say from his point of view. Meanwhile, you can’t forget Graffiti not only represents the feelings of despair and rekindling with his significant other, Graffiti for Chris Brown also represents the growth in the 20-year-old individual, the frustrations of a young celebrity under a negative influence, and whose mind is filled with those thoughts we all come to think about, and where want to enable them.

Creating the work of “Graffiti,” the album starts off with the Swizz Beatz produced “I Can Transform Ya” featuring Lil Wayne. The track provides a futuristic feel, with the always necessary Lil Wayne’ drop that’s vital for the clubs. Next, “Sing Like Me” gives Chris the room to let the ladies know what he can do, “Sing Like Me” provides a relaxed feel, but a feeling that one can get in the mood for. It’s with these tracks “Sing Like Me,” “Take My Time,” and “Movie,” that Brown gives listeners the more sensual and romantic side of Chris Brown through “Graffiti,” in which was briefly present with tracks such as “Take You Down” with his 2007 album “Exclusive.”

Providing a more romantic side, Brown gives balance with tracks such as “What I Do,” and “Wait” giving way to more of cockiness and swagger as well. However, in “Graffiti” Brown makes note of what’s really been missing in his life with tracks “Crawl,” “Famous Girl,” and “I Need This” as a call to his missing counterpart. It’s Brown’s emotional depth with these songs that “Graffiti” places in the ranks of the better albums of 2009. Chris Brown literally digs into himself and sings what he’s truly been feeling. In addition, Brown also provides a new mix of music, citing influences from techno and electronic music with the tracks “Chase Our Love,” “I.Y.A,” and “Pass Out” featuring Eva Simmons. Not missing his mainstream fans, Chris also brings the likes of singer Ester with his feel-good harmonic impacted “I Love You.” Brown later on expresses his ultimate frustrations with the track “Falling Down.”

Featuring production from Polow Da Don, Swizz Beatz, and Chris co-writing/writing nearly the majority of the album had it not been for the recent turmoil that surrounded Chris Brown with Rihanna, Graffiti could have accelerated to the top of the charts within the fourth quarter of the 2009 year for album. Its clean cut production, mixed with Chris Brown’s growth as an entertainer, singer, still keeping the essence of the Chris Brown we know, mixed with Euro-influences on tracks. Like Graffiti on the streets, “Graffiti” along with Chris Brown was either overlooked or looked at negatively by the public, and that’s something the public needs to look at again come 2010.

Andrew
Music Editor

The Urban Feed Rates It: 3/5
The Tracks

Sing Like Me
I Love You
Crawl
I’ll Go
I Need This

Popularity: 3% [?]

2009 has truly been the year of Rihanna. Both good and bad. Involved in one of the most controversial domestic violence cases since the days of Ike and Tina Turner. Interviewed in one of the most talked about interviews on 20/20 with Diane Sawyer since Whitney Houston in 2002. Also, simply being the “IT” girl of the paparrazzi, Drake, and so many others. The good girl gone bad sensation Rihanna came back into the mix of things, cleaned face and all with “RATED R,” the follow up to her 2007 smash “Good Girl Gone Bad” featuring the Grammy Award winning single “Umbrella” featuring Jay-Z. Following the momentum of Good Girl Gone Bad Rated R, the latest album from Rihanna showcased a much more bolder, edgier, raw side from the once candid and innocent Caribbean Princess of Pop.

Beginning with the dark “Mad House,” Rihanna sets the tone for “Rated R,” not necessarily dark, but unknown. However, it is with tracks such as “Wait Your Turn,” and “Hard” that this unknown tone, turns into aggression, power, confidence, and bragging rights. Rihanna truly gets full of herself with the Tricky Stewart produced “Hard” featuring Young Jeezy. As she states “the hottest bitch in heels right here,” you can’t really blame her though, as “Hard” is addictive and catchy. It’s with this new-found celebration of self within Rihanna and the rest of the world’s infatutation with her, that Rated R displays perhaps her feelings of the moment. Rihanna gets even more harder with tracks such as “Rockstar 101,” and “Fire Bomb” in which the use of electric guitar is most significant and complementing. “Rockstar 101″ and “Fire Bomb” two tracks that are radio-friendly. Although a significant part of the album has a rock element, Rihanna doesn’t shy away from her Caribbean and Urban roots with tracks such as “Rude Boy,” and the song for everyone’s crew “G4L.”

Featuring production and songwriting credits from Tricky Stewart and Ne-Yo and appearances from Slash, Will.I.am, and Young Jeezy , Rihanna has not fallen short of the formula that has finally garnered her the success. Rated R, gives the edgy mainstream look of Rihanna, meanwhile still maintaining urban appeal. Tracks such as “Hard,” “Rockstar 101,” and “Wait Your Turn” give listeners a new perspective of Rihanna, a new woman that’s taking control of herself, and her career, through all mediums, whether with fashion, or a new a sound. Rihanna simply not a Good Girl Gone Bad, but a Good Girl Gone Better.

Andrew
Music Editor

The Urban Feed Rates It: 3.2/5

The Tracks
Hard
Rockstar 101
G4L
Fire Bomb

Popularity: 3% [?]

Junior MAFIA, Dipset, MURDER INC, Roc-A-Fella, Cash Money, Young Money. Every some odd years, one group comes along and takes the world by storm. Whether by their controversial star artists (The Notorious B.I.G, Ja Rule, Juvenile, Lil Wayne), or the non-traditional record executives that employ them (Diddy, Irv Gotti) it’s only right that the group as a whole comes with a debut compilation album. And Young Money is no exception. Consisting of twelve radicals including CEO Lil Wayne, and 2009’s Mixtape Gurus Drake and Nicki Minaj, Young Money released their debut compilation album titled “We Are Young Money” following their #1 debut hit single “Every Girl.” Featuring Lil Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj, R&B singer Shanell, Tyga, Mack Maine, Lil Twist, Lil Chuckee, Gudda Gudda, Jae Millz, Short Dawg, and T-Streetz, “We Are Young Money” is the introduction of what some would argue the future Cash Money records.

Starting off with the playful yet introductory track with “BedRock” featuring former MURDER INC R&B singer Lloyd, “BedRock” like “Girl I Got You” shows the much more playful side of Young Money. However, tracks “BedRock,” and “Girl I Got You” are the least obscene of the cuts of the album. Tracks such as “Wife Beater,” “Play In My Band,” and “Fuck Da Bullshit,” display the gritty, and explicit nature of the members of the album. Throughout “We Are Young Money” the star most present-Lil Wayne impacts a majority of the tracks on the album. However, We Are Young Money fails to live up to expectations of a compilation album, despite the huge success of singles “Every Girl,” and “BedRock.” Tracks such as “Roger That,” and “Fuck Da Bullshit” give only way to the other promising stars on this compilation album Drake and Nicki Minaj. Tracks such the “Friday” parody “Ms. Parker,” and “Streets Is Watching” are often taken over by the leader of the group, and give little way for other members of Young Money to make a significance on the album.

With production credits from David Banner, Tha Bizness, and Kane Beatz, “We Are Young Money” balances the lack of representation from each artist with infectious beats from such tracks as “Every Girl,” “Gooder,” and “New Shit.” However, with an overkill of Lil Wayne presence on “We Are Young Money,” one could easily believe that this is Lil Wayne’s follow up to “Carter III,” or absent rock presence of “Rebirth.” Hopefully, Lil Wayne’s upcoming jail sentence will do more for Young Money as a group that creates more of an impact in Hip Hop and in the mainstream, rather than what past executives and stars of groups (Diddy-Bad Boy, Jay-Z-Roc-A-Fella) have failed to do.

Andrew
Music Editor

The Urban Feed Rates it: 2.7/5

Urban Feed Tracks
Every Girl
Ms. Parker
Play In My Band
Roger That

Popularity: 4% [?]

Mary is back! This time, she’s more brighter, she’s more vibrant, and claiming what’s hers. Of course, Mary J. Blige has always been that way. Ever since her earlier days from “What’s The 411?,” to the triumphant and personal story of “My Life,” to “Share My World,” and “Mary” ;Mary J. Blige has always been personal. It’s that personal connection of real experience through song with audiences all over that has contributed to her perseverance and strength as one of the greatest R&B singer/songwriters of all time. Nine studio albums later, Mary’s “Stronger WithEach Tear” showcases that wonderful Mary sound once again.

Kicking off with “Tonight” produced by The Runners, Mary still shows to the world her sensuality, and longing for the significant other. Although, “Tonight” lacks lyrical depth, the message is clear, sensual, sets the mood for the nightlife and the clubs. Next, Mary gets a cocky and confident with “The One” featuring the Freshman rapper of the Year 2009, none other than Drake. “The One” produced by Rodney Jerkins makes also another perfect fit for the clubs with a booming beat and over-confident swag from MJB and DRAKE. However, Mary’s make sure her swag isn’t something easy to be brushed off with her feel good, inspirational track “I Feel Good.” It’s tracks such as “Feel Good,” “Each Tear,” and “The One” display not just the confidence of Mary, but the strength of the songstress as well.

However, Mary’s “Stronger” is just as soulful, with tracks such as “In The Morning,” and “I Love U.” Mary brings the old but classical 70’s soulful instrumentals of the congo, strumming of guitar strings, passionate voice of cry and concern through “I Love U.” Through “In the Morning,” Blige brings the classical orchestral elements such as the piano and violins to elegantly display her beautiful vocal range. Although, both tracks “I Love U,” and “In The Morning” have different musical styling, the messages of concern, frustration, and anger speak clearly. Blige still keeps the balance bringing the soulful, but mid-tempo “Good Love” featuring “King of the South” T.I. with horns, a two-step beat, and lyrical swag from T.I. himself.

With production credits from The Runners, Ryan Leslie, and Rodney Jerkins, and appearances from Trey Songz, Drake, and T.I., (also the song “Color” featured from the hit movie “Precious”) “Stronger” is a perfect depiction of Mary J. Blige on the top of her career. Her authentic style is still present, not abandoning her true fans, yet she doesn’t hesitate to re-invent or add a twist to her sound. Nine albums later, Mary still embodies the true essence of womanhood rising through pain, celebrating happiness and self-esteem, and embracing life. Mary J. Blige is truly “Stronger With Each Tear.”

Andrew
Music Editor

The Urban Feed Rates It: 4/5

The Tracks
In The Morning
I Love U
I Feel Good
The One

Popularity: 3% [?]

Alicia Keys—The Element of Freedom

The freedom to love. The freedom to hear. The freedom to experience the gift of Alicia Keys.

As I listen and experience Alicia Keys fourth studio album, The Element of Freedom, I am completely shocked by the level of elegance the album presents. Ms. Keys offers her version of freedom through her deepest intro to date with “The Element of Freedom (Intro).” She then hits us with those lovely keys with one of the best songs on the album, “Love is Blind.” I was initially drawn into the 808 beat on the track, however, her surprisingly strong voice on the track reminds me that her lyrical content exceeding any “808″ pattern that the track offers.

Keys continues the pattern of her signature keys with her hit single “Doesn’t Mean Anything,” which in my opinion, is the only song that reflects freedom on the album. While I would have hoped for the EP to embody the essence of freedom, “The Element of Freedom” offers the essence of strength instead. It is evident through each track that Keys has approached a new found strength in her life, and who are we to deny her the opportunity to display such strength. Alicia illustrates her strengths with her uplifting tracks “Wait Till They See Me Smile” and “How it Feels to Fly,” as each production contribute undeniably to being one of the strongest tracks on the album. I can only imagine what each song sounds like in a live performance, because the strength of the piano and choir addition on each track is clearly washed out by studio mastering.

Not only is “The Element of Freedom” elegant and smooth, it also portrays a more sexier side of Alicia Keys. Her best track “Unthinkable (I’m Ready),” featuring Young Money/Universal artist Drake has yet to be over-played on my playlists, and I don’t see it ever getting old in my book. The mesmerizing song and quality content has the ability to capture any listener’s ear. Along with the Drake feature, Alicia picks up the tempo a bit with the long awaited Beyonce feature in “Put It in a Love Song.” Although I wasn’t anticipating the best song out of this mix, I was slightly disappointed with the content and production of this song. It was a little too much going on for my liking; however, I am sure that it will become a hit in mainstream.

Unfortunately, a few tracks on “Element” such as “This Bed” and “Love is My Disease,” are two of my least favorite tracks and could have been left out for useless purposes. But sooner than later, Alicia makes up for the lack purpose of those songs with her rendition of “Empire State Mind II (Broken Down).” I initially hated hearing the overplayed radio track, but when I heard “Part II (Broken Down)” on “The Element of Freedom,” I quickly fell back in love with the passion of the song. I am sure that any New Yorker would appreciate and relate to the slowed down and classier version of the song.

All in all, I am pleased with the outcome of the album and the marketing of the album, take a look at the best tracks.

Saidah
Music Writer
The Urban Feed

The Urban Feed Rates It: 3.5/5

Feed Tracks:

Unthinkable
Love is Blind
Empire State of Mind II (Broken Down)

Popularity: 6% [?]

Hip Hop is BORN AGAIN! Birthplace: The Nation’s Capital Washington, DC. Born: November 10, 2009. Name: Attention Deficit. For the past three years, hip hop has failed in filling the void of quality music. Although few veterans such as Jay-Z, Fabolous, Kanye, Lupe, Lil Wayne have put in work, hip hop’s newer candidates have yet to showcase their lyrical skill and ability (besides Drake). However, on November 10, Wale’s debut album “Attention Deficit” has changed the perception. Featuring appearances from Bun B, Chrisette Michele, Gucci Mane, Weensey, Melanie Fiona, and J. Cole, In addition, with production credits from Mark Ronson, Cool and Dre, and many others “Attention Deficit” is arguably one of the best hip hop albums of 2009.

Attention Deficit kicks off with the horn-heavy, smooth, and ironically chill track “Triumph” in which Wale explains his way to the top, all while rapping on smooth beat. Next, Wale uses the elements of Roy Ayers and Kool and The Gang sample for “Mama Told Me” similiar to Amerie’s “More Than Love” featuring Fabolous. However, what’s different about this version is the presence of actual instruments, including percussion, and horns, which makes “Mama Told Me” a stand out track. Featuring heavy beats, clever lyrics,collaborations with artists, and the authentic sounds of Go-Go, tracks such as “Pretty Girls,” “Prescription,” “World Tour,” “Mirrors,” and “Beautiful Bliss” display Wale’s own clever, unique style of rap and lyricism incorporating the use of instruments, all while providing something friendly for the world of Billboard, the radio, and the blogosphere.

What Wale’s Attention Deficit does is not just provide heavy beats both from the studio and the real and raw go-go sounds of Washington, DC. However, Wale also tells the stories of everyday problems as well as his own troubles with women, relationships, and the never-ending dark skin/light skinned complex as a social problem. Perhaps one of the most honest songs on Attention Deficit “Shades” featuring Chrisette Michele, Wale goes in to detail of his problems being dark-skinned in a light-skinned influence world. Also, tracks such as “90210,” and “Diary,” Wale expresses empathy for the self-conscious females afraid of rejection, hurt, and place in society, all while providing an addictive beat, and good hook.

Wale has brought the true essence hip hop back, all while bringing along one of the most underrated genres of music, “Go-Go.” His work of infusing a whole new genre, in addition to incorporating his own style of hip hop for his debut is quite impressive. Wale is conceited and is making his way to the top, but has every right to be. Such tracks as ” Mirrors,” ” Let It Loose,” and “Beautiful Bliss” showcasing addictive hooks, natural elements of instrumentals and samples, and authenticity of music while touching on important topics that are not identical to typical hip-hop , are true examples of his artistry. Wale’s “Attention Deficit” has definitely caught my attention, my attention to hip hop being quality again. Wale’s debut album ATTENTION DEFICIT is in stores and online now.

Andrew
Music Editor
The Urban Feed

The Urban Feed Rates It: 4/5

FEED TRACKS:
Pretty Girls
Mirrors
Mama Told Me
Beautiful Bliss
90210

Popularity: 4% [?]