Music on My Mind

Rdio Jamzeez

2012-02-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

DOPENESS!!! Sir Lucious Left Foot!

2010-12-03T16:02:00.000-08:00

This is the dopeness and definitely NOT the wackness...

Typhoon & Y La bamba played in my office!!!

2010-10-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

By: Elijah Carroll
Here's my latest post for the IODA Marketing Blog
Last month while touring together we had the pleasure of an in-office performance by Portland's Y La Bamba and Typhoon. Touring behind Y La Bamba's brand new record Lupon and Typhoon's May release Hunger and Thirst, both out on Tender Loving Empire, these two indie bands piled 18 deep into our office and made my week with a beautiful performance. Each band played a short set and brought up the other band at the end forming an 18 person indie supergroup right in our office.

I am a big fan of both bands so the prospect of seeing both in such an intimate setting was quite exciting. Little did I know they would all perform together on several songs giving our whole office an amazing show. We managed to catch this awesome event on video and would like to share two of the collaborative songs with you. Enjoy these beautiful songs and grab a few free Promotracks of their recent albums below the videos!

Y La Bamba with Typhoon:

Typhoon with Y La Bamba:

And of course some free Promotracks to take with you:

Y la Bamba
"Juniper" (mp3)
from "Lupon"
(Tender Loving Empire)

Buy at Tender Loving Empire
Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Typhoon
"Starting Over (Bad Habits)" (mp3)
from "Hunger and Thirst"
(Tender Loving Empire)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Best Episode Yet! Check Out The IODAcast Podcast Peeps.

2010-10-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

IODAcast 079, Featuring: Pigeon John, Zola Jesus and The Mommyheads is live.

Listen at IODAcast.com or at iTunes and download the tracks to go below:

The Mommyheads
"Work" (mp3)
from "Finest Specimens"
(Dromedary Records)

More On This Album

Pigeon John
"Before We're Gone" (mp3)
from "Dragon Slayer"
(Quannum Projects)

More On This Album

Wayman Tisdale
"Sunshine" (mp3)
from "The Fonk Record"
(Rendezvous Music)

More On This Album

Speed Dial 7
"State Trooper (feat. Passage, Elissa P, Marcus Graap & Pip Skid)" (mp3)
from "Short Rich Apocalypse"
(Marathon of Dope)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

My Jerusalem
"Sweet Chariot" (mp3)
from "Gone For Good"
(00:02:59 LLC)

More On This Album

Zola Jesus
"Poor Animal" (mp3)
from "Valusia - EP"
(Sacred Bones Records)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Podcasting like it's my job!

2010-09-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

IODAcast 077, Featuring: Gold Panda, Frankie Rose And The Outs and Franz Nicolay is live.

Listen at IODAcast.com or at iTunes and download the tracks to go below:

Gold Panda
"You" (mp3)
from "Lucky Shiner"
(Ghostly International)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Frankie Rose and The Outs
"Little Brown Haired Girls" (mp3)
from "Frankie Rose And The Outs"
(Slumberland Records)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Franz Nicolay
"This Is Not A Pipe" (mp3)
from "Luck And Courage"
(Team Science)

More On This Album

Parenthetical Girls
"Young Throats" (mp3)
from "Privilege Pt. II: The Past, Imperfect"
(Slender Means Society)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Di Johnston
"Companion" (mp3)
from "Fascinator"
(Undercover Culture Music)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Jen Wood
"Pills" (mp3)
from "Finds You In Love"
(New Granada Records)

Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

Easy Star Records, Reggae's home here in the US

2010-08-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest feature for the IODA Marketing Blog on the awesome NY Reggae label Easy Star Records:
By: Elijah Carroll

In its 15 year history, New York City's Easy Star Records has produced three of the best-selling and trendsetting reggae albums of the decade - the Easy Star All-Stars' Dub Side of the Moon, Radiodread and Easy Star's Lonely Hearts Dub Band - while building an international brand that has come to signify quality and class. Always embracing the ever-changing musical landscape artistically as well as technologically Easy Star has maximized the digital side of it's business through embracing these changes and a long standing relationship with IODA.

The independent label has created an impressive body of work that includes those above-mentioned in-house productions, along with progressive recordings from envelope-pushing acts like John Brown's Body, The Black Seeds, Tommy T and Ticklah; reissues of classic reggae from the vaults of Sugar Minott and Linval Thompson; new music from reggae legends The Meditations and Sister Carol; and collaborations with international reggae stars like Matisyahu, Luciano, Anthony B and Morgan Heritage.

Easy Star has steadily built a scene that extends in many directions, following any path where reggae leads, bringing together young producers and musicians, reggae stars, and even artists outside the genre who have been influenced by Jamaican music, like Citizen Cope and blues musician/musicologist Corey Harris. Now Easy Star moves forward with the newest member of the Easy Star family Cas Haley who's LP Connection drops September 14th. For Easy Star Connection continues an evolution of the company. “We have been stretching further from being strictly a roots-reggae-only label for a while, with progressive bands and artists like John Brown’s Body, Tommy T and The Black Seeds on the roster,” says Easy Star CEO Eric Smith. “Cas’s sound is unique, accessible, and a great way to keep expanding the Easy Star audience. And it’s not often we come across a singer-songwriter this talented, regardless of genre, so we had to work with Cas.” The label’s musical director, Michael Goldwasser, remixed a version of the single “Better” in a hardcore roots reggae style, which is being included as a bonus track.

I had the good fortune of conducting a brief Q & A session with Eric Smith and Lem Oppenheimer, Easy Star's CEO & COO respectively.

EC: What was the initial motivation for Easy Star All-Stars covering popular rock albums?

ES & LO: "We had been searching for ways to bring reggae to a larger audience without losing the true sound or essence of the music. In our opinion, the songs and albums that crossed over had tended to water down the music or get lost in translation. At the time, we had those thoughts rattling around our heads as a label, so when we had the idea that Dark Side might translate well into reggae, it all clicked. We felt like Dub Side of the Moon gave us a chance to reach out both to rock fans and to reggae fans and that we could be as hardcore reggae as we wanted and still succeed with the project. Once it worked, we wanted to try it again, because it was a fun project, so we turned to Radiohead and the Beatles."

EC: Easy-Star All Stars have managed to stay on the Reggae charts for an amazingly long time. How has the Digital music business helped Easy Star maintain a chart presence for so long?

ES & LO: "We always looked at the Digital music business as an important part of our label. We were one of the first reggae labels to have an interactive website back in 1996 when the online music community was very small and we got involved in digital distribution early on, partnering up with IODA back in October of 2004. This digital retail and marketing helped level the playing field for us. Without being held back by many of the financial obstacles indie labels have had in the physical market, we were able to build our brand more effectively. This has been a key factor in helping the Easy Star All-Stars connect to their global audience. Touring for the band in Russia, South America, the Middle East and other places may never have happened without the spread of our music online."

EC: How has embracing the changing trends in music and the music business helped Easy Star succeed in a time where so many labels are facing trouble?

ES & LO: "From the beginning, it has been about building loyalty from our fans in the Easy Star brand by investing a lot of time and energy into the music we put out. Our preference is to release a small amount of music that has a long shelf life and does not depend on quick sales out of the gate. We have been very careful to sign artists that complement this model. Also, most of our artists are strong touring acts as well, which is critical to marketing right now. All of these factors have allowed us to manage the current challenges in the business."

Grab some great free tracks including songs from Cas Haley and the Easy Star All-Stars:

Cas Haley
"Better" (mp3)
from "Connection (Bonus Tracks Version)"
(Easy Star Records)

More On This Album

Easy Star All-Stars
"Bed Of Rose" (mp3)
from "Until That Day EP"
(Easy Star Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

John Brown's Body
"Amplify" (mp3)
from "Amplify"
(Easy Star Records)

Buy at Easy Star Records
Stream from Rhapsody
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

The Black Seeds
"Slingshot" (mp3)
from "Solid Ground"
(Easy Star Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Sugar Minott
"Dreader Than Dread" (mp3)
from "Ghetto-ology + Dub"
(Easy Star Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

IODAcast 073 now live featuring: Moe Pope, Christopher Willits, Oh No Ono

2010-07-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

The latest episode of the podcast I produce - IODAcast 073 is now live featuring: Moe Pope, Christopher Willits, Oh No Ono and more.

Listen at IODAcast.com or at iTunes and download the tracks to go below:

Asleep at the Wheel, Leon Rausch
"Truck Driver's Blues (feat. Willie Nelson)" (mp3)
from "It's a Good Day"
(Bismeaux Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Grand Mal
"Lower Yer Heart (feat. Ken Griffin)" (mp3)
from "Clandestine Songs"
(Groover Recordings)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Moe Pope
"Rock Me II" (mp3)
from "Life After God"
(Brick Records)

More On This Album

Oh No Ono
"Icicles" (mp3)
from "Internet Warrior"
(Friendly Fire Recordings)

More On This Album

Christopher Willits
"Sun Body" (mp3)
from "Tiger Flower Circle Sun"
(Ghostly International/SMM)

More On This Album

Phronesis
"Eight Hours" (mp3)
from "Alive"
(Edition Records)

More On This Album

Check out the new episode of the podcast I co-produce

2010-06-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I produce the IODAcast podcast for my job and today I posted the latest episode, which features my good friend Sean Han's band Blip Blip Bleep. Check it out here on iodacast.com or on iTunes!

Blip Blip Bleep is gonna rock you Like a Track Star!

2010-06-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the upcoming LP from my homie Sean Han's awesome electro-rock band Blip Blip Bleep:
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Blip Blip Bleep
Title: Like Track Stars
Label: Undercover Culture Music
Genre: Alternative : Electronic
UPC: 884501317788
Territory: World
Release Date: 06.29.10

NY electro-rockers Blip Blip Bleep are readying for the release of their new record Like Track Stars. Blip Blip Bleep is the work of producer/singer/guitarist Sean Han, with the help of singer/keyboardist Alexa Danner and drummer Jojo Schwarz. After 2 stellar EPs (2007's Wireless and 2008's Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up) they have decided to go the distance on this new record and make a full-length LP. Alarm Clock told a day in the life story of an urban 20-something, and Like Track Stars expands on the idea of a concept album to follow the arc of a relationship, from a first date through breaking up and moving on.

After the non-stop action of their first two EPs, Like Track Stars shows the maturity of BBB. A true concept album, Like Track Stars charts the arc of a typical relationship through a 9 song journey. From the excitement and nervousness at the beginning ("Rock" and "Freak You Out") to the inevitable lull in the middle ("Don't Forget" and "Like Track Stars") and the let down at the end ("Rewrite The Scenes") BBB keeps the beat going with their infectious electro-rock. Somehow amidst the telling of the story BBB even manages to incorporate a cover of The Cure's "Letter To Elise" and make it fit perfectly with the rest of the album.

Like Track Stars showcases BBB's now fully formed sound. Through the first two EPs BBB's sound seemed to be still exploring the electro side of electro-rock. Now on Like Track Stars BBB have figured out how to make electronic music that rocks! Sean's masterful arrangements are beautifully executed by the trio of talented musicians. Alexa shines on her recorded debut with BBB after a year of playing in the live show, adding sweet harmonies throughout the album and duets on "Rewrite The Scenes" and the title track. The record is perfectly mixed by Nic Hard who also contributes the remix of "Freak You Out" that appears on the album. Dave Liang (Shanghai Restoration Project) rounds out the record with a great remix of "Rock" closing out the stellar 11 track LP. BBB have really hit the mark with this one and have made the leap from a pop fascination to a real powerhouse talent.

Check out the music video for their 1st single off of Like Track Stars:

And grab a free copy of the single as well!

Blip Blip Bleep
"Freak You Out" (mp3)
from "Like Track Stars"
(Undercover Culture Music)

More On This Album

The time for Typhoon is now!

2010-04-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the upcoming debut record Hunger and Thirst by my new favorite band Typhoon!
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Typhoon
Title: Hunger and Thirst
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Indie : Symphonic Rock
UPC: 751937382829
Territory: World
Release Date: 05.04.10

Portland, Oregon based music collective Typhoon is set to release their debut record Hunger and Thirst May 4th on Tender Loving Empire. Renowned in Portland for several years for their amazing, sometimes spontaneous house concerts, Typhoon has finally managed to capture their sound on an LP. With a core band of 7 members and up to 17 contributors Typhoon's depth shines on this new record. Lead by the acoustic guitar and enrapturing vocals of Kyle Morton, Typhoon is poised to break out with Hunger and Thirst. With an average age of 22 Typhoon's well developed sound belies their age. From tender honest ballads to rousing gospel vocal arrangements Hunger and Thirst is a record that takes the listener on an amazingly mature emotional ride.

The timing couldn't be better for this record. The indie folk movement has steadily gained momentum over the past decade and exploded in the past few years with bands like the Fleet Foxes, Blitzen Trapper and Beirut. Following on the heels of 2009 indie folk standouts Bon Iver, Grizzly Bear, and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Hunger and Thirst has Typhoon ready to join these illustrious ranks. I'm sure many more comparisons and classifications for Typhoon will be thrown around, but the truth is that while they share elements with many of these bands, they have created their own unique sound and found a niche within today's indie music world. Hunger and Thirst is a brilliant representation of that sound and an invitation in to their world.

Hunger and Thirst opens with a solitary shaker and grows to the horn-filled, harmony choir backed full band sound all within the opener "Starting Over Bad Habits." Kyle Morton's compelling voice dances effortlessly over the acoustic guitar and percussion driven music. The lyrics are frank and honest bringing the listener in to his story. "CPR / Claws Pt. 2" builds throughout it's epic 7 minutes, beautifully displaying the power of Typhoon's well mixed multi-layered arrangements. Fittingly, producer Paul Laxer recorded Hunger and Thirst in Morton and his bandmates' old Victorian-style rental house. That house can be heard all over the record allowing the listener to experience Typhoon in their natural element. The 43 second "Mouth of the Cave" epitomizes that experience, it's spirited live gospel choir sound placing the listener in the midst of the collective. The more somber "Belly of the Cavern" and stark, tender closing ballad "The Sickness Unto Death" bring the emotional ride of Hunger and Thirst to a close. Slowly bringing us down from the high of the middle of the record. Overall Hunger and Thirst flows beautifully from track to track and tells a story through it's emotional scape that we can all identify with.

While you wait for the record grab 3 stellar tracks off of Hunger and Thirst right now:

Typhoon
"Starting Over (Bad Habits)" (mp3)
from "Hunger and Thirst"
(Tender Loving Empire)

More On This Album

Typhoon is the next band you want to listen to!

2010-04-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest post for the IODA Marketing Blog on the upcoming Typhoon record Hunger and Thirst. Grab a great track at the end!

Artist: Typhoon
Title: Hunger and Thirst
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Indie : Symphonic Rock
UPC: 751937382829
Territory: World
Release Date: 05.04.10

We cannot wait for the release of Typhoon's debut LP next month on Tender Loving Empire! Apparently we are not alone. Filmmaker Matthew Ross who's apparently slated to make music videos for Typhoon has been posting some teasers on Vimeo to get people fired up for Hunger and Thirst. Check them out here:

Typhoon recording for Hunger and Thirst:

Grab a track off Hunger and Thirst now!:
Typhoon
"Starting Over (Bad Habits)" (mp3)
from "Hunger and Thirst"
(Tender Loving Empire)

More On This Album

Sean Hayes, putting the Soul back in Folk music!

2010-03-15T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the new Sean Hayes record Run Wolves Run. Grab a great track at the end and check out one of his cool music videos.
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Sean Hayes
Title: Run Wolves Run
Label: Sean Hayes
Genre: Folk : Rhythmic Soul
UPC: 844185041652
Territory: World
Release Date: 03.16.10

Sean Hayes is a truly independent success story. Born on August 27, 1969 in New York City, and raised in North Carolina, Hayes began his music career playing traditional American and Irish music with a band called The Boys of Bluehill. He traveled the South, from the Black Mountain Music festival (LEAF Festival) in the Blueridge Mountains down to Charleston, South Carolina and eventually found his way to San Francisco, where he has lived and continued to play music since 1992.

Sean's music just keeps getting better and better and the fan base continues to multiply, from the ground up. The soulful folk-maestro gives us his sixth self-produced album, Run Wolves Run. The album is beautifully crafted and yet still quite raw, with live emotion. Beautiful songs, beautiful singing and stellar playing. The whole record has a warm throwback sound that just magnifies Sean's amazing talents. If it wasn't already, it is now painfully clear that Sean belongs in the upper echelon of current day Folk Troubadours.

Run Wolves Run is Sean's most complete record yet. Everything is perfectly in place for this one. The songs are beautifully written, the arrangements are masterful and the instrumentation is perfect. The whole record has an amazing warmth of sound. The engineering beautifully supports the tone of the record creating a soundspace that is simultaneously inviting and nostalgic. From the opening bars of "When We Fall In" Sean's distinct, soulful voice calls us in to his world. On "Powerful Stuff" Sean gives voice to what we've already discovered. This music of his is indeed powerful stuff. Pure unabashed love is a recurring theme on the record and never before has Sean so clearly voiced his feelings on this topic. From "Open Up A Window" to "So Down" it's clear there will be no holding back or cute poetic metaphors when it comes to love on this record.

Grab the stellar opening track "When We Fall In" here:

Sean Hayes
"When We Fall In" (mp3)
from "Run Wolves Run"
(Sean Hayes)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
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Take a look at the official music video for the same track:

Straight outta MA, Statik Selektah brings the heat!

2010-02-01T11:28:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the new Statik Selektah LP 100 Proof (The Hangover):
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Statik Selektah
Title: 100 Proof (The Hangover)
Label: Brick Records
Genre: Hip-Hop : Rap
UPC: 765481009835
Territory: World
Release Date: 02.02.10

The wait is finally over. After dropping the lead single and lead-up EP late last year, the new Statik Selektah full-length is here! Featuring too many standout rappers to even list here Stat's latest offering is a clear sign that he has taken his game to the next level. No longer just an underground beatmaker, Stat has truly become the new go-to producer laying down joints for albums by Lloyd Banks, M.O.P., Foxy Brown, Saigon and even executive producing The Grand Theft Auto IV soundtrack for Rockstar Games. While many producer-based hip hop albums end up sounding more like unofficial mixtapes, Stat's well developed style and expert mixing allow 100 Proof to avoid that pitfall. What we get instead is a soul-filled sample-laden banger. At 17 tracks this is a true LP, not some 7 track EP with few remixes tacked on.

100 Proof starts off smooth as butter with "So Close, So Far." Bun B's deep vocals flow over Stat's laid back production easing us into the record. Wale also delivers a solid verse and Colin Munroe's vocals fit nicely as a hook. Stat wastes no time getting in to this record dropping the lead single "Critically Acclaimed" next. Featuring Lil Fame, Saigon and Sean P this track really knocks. Exemplifying Stat's signature style of big booming beats, deftly cut samples and live cuts and scratches "Critically Acclaimed" reminds us how Stat got where he is today. "Night People" is a real radio banger replete with an R&B chorus and a soul vocal sample. Expect to hear this one on Hot97 shortly. On "Drunken Nights" Reks, Joe Scudda and J.F.K. reflect on the mistakes made under the influence. Giving some real meaning to the album title this track remains easy to nod to while carrying a real message.

The track order is clearly thought out and of course well mixed, which allows 100 Proof to flow seamlessly from track to track. With so many different rappers it's amazing Stat manages to pull off this feat. With beats ranging from the mellow "So Close, So Far," to the upbeat and fun "Laughing" to the more gangsta "Follow We," Stat showcases his range and versatility. Easily my #1 track "The Thrill Is Gone" features 2 of my favorite NY (now-not-so) underground rappers and a great Biggie sample cut over a laid back boom-bap beat. Styles P and Talib Kweli kill it as usual dropping their effortless flows over Stat's musical accompaniment. There are no let downs at the end of this record as the last 6 tracks feature some of the best production. "The Coast" stands out and fits perfectly with Evidence, Kali and Fashawn's west coast flows. Overall 100 Proof lives up to it's name and further solidifies Stat's place in the upper echelon of hip-hop producers.

Grab a copy of "Night People" to take with you:

Statik Selektah
"Night People (feat. Freeway, Red Cafe & Masspike Miles)" (mp3)
from "100 Proof (The Hangover)"
(Brick Records)

More On This Album

Souls Of Mischief are back doin' what they do best.

2009-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the new Souls of Mischief record Montezuma's Revenge:
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Souls Of Mischief
Title: Montezuma's Revenge
Label: Heiroglyphics Imperium
Genre: Hip-Hop : Rap
UPC: 822497103329
Territory: World
Release Date: 12.1.09

Bay Area hip hop legends and original Heiroglyphics members Souls Of Mischief are back in action with their first full-length album in over 9 years. With the full Souls line-up and production from the illustrious Prince Paul and even guest narration from Del Tha Funkee Homosapien Montezuma's Revenge is an instant Bay Area hip hop classic. To ensure the best possible results on their latest record the Souls took a slightly atypical approach to recording this new record.

“We rented a house near Point Reyes. We stayed in the house for at least a month,” explains Opio. “Prince Paul came out, we had no TVs or distractions, we just did music every day. It kind of seemed like he might be a slave driver, but it didn't come to that, he just let us do our thing. We knew he wanted a highly stylized album, so we just focused on the styles.” “It was cool, because Paul was making us do stuff over, and he really did help produce the record,” adds Tajai. “He had concepts, and its good to have an outside perspective - it was a great process.”

The process paid off as Montezuma's Revenge is on par with classics like the timeless '93 Til Infinity. Combining lyrical skill with humorous skits and hard hitting beats the Souls are at the top of their game. From the classic sound and smooth narrative of "Tour Stories" to the more hyphy and playful "Poets" the Souls clearly haven't lost a step since their early days. On "For Real Y'All" the Souls shine at what they do best. Seamlessly trading bars through the verses and weaving in the refrain the Souls put on a clinic in the lost art of true group rapping. The Souls even poke fun at themselves and their "old school " style on "Morgan Freeman," showing their awareness of their place in the hip hop game. From underground to mainstream, hyphy to backpack the hip hop community would do well to take a page from the Souls book.

Enjoy "Tour Stories" from the lead-up EP of the same name:
Souls of Mischief
"Tour Stories" (mp3)
from "Tour Stories"
(Hieroglyphics Imperium)

More On This Album

The Roots of The Roots are Organix

2009-10-06T15:49:00.001-07:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on The Roots 1st album Organix which was just released digitally for the 1st time ever!

Artist: The Roots
Title: Organix
Label: Groove Distribution
Genre: Rap : Hip-Hop
UPC: 899123000048
Territory: World
Release Date:10.06.09

With 10 albums in the books and the 11th set to release in a few weeks the godfathers of live hip hop's 1st album has finally been released digitally. 16 years after it's original release by Remedy Recordings, Groove Distribution is re-releasing this classic hip hop masterpiece. Full of the live flavor that has garnered millions of followers worldwide, Organix is still the freest and funkiest record The Roots have ever produced. Oozing with style and creative energy it's not hard to see why this album thrust The Roots into the spotlight.

"This album should be a part of any Roots fan's collection — not so much because it is an example of their artistry at its best, but because it allows you to see where they came from and how fruitful of a journey it's been." -Qa'id Jacobs, All Music.

Through the years The Roots line-up has shifted many times with only one thing constant: Black Thought on the mic and ?uestlove on drums. These two have propelled the group from their first record to where they are now. On Organix it is already apparent that these two are primed for greatness. While their style may not be fully formed, their talent and creative energy is abundant. There are definitely a number of stellar contributors on this record and the many to follow, but it is the two founders that have shaped and formed The Roots into the legends they are today.

From the beginning of "Pass The Popcorn" through the end of the amazingly long "The Session" The Roots take us on a playful journey into their live, jazz-influenced brand of hip hop. While many of these cuts are a bit rough around the edges, the groundwork for albums like Do You Want More and Things Fall Apart is already there. Unlike those and most of their other records Organix has a carefree spontaneity that is refreshing especially in today's pop landscape. The loose way in which this album was put together combined with the freedom from major label influence makes this record truly free and independent. As we wait in anticipation of their 11th album we get to savor the first one and remember how it all started for the godfathers of live hip hop.

J. Tillman a man with a voice

2009-09-15T18:31:00.001-07:00

Here's a new review for the IODA Marketing Blog on the new J. Tillman (Fleet Foxes) solo record:
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: J. Tillman
Title: Year in the Kingdom
Label: Western Vinyl
Genre: Indie : Psychedelic Folk
Release Date: 9/15/09
UPC: 656605460222
Territory: Americas, Africa

Year in the Kingdom is the 6th solo release for singer/songwriter J. Tillman. Today most people who are familiar with Tillman know him as the drummer for the acclaimed indie folk band Fleet Foxes. Tillman got his start playing drums for several indie rock bands including Saxon Shore during his college years in New York. On the side he wrote and recorded his own music inspired by folk icons such as Nick Drake and Pete Seeger. Tillman began selling and distributing CD-R demos while playing out and eventually one found it's way to Damien Jurado. After hearing Tillman's songs Jurado decided to bring him on tour as his drummer and occasional opening act. During the tour Tillman became close with Jurado's friend and band-mate Eric Fisher who would later produce Tillman's second effort Long May You Run. As Tillman became more and more involved in the Seattle indie folk scene he befriended several members of the rising band Fleet Foxes. At the end of April 2008 it was announced that J. Tillman was joining the Foxes as their new drummer.

With his latest release Tillman is clearly holding fast to what he does best - pure honest lyrics backed sparsely by an interesting blend of instruments. Hammer dulcimer, recorder, cymbals of varying size and wheezing air organs all help to create the unique backdrop for Tillman's vocals. In contrast to his previous album Vacilando Territory Blues Tillman's latest record does not feature any of the other Foxes or their signature vocal harmonies. Rather Year in the Kingdom is a stark folk record that places Tillman's unaffected voice at the forefront. This album is a true work of art and another glimpse into Tillman's very being. With the whole pop music world becoming increasingly digitized and auto-tuned, it is truly a gift that musicians like Tillman still give us truly honest music.

Though stark and at times almost somber Year in the Kingdom is a record of hope and for those who have followed his solo career clearly his most joyful work to date. The title track has a beautiful happiness to it that seems to convey Tillman's true feelings on life. The moving ballad Earthly Bodies is a celebration of this world we live in and the bodies that hold our spirits. Tillman has established himself as a real folk troubadour and this record clearly places him with the best of his generation. Year in the Kingdom embodies everything we want in a folk record: Honesty and truth with a beautiful stark accompaniment.

Here's a great track off Year in the Kingdom:

J. Tillman
"Earthly Bodies" (mp3)
from "Year in the Kingdom"
(Western Vinyl)

More On This Album

Hip Hop and Soul were meant for each other

2009-08-25T18:59:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest review for the IODA Marketing Blog on Crown City Rockers frontman Raashan Ahmad's new solo record:
By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: Raashan Ahmad
Title: Soul Power
Label: B Sides
Genre: Hip-Hop : Soul
Release Date: 8/25/09
UPC: 844185072250
Territory: World

Since the late 1990's Raashan Ahmad has provided the smooth melodic lyrics for the Bay Area via Boston hip hop group Crown City Rockers. Originally formed in 1997 under the name Mission. Crown City have become a model for those who believe live instruments and hip hop can still be a successful combination. Over ten years later Raashan continues grace our ears with his seamless flows and musical stylings. Last year Raashan branched out with his first solo effort the critically acclaimed Push (Om Music). Now he's back with Soul Power a record that is sure to keep him at the top of the indie hip hop game. With guest appearances from Aceyalone, Ragen Fykes and Alex Newman from Giant Panda this album is a well crafted tour-de-force that allows the listener a chance to really feel Raashan's soul.

"Thirteen original songs mostly recorded in early 2009. After touring the United States to promote my first solo album THE PUSH, I discovered that I wanted to add more bangin’ songs to my live set as well as speak on some more topics that I have been dealing with.

SOUL POWER is the result. When I say “soul power,” I’m talking about about what gives my soul, my spirit power- which is music! This project was especially born out of all that I learned being on the road as well as teaming up with new friends I’ve met along the way which led to some dope collaborations!" -Raashan Ahmad

From the driving upbeat "Move (feat. Aceyalone)" to the layed back old school soul on "Soul Train (feat. Wafeek & Ragen Fykes)" Raashan takes us on a ride through his reality. Soul Power is a true album in this age of MP3's and one track downloads. The music combines old soul sounds with newer electronic production all deftly narrated by Ahmad. His honesty and self awareness make him easily relateable while his smooth intelligent style soothes the ears. Despite having multiple beat makers for the record the tracks flow together beautifully while Raashan takes the listener on a soulful ride you won't want to miss. With his second solo record in as many years and a Crown City album due out this fall Raashan has clearly hit his stride.

Check out this video for the lead track "Mobstar Life":

And here's a track off Crown City's Earthtones:
Crown City Rockers
"Another Day Rhyme Writing" (mp3)
from "Another Day (Rhyme Writing)"
(Insiduous Urban Records, Inc.)

More On This Album

Cultivating Your New Experience

2009-07-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a little review piece I wrote for the IODA Marketing Blog on CYNE's new album Water For Mars. It's real underground hip hop at it's finest.

By: Elijah Carroll

Artist: CYNE
Title: Water For Mars
Label: Hometapes
Genre: Hip-Hop : Indie
Release Date: 8/11/09
UPC: 718122112821
Territory: Americas, Europe, Australia, Africa

CYNE (pronounced "sign") is a Hip Hop quartet out of Gainsville, FL and stands for Cultivating Your New Experience. Comprised of emcees Akin (Akin Yai) and Cise Star (Clyde Graham) and backed by producers Speck (Michael Gersten) and Enoch (David Newell) CYNE is a four man indie hip hop powerhouse. Formed in 2001 in the swamps of Gainsville, CYNE put out a number of releases on various smaller labels until landing on Hometapes for last year's release of their critically acclaimed LP Pretty Dark Things. Now with their second release on Hometapes in as many years CYNE is here to stay. With an initial release in Japan back on May 2nd (P-Vine Records) Water For Mars has already been receiving rave reviews from the blogosphere and is on many indie hip hop best of 2009 lists.

Seven years after their formation CYNE has honed their collective talents and is clearly at the top of their game. The delicate balance between accessible and too mainstream is something many indie hip hop groups struggle with. On Water For Mars it's clear CYNE has mastered that balance while remaining true to themselves and most importantly their music. Speck and Enoch's beats bump with classic samples, thick synths and deep drum sounds. Akin and Cise Star's lyrics are poignant and gritty, rooted firmly in the present with a old school hip hop aesthetic.

At 21 tracks including a revisiting of "Elephant Rome" feat. Daedalus (originally released on Pretty Dark Things) and a remix of "Sleep" by Mexicans With Guns, Water For Mars is a true hip hop journey. In many ways CYNE is following in the footsteps of their most influential predecessors. Perfecting hip hop's ability to tackle racial and political issues while remaining true to the music that started at street parties in Harlem. As their Hometapes page points out:

“Their often politically-charged, culturally-introspective, and motivational lyrics find influence rooted in the early works of Nas, Public Enemy, Outkast and Common Sense. The production could be described as warm, soulful and organic -- born out of the school of producers that cite the likes of RZA, Pete Rock, Jay Dee, and DJ Premier. CYNE's 'sound' is impacted by everything from Bad Brains to Krautrock, from Camp Lo to Kate Bush, from Venezuelan Gaita to West African Highlife -- it's a hybrid of emotional, historical, and challenging influences.”

Here's a track off of Water For Mars:

CYNE
"Pretty Apollo" (mp3)
from "Water For Mars"
(Hometapes)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

Nothing is funnier than indie rap beef

2009-07-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

Seriously now. What could be funnier than white indie rappers beefing? I like this video the best so far especially because EL-P is the pretty much the current Don of east coast underground and Esoteric is, well... not good or interesting anymore.

Canada can Hip Hop!

2009-07-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a review I wrote for the IODA Marketing Blog of Canadian producer/rapper Mantis' debut album titled "Still Life."

By: Elijah Carroll

Mantis
"You Don't Know" (mp3)
Album: Still Life
(Brick Records)
More On This Album
Genre: Hip-Hop : Rap
Release Date: 7/21/09
UPC: 765481500233
Territory: World

"Possibly one of Canada's freshest offspring of the love triangle between funk, soul, and hiphop, rapper/producer Mantis is the essence of urban music personified." -from Mantis' Myspace

Highly melodic beats bump as Mantis deftly spits his intelligent yet accessible lyrics with the skill of a seasoned veteran. From the opening bars of Still Life it's clear there's a new force in Hip Hop coming to us from north of the border.

"Born on the 16th of September 1984, Mantis embodies the love of music passed down to him from his father, a guitarist in a local blues outfit and organizer of many celebrated jazz, blues, and funk festivals in the Southern-Ontario city of Kitchener/Waterloo. First picking up the drumsticks, then the microphone, then finally mastering the art of music production at the Trebas Institute in Toronto, Mantis represents the finest in hiphop culture in all that he creates." -from Mantis' Myspace

Having already produced tracks for the likes of JD Era, Shad K and Point Blank, Mantis is no newcomer to the up and coming Canadian hip hop scene. His track "I Don't Like To" was the lead single to Shad K's 2008 Juno Award nominated album - The Old Prince. With guest appearances on Still Life supplied by Rufus John, Justis, Hajah Bug and others there's no doubt that Mantis in the middle of the freshest hip hop coming out of Canada today. Unfortunately for Mantis and his collaborators, Canadian hip hop still faces a huge challenge when breaking into the American market. Only a few Canadian hip hop artists such as Kardinal Offishaal have achieved any success in America.

Though firmly rooted in the present Mantis' sound is more mid-90's new school than current day. His combination of live instrumentation, soulful samples and melodic flow fit more closely with The Roots than Lil' Wayne. His Lyrics are thoughtful and well crafted without becoming overly wordy. Mantis is clearly steeped in hip hop history and has an amazing sense for blending the past and present. Likewise he carefully toes the line between indie and mainstream referencing and even partially quoting Jay-Z while also sampling Common. From the classic soul samples of "You Don't Know" to the musical layering on "Bounce Back" Mantis displays production talent to match the best in the industry. Combine this with his cool melodic flow and you have the best up and coming rapper/producer since Kanye West.

Mantis has already opened up for Canadian hip hop's biggest star Kardinal Offishaal as well as the K-Os, Jeru the Damaja, and CL Smooth. His talent is undeniable and his craft is clearly honed and ready. The question is whether or not the hip hop world is ready for Mantis. The answer is yet to be determined, but one thing is clear: It is time for American hip hop fans to look to the north and embrace our Canadian neighbors.

Here's one more track for the road:

Mantis
"What? (feat. Justis)" (mp3)
from "Still Life"
(Brick Records)

More On This Album

My buddy Sean Han's Band Blip Blip Bleep Rules!

2009-07-06T15:21:00.001-07:00

Coming off the high of their biggest gig to date (Bowery Ballroom 6/5/09) NYC's Electro rockers Blip Blip Bleep take a little time to breathe and ready themselves for the next project. BBB's members Sean Han, Brett Thompson and Alexa Danner epitomize the struggle of today's indie musician grinding away to make a living in this digital world. Their sophmore EP Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up (April 2008, Undercover Culture Music) puts that daily grind into a 6 song journey that all can relate to.

"This is a concept EP that follows the day in the life of a working 20something in New York City. And it’s really, really good. The songs are catchy, particularly the laid-back “Street Lights” and the sing-along bounce of “Okay Lover.” -- Pop Matters, on Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up EP

Receiving rave reviews from various indie blogs like Angry Asian Man, The Deli NYC and even NME.com's video blog this mini concept album established BBB as a force in NYC's Electro-Pop scene. After rumors of a full-length album in 2009 BBB has decided to follow up Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up with another EP.

"I'm thinking that it will also be a mini concept album... only instead of a day in the life, it will have songs written at different phases in a relationship... kinda starting with a one night stand, developing into a full relationship, then ending, moving on, etc. nothing groundbreaking in terms of a concept, but I think it will make the thing cohesive and will address topics that people (hopefully) can relate to." - BBB frontman Sean Han

A brief history on the Band From BBB.com:

"The project began in December 2006 with the release of the first BBB EP called Wireless. In 2007, Wireless earned BBB a feature on Billboard's Underground series, a #2 spot in Sprint's Buzzband Challenge, and rave reviews from several indie publications and college newspapers.

Meanwhile, Sean (vocals/guitars/keyboard/laptop) and Brett (drums) brought the act onto the NYC rock-scene, with Sarah Lee (keyboards/vocals) joining the project in mid-2007. The trio's dynamic stage presence quickly attracted a loyal fanbase who followed them to top NYC venues including Mercury Lounge, The Annex, Crash Mansion and Luna Lounge.

After a few-month hiatus, the second BBB EP - Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up, was released in April of 2008, accompanied by a short college tour and a CD release party at Mercury Lounge. Strong reviews on the mini-concept album from Pop Matters, The Deli Mag and other parts of the blog-o-sphere helped BBB earn a Saturday night co-headlining spot at Merc, alongside Brassland's Baby Dayliner. Mixed by Nic Hard (The Bravery, Aberdeen City) and mastered by Nathan James (Blondie, Staind), the EP tells a day in the life story of an urban 20-something coming of age and struggling with work, love, and loneliness."

As we patiently wait for their third EP BBB has given us a little something to tide us over: A cover of the 80's classic, "Send Me An Angel" by Real Life. Give it a listen here.

You can also see this post over at the awesome IODA Marketing blog here!

Blip Blip Bleep
"Anime Eyes" (mp3)
from "Wireless"
(Undercover Culture Music)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Stream from Rhapsody
More On This Album

Blip Blip Bleep
"Okay Lover" (mp3)
from "Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up - EP"
(Undercover Culture Music)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Stream from Rhapsody
More On This Album

Blip Blip Bleep
"Da Me Cinco" (mp3)
from "Alarm Clock, Snooze Bar, Get Up - EP"
(Undercover Culture Music)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
More On This Album

New gig and welcome back.

2009-07-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

M.O.M.M. is back in action.

I am happy to say I'm now spending part of my week here! Keep an eye on our site for great reviews, features and tips on indie artists of all genres.

(gratuitous half naked rocker shot)

Back to the music. Lately I've been listening to a lot of new stuff. Some examples include Abstract Rude, Mantis, Papercuts and MOA (at left)! I also recently found this link to the first Willy Mason EP which is awesome as usual. If you don't have his two full-length records please go out and check them out. Amazing folk music from a buddy of mine from back home.

Spring is here! Go See Live Music!

2009-04-08T12:37:00.001-07:00

I am so fired up right now! April is the month that I start going to lots of good shows again! Here's a look at the definites thus far! Atmosphere and Fleet Foxes on back to back nights at 2 amazing venues neither of which have I visited yet!!! Thanks to JamBase for the concert calendar.

Spider Man the musical by U2!

2009-04-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

This just struck me as hilarious for some reason!
Open casting so go try-out!

To think just a few years back none of this existed

2009-04-01T00:43:00.000-07:00

It's truly amazing how fast the digital online revolution has changed the face of music as we know it.

Del's new album Free Download!

2009-03-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

Del the Funky Homosapien will offer his new album, Funk Man (The Stimulus Package) for free download at this website.

Atmosphere Rules!

2009-03-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

John Legend, Q-Tip and still Ben Folds

2009-02-17T17:22:00.000-08:00

This one's a bit overdue as I clearly haven't been updating much lately. Fortunately, I haven't gotten into any newer albums so these 3 are still in heavy rotation. First up John Legend's Evolver. Wow, thank god mp3's don't wear out cuz I definitely would have worn out the tape on a few of these tracks. Overall I think the album is quite good, however a few tracks are simply stellar. My fave of the bunch has been Quickly feat. Brandy. Something about when she comes in that just gets me and when they hit the chorus in harmony I'm good to go.

Thanks to one of my co-workers I didn't overlook Q-tip's last solo joint The Renaissance any longer! Something about his past solo efforts had made me overlook this one initially, but boy am I glad that didn't last too long. Bam! This album is a tour-de-force for the man who used to be the better known half of A Tribe Called Quest's MC duo. The track We Fight, We Love featuring Raphael Saadiq is one of my favorites as Tip's smooth verses blend seamlessly with Saadiq's chorus. The gem though has to be You. A tale of deception where the production, content and lyrics all showcase Tip's masterful style. You gotta feel him on this one and maybe even feel for him.

Last but certainly not least Ben Folds Fall '08 record Way To Normal. I just cannot seem to get this one out of my playlists! And while overall this is probably not my favorite Ben Folds record a few of the cuts on it are just fantastic. As many have noted this record comes on the heels of a divorce and is certainly filled with quite a bit of anger. Cuts like Bitch Went Nuts and Brainwascht clearly show his need to vent some of his anger. In contrast Cologne is a tender ballad where we see the emotional side of living such a rollercoaster life. I'm a big fan of sleepers The Frown Song and Free Coffee. Something about the soundscapes and emotions on those two cuts just gets me. I balked at $50 to see him last fall with Missy Higgins and then regretted it all the way to the bank. Thankfully I got a second chance and will be checking out his show at The Fox Theater Oakland!

Lupe Fiasco and The Postal Service

2008-07-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

This is basically the re-cap of my spring faves. Starting with my spring obession: The Postal Service's Give Up. Ok ok I realize this album came out in 2003, but I was a bit behind the curve on this one. Truthfully I've been a little too immersed in underground hip hop since 2002 so it's not really a surprise that it took me this long. All that notwithstanding I absolutely love the first half of this album! It loses me a little bit towards the end, but overall it is a great album. Ben Gibbard's almost strained vocals work perfectly over the glitchy electronic soundscapes.
Lupe Fiasco's The Cool was another great spring fave of mine. I was a bit reluctant to get into Lupe due to his commercial success, but after much urging by trusted sources I went out and bought a copy. Am I glad I did! Lupe clearly defies the stereotypes of popular rap by producing intelligent music with a mass appeal. His charisma and lyrical skill shine through on The Cool making it one of the better rap albums in the past year.

Elvis Costello and The Police at Shoreline!

2008-07-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

I got given free tix to go see Elvis Costello and The Police down at Shoreline last night! One word for this: Radtastic! Two acts I have never seen, would love to see and wouldn't have ponied up the dough and driven down to Shoreline for. Thank you to my good friend Kirk for hooking it up and driving us down there.

First off, I had never been to Shoreline before. Let me tell, you while every major Amphitheater may look pretty much identical, Shoreline is definitely a nice one! The surroundings, atmosphere and quality of the grass on the lawn were all wonderful. We got a nice patch o' grass dead center and set up camp for the evening. Elvis Costello came on at exactly 7:26pm and launched straight into a rocking 55 min set featuring many of his radio hits. While his voice was quite hoarse he still rocked hard and even brought Sting out to sing Alison with him!
After a nice little set break during which I investigated the Corona Beach House (no beaches or houses to be found there but a lot of beer), Bob Marley's Get up, Stand Up played over the PA and people did just that. It was a great example of my theory that everyone loves Reggae and every other music really just wants to be Reggae. I mean look at The Police! Speaking of which, they played an awesome set full of the radio hits. These guys still got it and one could tell they're psyched to be playing together. Stewart Copeland was impressive as usual and had some awesome percussion jams that included a huge gong!

All in all it was an awesome night of music, friends and fun. I'm psyched that the opportunity arose and that I got over a somewhat unfounded fear of going to Shoreline!

OK OK

2008-07-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

So, I have been seriously slacking on filling up this blog with wonderful posts (or any posts at all). Without further ado here it goes.

Welcome to my blog

2008-03-06T18:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my brand new blog! This blog will be devoted to music and specifically to music that I am currently listening to, thinking about, wondering about, etc. Hence the title "Music on My Mind." Hope you enjoy!