I don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes with this album, but I’ll co-sign for NoYork. And from what I hear this isn’t the final version of the album. Well if it’s anything close or above, it’s good in my book. I’ve been listening to Blu’sNoYork for a few days and it has a comfortable awkwardness to it. Let me explain, NoYork feels like a Blu album, but with an experimental kick that works. I mean he’s got Jack Davey, Jimette Rose, Nia Andrews, Ca$hus King, and a gang of other folks featured on here. NoYork, to me seems, like a natural progression that feels new. If that makes any sense or not, check it out for yourself. If it’s still available you can download Blu – NoYork at DefSounds.com. If it’s gone you can also check it out on SoundCloud. When an official version of NoYork drops, BUY IT! BIG thanks to the talented and lovely Dahlia (chief editor for B+C) for the heads up.
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Blu – Above Crenshaw ft. Ca$hus King
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Posted by aaronon September 29, 2010 event, update /
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Oh yes, it’s that time again. October 2nd is going to be off the hook. The Boombox crew has come up with some heat for this line up. Ced No, Coultrain and Black Spade making up the incredible group the Hawthorne Headhunters.  If you don’t know them yet, this is your chance to hear their great sound.  Also keep an eye out for the Hawthorne Headhunters LP and their individual projects. Next on the bill my man Blu and his band No York. Blu is everywhere right now including a couple of tracks on The Roots new album. Blu is also getting ready to drop an LP, so keep your ears open. Show up at Boombox and catch a sneak peek to both groups and their new joints. Gotta love the first Saturday of every month, so get your dancing shoes, all of your friends, and head out to the Boombox. BIG thanks to the Boombox crew Inka One, Ben Diggin, and One Man Jazzfor putting on dope events.
Posted by aaronon June 15, 2010 album, download /
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kyLA introduced me to TiRon one summer hanging out at the Do Over. Ever since then I’ve been keeping a close eye on this talented cat. Last year he dropped Ketchup and this year it’s MSTRD.  Just like a food fight, but without the mess and a whole lot of fun.  TiRon’sMSTRD quickly became a part of my heavy rotation playlist. And don’t sleep on the video to Ms. Right featuring Ayomari.Download TiRon – MSTRD here.  Also check out TiRon’s other releases Ketchup and Handshakes & Ponds.  BIG thanks TiRon for making the music.
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TiRon ft. Ayomari – Ms. Right
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Posted by aaronon June 07, 2010 album /
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My man Niles is always on the grind, and one of his many projects that I’m honored to write a post on is Notes For Haiti.  There are horrific events and disasters that hit home everyday, and when it passes for some, we must remember there are others still struggling through recovery and need our help. Notes For Haiti is a full length compilation with an all star cast.  They not only want you to help the people of Haiti, but want you to nod your head to the beat.  Please donate anything that you can and download Notes For Haiti on BandCamp.  For more information on Oxfam America click here. BIG thanks Niles for all that you do brotha.
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Astro – Underdogs feat. MEDaphor
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Posted by aaronon June 22, 2009 update, video /
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When the Turntable Lab has another in-store, GO! It was dope. Exile got the crowd movin, then Fashawn breaks out the mic. They give everyone a greeting and bust into the tracks from the upcoming album Boy Meets World. To keep the party going Exile kicks out some crazy beats on the MPC in between tracks. They set that place ablaze. There were are handful of guest apperences by Aloe Blacc, Evidence, and Planet Asia. But the kicker was the folks in the crowd like The Alchemist, El Prez, Blu, and Iriscience. I started leaving and noticed this other cat walking to Turntable Lab and it’s Houseshoes. The place was filled with Hip Hop that night, so next time show up. Getta copy of Boy Meets World when it breaks.
Posted by aaronon May 25, 2009 event, update /
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This is Beats+Crates 100th post and it’s only fitting that it is for a special event, Jay $tay Paid. Please take the time to read about Ma Dukes battle with Dilla’s legacy and her health. If you still haven’t discovered the genius of J Dilla, think of your favorite artist, and Dilla has most likely done a track for/with them. Come out and show your support to Dilla (G.O.A.T.). All proceeds go to Ma Dukes Yancey! Jay $tay Paid in stores June 2nd on Nature Sounds Records. BIG thanks for Fusicology for keeping the party going.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
open: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM, age: 21+
cover: $5.00 & $5 before 11PM & $10 after 11PM
Grand Star
943 Sun Mun Way (N. Broadway), Los Angeles, tel: 213-626-2285
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Posted by aaronon March 06, 2009 download, mixtape /
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I guess people weren’t spelling it right, but Blu has been out for minute. This mixtape “Her Favorite Colo(u)r” reminds me when he hooked up with Exile on “Below the Heavens.” Kick back hip hop with lots of creativity on the beats. I mean using samples of the movie Closer…who would have seen that coming. Made me want to watch it again! BIG thanks to Okayplayer on this one.
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