November R&B Wrap Up

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What up world! We are back at it again. Hope you all are enjoying the holiday season. We certainly are, and thanks for your support the site is doing really well. Now let’s get into it. November was a busy month as artists were rushing to make a statement by year’s end, oh and get that holiday cash. With a busy fourth quarter we are here to breakdown the releases and help you make a decision at the checkout counter, well the computer.

November R&B/Soul Music Releases

Eric Roberson: Mister Nice Guy

Released: November 8^th, 2011

The King of R&B Soul is back! This is something soul fans have been waiting on for a long time. Fresh off his classic release “Music Fan First”, Erro returns with “Mister Nice Guy”. Although it does not match his last release, “Mister Nice Guy” is a solid effort from one of the best in the game. There are some great moments on this album and the infectious “Summertime Anthem” should have been one of the hottest singles this year. That’s the downside to being on the underground but I’m sure true Erro fans won’t mind one bit.

Volume Meter: 9 out of 10

Rihanna: Talk That Talk

Released: November 21^st, 2011

I know the term “hot” is grossly overused in today’s culture but that really is the only word to describe this album. Rihanna herself is on a hot streak and it seems like she can do no wrong. This album is truly at the cutting edge. It’s daring, creative, and truly original. The lead single “We Found Love” with Calvin Harris sets the tone for the album and you quickly realize this isn’t your ordinary R&B slash Pop record. It takes a lot of guts to pick a euro sound for your lead single. Rihanna follows this throughout the cd by throwing out all rules and guidelines and doing what she wants. It all winds up being a refreshing and exciting album. It’s clear that she is headed for that number one spot.

Volume Meter: 9 out of 10

Mary J. Blige: My Life II, The Journey Continues

Released: November 21^st, 2011

The game just isn’t right without Mary J. and this release reminds us of just how could she really is. Probably the most consistent artist of this generation Mary is clearly in a zone and her last few cds have really hit the mark. This release comes with more guest appearances than we are used to from a Mary cd but surprisingly all of the collaborations work. Mary maintained her hip hop roots with appearances from Busta Rhymes, Nas, and Drake and each offering contributes to the album’s success. But the highlight of the album is “Don’t Mind” and it is vintage Mary. With stellar production throughout Mary shows why she is still head of the class in the R&B game with no change in sight.

Volume Meter: 9 out of 10

Trey Songz: Anticipation 2

Released: November 1^st, 2011

The first question I have with this cd is "how do you give something this good away for free"? This one is strictly for the bedroom and Trey Songz delivers a bedroom banger that we haven't heard in a very long time. Songz is clearly at the forefront of the new school R&B cats and this effort shows with focus he might be the best. Anticipation 2 is sure to leave fans anticipating more and more.

Volume Meter: 9 out of 10

Tyrese: Open Invitation

Released: November 1^st, 2011

It’s been a long time since we have heard from Tyrese. I guess that movie money is hard to walk away from. But this release shows that Tyrese can still produce in the music game. There has never been a question of his talent but the question is can he claim a spot in today’s game. With this release I would have to say the answer is no. Although there are some good moments on the album I’m not sure it will help him make an impact and make him relevant again. You should still give it a try though. For old time’s sake.

Volume Meter: 6 out of 10

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

NORE - Scared Money ft. Pusha T & Meek Mill (Music Video)

Hardbody Music, this is so fresh I had to pop it off after hours! NORE is in rare form on this one, Pusha T and Meek deliver the goods as usual! Pay attention, it's gonna be a cold winter! Philly Stand Up!

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

Ram Squad - Unfortunate

This is a certfied Philadelphia classic! Regardless of your thoughts on the late Tommy Hill, you can't deny this record ran the city in the late 90's. Enjoy!



The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

Cut Off The Radio

What up world! We are back at it again. Hope you all are enjoying the holiday season. We certainly are, and thanks for your support the site is doing really well. Now let’s get into it. November was a busy month as artists were rushing to make a statement by year’s end, oh and get that holiday cash. With a busy fourth quarter we are here to breakdown the releases and help you make a decision at the checkout counter, well the computer.

November Hip Hop/Rap Music Releases

Drake: Take Care

Released: November 15^th, 2011

This one has been well documented. But weeks have gone by and this is one is still in heavy rotation.

Volume Meter: 10 out of 10

Lloyd Banks: Cold Corner 2

Released: November 11^th, 2011

Ok, let’s talk about this now. You know it’s bad when our ears are conditioned to the softness of today’s rap game that we can’t even recognize a great hardcore east coast rap album. Its sounds so good you find a reason to not like it. Strange behavior I tell ya. But simply put this is one of the best pure rap albums in a long time. From track 1 to the finish Banks hits hard all the way throughout. Showing that he is truly one of the best in the game and heavily underrated.

Volume Meter: 9 out of 10

Wale: Ambition

Released: November 1^st, 2011

Although Wale is somewhat of an enigma in the game he finally received a chance to enter the mainstream with a major release. His previous efforts were stellar but nothing as good as his first mixtape. This effort may be his best to date and he is certainly gaining fans. There are some really good moments on the cd which reaches its peak in the collaboration with Meek Mills and Rick Ross. The connection with Miguel turns out great results as well. Overall it’s a solid effort that will satisfy his core fanbase.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

The Roots: Undun

Released: December 6^th, 2011

Not much to say here, it’s the Roots. Have they ever disappointed? Much in line with many of their other releases hard beats, good rhymes. If you like The Roots you’ll like this one. If you don’t you won’t. Fans only on this one.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Mobb Deep: Black Cocaine

Released: November 21^st, 2011

Although this isn’t a full release it does quench the appetite of Mobb Deep fans. It’s been a long time. With their first studio album in three years Mobb Deep certainly doesn’t disappoint. All the classic Mobb elements are here and collaboration with Nas is a certain highlight. The pinnacle of the cd is the last song which Prodigy hits the sweet spot yet again. Showing critics and fans alike that the Mobb is far from finished.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Fred The Godson: City of god

Released: November 11^th, 2011

Folks, I think we have a problem. For a little over a year Fred has been buzzing on the underground. Even appearing on the cover of XXL Magazine in the freshman of the year edition. Many people are wondering who is this guy. Well, I’m here to tell you he is the real deal. This effort is a pleasant surprise to NY hip hop lovers. Hailing from the South Bronx Fred encompasses all the elements of NY gritty street rap and yes he is overweight. Remind you of anyone? Besides when DJ Drama gives you a Gangsta Grillz your official.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Mac Miller: Blue Slide Park

Released: November 8^th, 2011

I’m as surprised as anyone here. It’s the golden era for hip hop in Pittsburgh. The movement is strong and Mac Miller is certainly changing the game. He has garnered a massive following which propelled him to a number one debut on the Billboard charts. All this, without a major label push, Mac remains independent. As my boy Chez stated “Mac is going to make a lot of rappers reassess how they do business”. That in itself says it all. I came in to this, thinking the album was gonna be some nonsense but surprisingly this is a great hip hop album. Reminds you of when hip hop was just fun. The production is great and there are some really good moments on the album.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Termanology & Ea$y Money: S.T.R.E.E.T.

Released: November 21^st , 2011

This one came out of nowhere but guess what, it’s really good. Probably one of my favorites of the year. These two mc’s bring it on this one and the collab with Fred the Godson is the highlight of the album. Solid lyrical efforts from both, this album revives the legacy of NY rap. Give this one a spin and you won’t be disappointed.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

B.O.B.: EPIC

Released: November 28^th, 2011

Ok, there are some cd’s I’m just not in a good space to listen to. This is one of them. I can’t say I feel anyway about B.O.B. good or indifferent. Do what you will with this one. There are a few standout cuts like the collaboration with Mos Def and the connections with Big Krit and Lil Wayne work as well. Just as a whole I’m not sure I can do it but I’m sure his fans will love it.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

Torae: For The Record

Released: November 1^st, 2011

For years Torae has been putting it down on the underground. One of the underground favorites and most underrated spitters in the game. This is Torae’s first overground release. With production from major heavyweights; Pete Rock, Khrysis, DJ Premier, and 9^th Wonder this one is sure to please. If you like good beats and rhymes this one is for you. Torae certainly delivers and will give you plenty of moments where you will hit the rewind asking yourself. What did he say? With this release Torae makes a statement with action that hip hop is alive and well.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

Young Chris: The Revival

Released: November 1^st, 2011

Despite being on the brink of irrelevancy Young Chris is determined not to fall off. Quietly in the last couple of years he has been surprisingly consistent. Offering quality material via mixtapes and features. This mixtapes continues the resurgence as many of the tracks flow quite well. With his continued effort he is showing who was the silent force in the State Prop gang.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

Pusha T: Fear of god 2:

Released: November 9^th, 2011

I’m on board with the crowd that believes Pusha T is one of the most overlooked rappers in the game. However it’s becoming increasingly clear that Pusha T is an underachiever when it comes time to perform on the solo front. Its undisputable that Pusha has talent and classics under his belt but this effort is seriously underwhelming.

Volume Meter: 5 out of 10

Birdman & Mack Maine: Billionaire Minds

Released: November 2^nd, 2011

Ok, I know what you’re thinking. Why? Yes, I thought the same thing. But surprisingly it’s not as bad as you would think. There are actually a few bangers on here. Try at your own risk.

Volume Meter: 5 out of 10

Freddie Gibbs: Cold Day in Hell

Released: November 1^st , 2011

I’m a fan of Freddie Gibbs so I won’t elaborate here. All I’ll say is I’m not sure what happened here. I’m not sure if signing with Young Jeezy was the right move because the elements that made Freddie special on the underground seem to be missing lately. As a believer in his talent I’ll hope that he finds his space again.

Volume Meter: 4 out of 10

Black Milk & Danny Brown: Black and Brown

Released: November 1^st, 2011

Black Milk is my favorite producer in the game and I think the most underrated artist in the game. That said, for some reason this effort didn’t work. There are a lot of beats that sound like throwaways and Danny Brown’s performance is disappointing. Considering their connection on Black Milk’s last album was magical I’m at a loss to explain this. I’ll just say, let’s forget this ever happened.

Volume Meter: 3 out of 10

Pac Div: The Div

Released: November 8^th, 2011

In the last couple of years Pac Div has been one of the pleasant surprises to the game. Some good efforts on the underground have developed a following for the crew. This effort was highly anticipated and for some reason they failed to hit the mark. I guess we will have to wait for them to live up to their potential.

Volume Meter: 2 out of 10

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

Wale - Lotus Flower Bomb ft. Miguel (Official Video)

This one is for the ladies with that Lotus Flower Bomb! Shout out to Wale and the whole DMV! Go grab his new album, Ambition available online and in stores now!




The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

Mobb Deep - Dog Shit (2011)

Shout out my man Jordan Bullock! He dug this one up from a summer mixtape! I can't lie. I miss this sound! Official hoodie music!



The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

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Album Spotlight

Drake: Take Care

Released: November 15^th, 2011

What up music fans. Every once in a while an artist releases an album that requires its own post. Drake’s latest release warrants such an event. Before we begin we must clear something up. If you listen to Drake as a rapper you will be disappointed. Flat out. And conversely if you listen to Drake as an R&B artist you will be equally disappointed. If you concern yourself with his rap to sing ratio you won’t get the point. To enjoy Drake’s music you first have to let go of the notion of him being a rapper or singer. He is something the game hasn’t seen before and you can’t place him in a box.

If you look at it square on the surface his last three releases; “Thank Me Later”, “So Far Gone”, and “Comeback Season” are all phenomenal albums. In my opinion he has been on top of the game since 2008. However, you will always hear people who are turned off by the “softness” of his music. I do believe people are mistaking honesty for softness. I know we are used to our rappers telling us lies but has it gone so far that we don’t want to hear the truth? Now I’m not saying this is an album you can hop in the truck with three of your boys and ride out to. But you can’t do that with Kanye albums either and you don’t hear that argument with him. Being that I came up in the golden era of hip hop and when gangsta rap ruled the game I have an affinity for the gritty as well. However, we always made room for acts that weren’t hardcore and there is a place in the game for them. What is even more troubling is that many rappers of this era would not be able to compete in that space in the 90’s but somehow escape the ridicule that Drake seems to always receive. This results in many people turning their backs on good quality music. Not only do they miss probably the best talent to enter the game since 50 Cent they also miss out on a producer operating in rare air. The musical display that Noah Shebib aka “40” puts on every time is nothing short of remarkable. The only other producer in the game operating at this level is Kanye. Even with this in mind many listeners are still turned off by Drake. You can tell this dynamic is not lost on Drake as he raps “I know that showing emotion don’t ever mean that I’m a pussy/know that I don’t make music for ninjas that don’t get pussy/those are the ones I count on to diss me or overlook me”. I think that sums it up.

What is even more perplexing is that many underground heads will try to paint him with the same brush as other mainstream artist. But that isn’t possible when Drake came up through the underground. Drake consistently reps J. Dilla and many other underground artist. Even this album features underground heavyweights The Weeknd, and Kendrick Lamar. With this in mind let’s get to the album.

From the start you get the idea that this isn’t going to be your normal album. With production from 40 Drake sets off the album with two eclectic selections that position his rhyme and sing flow in a position for success. From there you get the certified banger “Headlines” followed up with the first of three collaborations with “The Weeknd”. Ladies and Gentlemen if you don’t know who that is you seriously need to get up on your music. The Weeknd is definitely the most impressive new R&B artist and his contributions to this project are epic. The combination of Drake and The Weeknd creates homeruns each time. Rihanna also makes an appearance which results in one of the best house/R&B connections of the year. In the same vein as Rihanna smash hit “We found love” this track is sure to heat up the charts soon. This trend of using Euro producers might take flight and set a new trend. Kendrick Lamar shows up to take the next track to another place entirely. This connection surprisingly leaves you wanting more from these two artists. With their upcoming tour together we may see more collabs in the future. There are other great moments on the album with Stevie Wonder, Lil Wayne, and Nicki Minaj but the highlight of the album is the collaboration with Rick Ross. Over a Just Blaze track these two spit the best verses of the album. This connection may have made the hip hop track of the year. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard something this tough. From track 1 to 19 there aren’t any tracks that require an automatic skip. Over time all the tracks will grow on you and create a seamless classic. I’m very selective when I give out a 10 on the volume meter but this effort deserves consideration. Drake deserves it for bringing a new sound to the game and pushing the boundaries of hip hop music. Salute!

Volume Meter: 10 out of 10

Take Care,

G.

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.

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What up world! We are back at it again. Thanks for checking out our albums of the year. The first month numbers were very successful for the site. So we appreciate the support but we need ya’ll to comment and participate. Get involved and with that said let’s take a look at the albums that came out last month. We ran through everything so that you don’t have to.

October Hip Hop Music Releases

Styles P: Master of Ceremonies

Released: October 4^th, 2011

Ok, we aren’t going to spend much time here. By now we all know what to expect from a Styles P album. No doubt Styles fans will be satisfied here as this is probably Styles best effort in some time. However, at some point you get the, been there done that syndrome with him. A few bangers sprinkled throughout but nothing memorable that will stay in your rotation more than a few weeks.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

9th Wonder: The Wonder Years

Released: September 27^th, 2011

This is one that 9^th Wonder fans have been waiting on for quite some time. One of hip hops most talented and underrated producer’s has failed to deliver a complete album on previous occasions. However, this time 9^th doesn’t disappoint. Littered with star appearances throughout 9^th shines with his signature sound combined with veteran rhyme spitters. This combination works and provides a good listen with rare skips. Some memorable moments include his collaboration with Marsha Ambrosius and his connection with the highly underrated Kendrick Lamar. Tanya Morgan, Phonte, Skyzoo, Murs, Mac Miller and many other underground favorites drop in to lend support. This release gives something for the hip hop lovers to ride to for quite some time.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

Phonte: Charity Starts at Home

Released: September 27^th, 2011

Phonte has made an impact on the hip hop seen with two separate underground favorites. Through his classic mixtapes and albums with Little Brother and The Foreign Exchange, Phonte has gathered quite a following. Phonte is a dynamic talent that can lend to multiple styles of music. On this album Phonte shines with a fusion of hip hop and soul. There are a few moments on this album that will just make you feel comfortable. There is no lack for lyrics either and certainly some rewind lines. Unfortunately, artist like Phonte may never make it to the mainstream but you get a sense that if it doesn’t happen Phonte will be just fine.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

DJ Drama: Third Power

Released: October 11^th, 2011

Not gonna spend much time here. I don’t like to spend too much time when it’s not good. As a fan of DJ Drama I have always been thrilled with his releases. Unfortunately, this one doesn’t work. Packed with many guest appearances this effort somehow fails to make an impact. Not sure if Don Cannon should be more involved or what’s going on. But we will have to wait until his next release to really enjoy quality music that Drama can bring to the table.

Volume Meter: 4 out of 10

October R&B Soul Music Releases

James Morrison: The Awakening

Released: September 27^th, 2011

Since his landmark album “Songs for You, Truths for Me”, James Morrison has gained a huge following. Already an award winning artist across the pond James has gained much traction here in the states. Oh and by the way if you don’t have “Songs for You, Truths for Me”, there is a deficiency in your music collection. With one of the most unique voices in music and part of the blue eyed soul movement James is certainly leaving a mark. Although this album is not as good as his last album, this effort certainly does not disappoint. There are some very special moments on the album where James hits that sweet spot that will leave you listening for hours. He is one of the few “artist” in an era where we don’t even know what that means. Look for him to improve as the years go by and become one of the most prominent musicians in music.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Goapele: Break of Dawn

Released: October 24^th, 2011

I remember watching Soul Train one day and this woman comes on. After about 15 seconds I immediately fell in love with her. Her voice was one of a kind and her subject matter was raw and purposeful. Very unusual for this day and age. This woman happened to be Goapele and months later she would hit mainstream with her classic hit “Closer”. Closer was followed by a great album and then another stellar effort. These efforts were followed by a hiatus. But now Goapele returns and you remember all of the things that made you fall in love with her the first time. Some great beats here as well and Goapele fans are sure to be satisfied. We also have a song of the year nominee on here but I’ll let you all listen and figure it out.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Lalah Hathaway: Where it All Begins

Released: October 18^th, 2011

Lalah Hathaway has been a favorite of soul lovers for quite some time. All of her releases seem to grab you and let you know what music is supposed to sound like. On this latest release Lalah does not disappoint and gives listeners a reminder of the neo-soul movement that vanished way to soon. With her signature sound and classic smooth grooves Lalah makes a statement with this album. Give this one a listen and you will find yourself going back to her earlier cds to make a day of it.

Volume Meter: 8 out of 10

Joe: The Good, the Bad, the Sexy

Released: October 18^th, 2011

Being one of the most talented and consistent artist of a generation could have its drawbacks. I think Joe is caught in this situation and pretty much a victim of his own success. People are so used to him being good they don’t pay him any attention. Once again this results in good music being overlooked. Similar to his last release “Signature”, his latest release delivers. Before we move forward you can’t call yourself a fan of R&B if you don’t have a copy of “Signature”, arguably his best effort to date. When it’s all said and done we will sit back and say Joe never released an album that wasn’t quality. This release follows in a long line of quality albums by an all time great.

Volume Meter: 7 out of 10

As you can see it was a slow month for music. You can also see that it was a much better month for R&B than Hip Hop. Hopefully this will switch around with all the big titles dropping in November.

Peace until next time.

G.

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Holland Turner Media Group, or any employee thereof. Holland Turner Media Group reserves the right to delete, edit, or alter content in any manner it sees fit or deems unacceptable.