Posts from — August 2009

Released: 04/08/2009

I have lots of superlatives in stock for Tanya Morgans “Brooklynati” that was released back in may. The album is still on iTunes list of the top ten best selling hiphop albums.  Their soulful, positive old school vibe with most of the elements I look for in modern hiphop. “Never enough” features the lovely Carlitta Duran on vocals and got that late summer atmosphere you’d want from a song about unconditional love.

Brooklynati is Tanya Morgan’s third project following the success of “Moonlighting” and “The Bridge”. Since Von Pea, Ilyas, and Don Will formed Tanya Morgan in 2003, they have received high praise. References to artists such as De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest is very much justified. Based on the fictitious city of Brooklynati, this release pushes the boundaries of a concept album by incorporating not only lyrical imagery but also cultivating a culture and mindset.

Now, to celebrate the album’s success and the release of the trio’s “Never Enough” iTunes single, Tanya Morgan is giving aspiring producers an opportunity to remix the single. Native Instruments, 2dopeboyz, Tanya Morgan, Interdependent Media, Society Original Products, and Audible Treats have joined forces and are proud to present the “Brooklynati’s Got Talent Remix Contest.” After downloading the Acapella of “Never Enough,” featuring Tanya Morgan’s and Carlitta Durand’s vocals, contestants will have two weeks to craft their best beat and submit their remixed version of the song to be judged by Tanya Morgan and their label, Interdependent Media.

You’ll find everything you need to know about the competition HERE!

Listen to the song | Buy the single from iTunes | MySpace | Amazon |

To celebrate the release of Brownswood Bubblers 4 on the 24th of August 2009, the lovely people at Brownswood Recordings have put together a special ‘Best Of Bubblers Mixtape’ featuring a selection of some of their favourite tracks from all four Bubblers compilations.

If your new to the Bubblers series, then this will give you a taste of what they are all about. If your a seasoned Bubbler then this mix is sure to push all the right buttons and set you up nicely for BB4.

The Tracklist is as follows:
1. Soundspecies – Can We Call It Love (with Ahu) [BB4]
2. Simbad feat. Steelo – Soul Fever [BB1]
3. Bullion – Get Familiar [BB3]
4. NSM – The Hype [BB2]
5. Katalyst feat. Steve Spacek – How Bout Us [BB3]
6. Cornish Waters feat. Duchess – Walking [BB2]
7. Ayak & First Man – Can We Go Back? [BB1]
8. DJ Day – A Place To Go [BB3]
9. Mayer Hawthorne – Maybe So, Maybe No [BB4]
10. Iman – Who Was I Trying To Fool [BB1]
11. Flying Lotus – Tea Leaf Dancers [BB2]
12. New Look – Everything [BB4]

For me, the label have provided quality from day one, including compilations, singles and albums. If you haven’t checked out the label yet, I suggest you do!

Download the mix HERE

Released: 22/06/2009

It has been a while since my last post, the reason being extensive traveling. Over the past month I have been to London, Ibiza and Barcelona – all providing new musical experiences and inspiration. One tuesday a few weeks ago I went to the Notting Hill Arts Club and Marina and the Diamonds did a live gig at the intimate underground venue. I was unaware of the Welch-born, London-based Marina Diamandis, but the Arts Club is great for both discovering new talent and to hear good djs and electronic artists.

Marina impressed me both with her voice and her presence on stage. The crowd was special as well, made up of a large proportion of her friends. Her voice is distinct and powerful, yet fragile and sweet. Comparisons to Florence and the Machine is not too far off. ”I Am Not A Robot” is the lead track from ‘The Crown Jewels EP’, released through Neon Gold on 22nd June 2009. Check out the video here, and a live BBC recording of “Mowgli’s road” here. After releasing her first single, she has appeared live at Glastonbury and her tour schedule is now filled with both UK and international dates. One to watch!

MySpace | MySpace