Monthly Archives: May 2012

NEW MUSIC | SBTRKT – “Gamelena”

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The one-and-only SBTRKT recently uploaded a new song (demo to be exact) to his soundcloud. As I rushed to hear “Gamelena,” I wondered if it would sound like his breakthrough album, one of the last year’s best.  Needless to say it did, purely experimental and hypnotic.  As the track played, I got lost in the synths and vibed endlessly as if it was the best rave ever.  Though “Gamelena” will not appear on any follow-up releases, it certainly leaves us fans thirsty for more.

*Goes back to space*

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NEW MUSIC | Carlitta Durand – “Blown Out”

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If you can’t tell by now, we here at SOM are big fans of Carlitta Durand. With an intriguing blend of melodic tones, pleasurable vocals, and a sound that can be summed up as the next (yes, that’s a huge statement to make), the North Carolina- based artist is quite impressive. As she prepares to drop her new album I’ll Be Gorgeous When I die, she dropped this oh-so-brief introduction of what awaits on the full length LP. The first single, “Blown Out” sounds like J*DaVeY meets Miguel. I like.

Expect I’ll be Gorgeous When I Die August 12. Be sure to support her via her kickstarter page.

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LIVE | Beyoncé at Revel Resort

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Nearly a year since the release of the critically-acclaimed 4, there is no denying that the past several months have been a complete whirlwind for Beyoncé. There was the tragic album leak, the well-publicized business split from her dadager, the music video controversies, and of course, the good, bad and ugly surrounding the beautiful birth of her first child, Blue Ivy Carter.

And then came a little announcement. Much to the delight of her loyal fans (affectionately known as The Beyhive), Beyoncé decided that a little noise and frenzy would not send her into the shadows of the limelight—in fact, it sent her back to the stage, to remind the world that she still wore the crown. After months of intense anticipation, Beyoncé kicked off her four-night residency at Revel Resort and accomplished her mission, as the stage reunited with it’s Queen.

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NEW MUSIC | BamaLoveSoul Presents “Y’all Feel That?”: Erykah Badu Remixes & Covers

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 Erykah Badu’s music has been nestled in what can only be defined as edge since day one.  Forever evolving, transparent, and inspiring, The Analogue One has enraptured our ears with her artistic gifts all the while expanding our minds with  her pursuit of freedom. Intersecting genre and yielding no limits, her sound has grown to be a treasure of sorts.

DJ Rahdu of BamaLoveSoul created this transfixing assortment of audio bliss by E. Badu all for your listening pleasure. Boasting features by My Morning jacket, Melo-X, Jesse Boykins III, and much more, this mix is so worth the listen.

Oh Erykah’ How Great Thou Art?

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NEW VIDEO | Jay-Z & Kanye West – “No Church In The Wild” (feat. Frank Ocean)

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And who said the day of the music video was dead?

Jay-Z and Kanye West have unveiled the visual for the Frank Ocean-assisted “No Church In The Wild” and it definitely delivers the action-packed caliber that one would expect from such an groundbreaking union of artists.

While the Roman Gavras-directed clip will certainly garner in plenty of controversy, there is no denying that this is the strongest video to come from any of Watch The Throne‘s official singles. If this doesn’t heighten excitement for the rumored Watch The Throne 2, I don’t know what will.

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NEW MUSIC | Bobby Womack – “Dayglo Reflection” (feat. Lana Del Rey)

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Bobby Womack has been called the greatest soul singer in the World. After listening to his extensive catalog and watching his live performances, such a statement is befitting for the living legend. After a 12 year hiatus he has returned with a brand new LP, The Bravest Man In The Universe (out June 12).

Two singles have been released thus far, the equally impressive  “Please Forgive My heart” and the album’s title track. Now with his latest release, “Dayglo Reflection” a collaboration with sullen chanteuse Lana Del Ray, his comeback receives its best moment yet. The stunning piano-laced ballad is a flawless marriage between the soul pioneer and the throw back siren. Complete with masterful harmonies, vocals, and lyrics, this is stellar to say the least.

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FLASHBACK | Janet Jackson

Posted on by amir jamar
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I’ll never forgive the world for turning their backs on a true icon that we all know by one name: Janet. During the 80s and 90s, Ms. Jackson conquered all—the charts, the critics, and of course, the stage.

With the release of masterpieces like Control, Rhythym Nation 1814 and The Velvet Rope, Janet not only reigned as a global superstar, but also pioneered new eras of pop, R&B and dance music. As a performer, she wrote the book for every female entertainer that emerged after her, electrifying international audiences with her effortless talent and fearless confidence.

At SOM, Janet is never forgotten and always respected. To honor her impact, let us venture back to her legendary performance of “Control” at 1987′s American Music Awards. Classic in every sense of the word.

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LIVE | Robert Glasper & Lalah Hathaway – “Cherish The Day”

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Black Radio is one of my favorite releases this year, hands down. It’s a collective of awe-inspiring  jazz sounds fused with perfectly placed collaborations with some of souls best talents.  Lalah Hathaway lent her golden pipes to the Sade classic “Cherish The Day”. Not only has it become my favorite cut from the album, it’s also the most impressive. To take a Sade standard and rework it into this stunning musical piece takes true gull and talent.

When I saw that a live video finally surfaced,  I knew it was going to be major. On the vocal front alone, Ms. Hathaway soars to new heights and finessed the track in only a way that the vocally blessed can. This  performance right here is superior, flawless, and every other word for greatness one can conjure.

Press play and get lifted.

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NEW MUSIC | Meshell Ndegeocello – “Petite Mort” [Miguel Migs Remix]

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Meshell Nedegeocello has always been an artist who basks in sensuality. With her music, she dives into forbidden territory with nerve and as a long time fan I’ve appreciated that. In her latest release, a remix to “Petite Mort”  by Miguel Migs, the seductive track which translates to orgasm in English receives a slight lift in terms of pace, however the erotic tone remains present. Certainly something to add to your collection.

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NEW MUSIC | Py – “Tripping On Wisdom” [Mixtape]

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After unleashing the splendiferous hypnosis of “Lungs,” we predicted that Py‘s debut mixtape, Tripping on Wisdom, would be nothing short of sonic euphoria. After diving into the 35-minute collection of intoxicating electronic treasures, the mixtape didn’t exactly meet our high expectations. It surpassed them.

Venturing between ferocious dance floor show-stoppers and unexpected mid-tempo opulence, Tripping on Wisdom is a flawless exhibition of Py’s artistic versatility. From start to finish, Py’s sweet, unique and sensual harmonies accentuate the gratifying quality of the mixtape’s production—making for an introduction that is bold, impressive and simply unforgettable.

Click here for free download…

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NEW VIDEO | Lianne La Havas – “Is Your Love Big Enough?”

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When discussing music’s leading class of swiftly-rising artists, Lianne La Havas is a name that cannot be left out. In less than two years, her refreshingly-raw talent has generated quite a mouth-watering anticipation of her every move. As she preps the release of her debut album, Is Your Love Big Enough? (due July 9th in the UK) , the enchanting singer/songwriter has released a video for the LP’s title track.

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LIVE | Jhene Aiko – “Stranger” For The Fader

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With the new crop of emerging talent, there is one name that stands out from the pack,  Jhene Aiko. Her debut mixtape, the  highly praised Sailing Soul(s) not only garnered her a heavy fanbase, but also a record deal with Def Jam. The singer-songwriter was recently featured in The Fader’s & Captain Morgan’s “Step Into The Black” series. As she hit the stage to perform fan-favorite “Stranger”, Jhene was simply mesmerizing. Peep her shining moment and interview below.

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TO DONNA SUMMER

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Such a voice, such a diva, such a legend, Donna Summer. She defined an era and inspired millions with her timeless music. A true talent, Mrs. Summer’s was not only a gifted singer, but a writer as well. Though her wonderfully rich voice has been silenced, her music will remain immortal. A little black girl who famously inspired David Bowie and Duran Duran. It was she who opened the door for the likes of Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Beyonce to experiment with dance music.

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STREAM | Sonnymoon’s Debut Album

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There is no denying the magic of Sonnymoon. With their all encompassing talents they have created a sound all their own, full of layered and harmonious production weaved with beauteous vocals. Ever since their debut Golden Age the anticipation for their full-length LP has increased.  Their self-titled opus is now available now. Stream it in full below.

Based on what I’ve heard this far, I’ll just say wow. Be sure to catch them on one of their live dates.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

June 14th – Portland, OR – Crown Room w/ Knxwledge
June 15th – Seattle, WA – Vermillion w/ Knxwledge
June 16th – Vancouver, BC – The Waldorf Hotel w/ Knxwledge
June 19th – San Francisco, CA – Public Works w/ Devonwho, B. Lewis
June 20th – San Jose, CA – The Pagoda at Fairmont Hotel w/ Devonwho, B. Lewis
June 21st – Fresno, CA – Fulton 55 w/ Devonwho, B. Lewis
June 22nd – Los Angeles, CA – The Echo w/ Mndsgn + Special Guests TBA
June 23rd – San Diego, CA – Kava Lounge w/ Mndsgn

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NEW VIDEO | Gossip – “Move In The Right Direction”

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And today is the day that all Gossip fans rejoice—the new album is finally here! To celebrate its long-awaited release, the band have released the video for “Move In The Right Direction” and undoubtedly, it only makes today even more of an excitement. Click here to watch the video and here to add A Joyful Noise to your collection.

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