2AM Club Featuring Chiddy – Every Evening: I just might have found a new group to follow in 2012. I have heard three solid songs by this group. I really enjoy this song with the additional lyrics from Chiddy from Chiddy Bang makes this song a piece of dope-ness!

Birdy – 1901 (Phoenix Cover): It’s crazy how they’re more and more cover songs that are better than the original songs. I do not think I was a fan of the original song but I am a fan of this cover. Any cover song with a female vocalist is more awesome than the original.

Cris Cab – One Thing: This guy kind of reminds me of Robin Thicke, not because he’s White, no! He has this Soul, Pop thing going on with the way he delivers the lyrics in this song. I like the beat, produced by Pharell Williams; very different from The Nuptunes’ usual bass and snare.

The Concept – GIMME TWICE: This is super catchy, like Target commercial catchy from the first second this song begins to play. I wonder was that the thing they were shooting for, catchy, commercial song. Good, fun music for a Saturday night. Enjoy!

Foxes – Youth: I instantly loved this song from the moment it hit my ears. The lead vocalist voice is amazing and the beat is great. The beat has this Dance, bass sound going on with it that kind of brings out the lead vocalist voice. This is a great song.

Get People – Macaw: I am not sure what genre this song would land in; it’s a little bit of everything. There is a little Electronica, Dancehall, Pop, and Alternate. This group makes this sound work for them. There is a unique but familiar feel to this song; it’s very enjoyable.

The Guillemots – I Don’t Feel Amazing Now (Mooli Remix): I like everything with this song, this song is so good I do not want to hear the original song. The vocals are meaningful and the beat is body moving. Strange because the song’s lyrics are somber but the beat really brings out the lyrics.

Jayy Fresh – Sickness & Collapse: So, Jayy Fresh begun following me on Twitter and I’ve noticed she’s a MC therefore decided to check her work out. Her work has this classic, soulful, true Hip-Hop feel to it. These two songs really caught my ear and I had to feature them this week. From me and my PCS family, let’s give a big welcome to Jayy Fresh to Fresh Fridays. If you want to check out more of her work, click here:  http://soundcloud.com/jayy-fresh

Jay-Z Featuring B.I.C. – Glory: As you might know (or not know) I am not the biggest Jay-Z fan BUT this is a great song; it’s about his daughter. There is a beautiful thing in these lyrics, congrats Shawn Carter.

M3SA – Heart Throb: To think I almost passed up on this song. Allow me to share a tale with you all how this song made its way onto Fresh Fridays. I listened to this song once and I was indifferent at first. I gave it a second listen on my speakers and every member in my household was body rocking, dancing, and just moving to the beat. Shazam! It’s here on Fresh Fridays thanks to my family.

Mansions On The Moon – Rest Of Your Days: I’ve featured quite a few songs from this group because they’re growing on me, I think I just might actually like this group. This song is very mellow and laid back; the vocals and lyrical content are very Folk with an abstract feel to it.

The-Dream – ROC: I am still waiting on another “Wedding Crasher” type of song from The-Dream. I am not a big fan of The-Dream because his music and song content just doesn’t really appeal to me. ROC is another song of his that I am feeling shoulder shrugs toward. Hey, don’t take my word for, it give this song a listen for yourself.

Tony Williams Featuring Wale, Emilio Rajas, and Macklemore – Blazin’ High: This is my Jam of the week! Who is Tony Williams? Well you all might have heard his voice featured on many Hip-Hop songs but he is known for his background vocals on many Kanye West’s songs; (Heard ‘Em Say, Say You Will, and All  of the Lights just to name a few.) I have always loved the sound of his voice, kind of an 808’s and the Heartbreak sound to his voice. Bottom line this is a dope a$$ song and he has a new mixtape out today called, Some Of My Best Friends Are Rappers. Check it out!

Tune-Yards – Gangsta: I don’t know what to say about this song because it’s just too fantastic for words. I really like this song therefore you should also!

Youth Lagoon – July: This is a great song; I honestly mean that from the bottom of my heart. I really enjoy this song for its low vocals to its awesome build up. This song becomes sunshine to my ears at 2:49, magic!

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays Vol. 21

Problem is, all these “famous for nothing” heffers eventually wanna be famous for something, and that’s when the whole house of Gucci comes tumblin’ down!!! I could forgive Amber’s turn at acting in Game of Roses 2: The Scissor Fight (unfortunately, that is NOT a real subtitle for the movie!), because if nothing else, it makes Posse look downright Oscar-worthy in the realm of black westerns! But NOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Amber now has to try her hand at singing. It’s bad enough that the subject matter is so blatantly self-referential, but you have to have Wiz Khalifa on the track with you?!?!? Dammit, Amber!!! You have officially lost the mission!!!!

Happy New Years! Welcome back to another Friday with yours truly. Here on Fresh Fridays I am going to do a few things a little different in 2012. I am still going to feature new music from the industry’s best and up and coming artists but I am also going to sprinkle a little sweetness onto Fresh Fridays. How you might ask, I am randomly going to feature classic tunes/best of ______ from some of my favorite artists through out time and genres. I am also going to feature “Retro Fridays,” some of my favorite songs from particular eras in music like 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. So, sit back; enjoy 2012 with Pop Culture Shock and Fresh Fridays.

2AM Club – Tell Her Hi: I have featured a few songs from this group before but this song here is very unique from the others. For one reason, there are MC lyrics on this track. I say MC over rapping because the content of lyrics this artist uses and the way he flows with the beat. I like the switch up on this single, pretty dope.

Beatrice Eli – The Conqueror: This song has a dope beat to it; the beat honestly caught my ear. The beat is just unique from this type of music genre (Indie Pop.) The lyrical content and vocals are intense and heart felt, just giving you all a heads up. I like it.

Capital Cities –Holiday: I have always been fond of the original version of this song but this cover is pretty cool. There is an Indie Rock, Electronica feel to this song. I like it, you all should like it also; enjoy!

Dreams – Inlove.: My 2^nd Jam of the Week! This song sounds like it should be background music in a movie. The feel of this song is kind of Old School Hip-Hop with a touch of Dubstep with its beats and breaks accompanied by repeated vocals. Dope-ness!

FortFairfieldWith Cosima Lamberth – Patience: This song is so freaking laid back, the female vocals just relaxes my mind to the point I am daydreaming. This is a great song to kick back to on a rainy day.

Harriet – I Slept With All Your Mothers: The title alone is awesome! The sound and feel to this song is classic like a real Rock. The lead singer’s voice is gritty and manly like a Rock song should be, cool beans.

Kanye West Featuring Sly Polaroid and Timmy G – Payback: Classic, unreleased Kanye; enjoy!

Sherell Rowe – I Told Ya: This artist was brought to my attention by my fellow PCS’er, LeRon. Introducing Sherel Rowe, I like this song because it’s very created with all the feature sounds in this song and it’s also a great club song. If you guys like this song, you can check out more form this artist at, http://soundcloud.com/sherellroweshow

Sunday Girl – Where Is My Mind (The Pixies Cover): If you love the original version of this song you will love this version. It doesn’t quite sound the same as the original but the feel of the original song is there in each lyric she utters. Classic!

The Weeknd – Outside: My Jam of the Week! This song is so, so freaking sexy! You all know I love The Weeknd! This song is so sensual and confident; every time I hear this song someone just might be getting “it” that night. Great song!

The 14^th Minute – Intern (Original Mix) 2: I do love me some instrumental tracks for some reason. This beat is very upbeat and makes me happy for some reason. It’s not one of my favorite instrumental tracks because in my opinion it’s missing something to its sound but it’s damn surely a great beat.

The Belligerents – Steal Money: This is a great, catchy Indie Rock song. This song reminds of The Hives because of the sound of the lead singer’s voice and their classic usages of Rock instruments, (Drums and Gauitars.)

The Lulls In Traffic – Silver Bells Are Ringing Only Grey: This song is so somber and relaxed in the beginning and then the beat builds up and to my surprise there are MC lyrics in this song. This song is a very interesting combination of genres.

The Mothership Orchestra – London Breeze (Navigatorz Mix): This is a cool song to me because of the settle beginnings. The vocals kick in and I am rocking my body back and forth. I love the whistling part to this song. Hey, I am easy to please!

Unouomedude – Frequency (The Soundmen Remix): This is an awesome mix here, the beat is great, the vocals are good, and overall, this song is just the sh!t to my ears. I feel like I need to be on a beach listening to this song.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays Vol. 20

The video follows a group of young hipsters enjoying a night of illegal fireworks displays, before taking to the streets for a good old fashion stick-up that ultimately doesn’t go the way they planned.

Here it is, my last Fresh Fridays of 2011. The following songs are my opinion of this year’s best tunes. I will share a sentence or two why the following songs are my top twenty-five of 2011. Nor two songs are alike…Annnd we begin!

• Ø     25. Terius Nash – Wedding Crashers: This song makes the list over so many good songs because this song really catches my ear; the beat, lyrics, and flow of the song is on point.

• Ø     24. Logic Featuring Lykke Li – Let Me Go: Young Sinatra was an impressive mixtape. Logic really brought my ear back to the lyricism in Hip-Hop. This is my favorite track on the mixtape.

• Ø      23. Lykke Li – I follow Rivers: This song is just crazy dope. This has been one of my favorite songs since the year begun.

• Ø     22. Patrick Wolf – The City: I love this song because it’s so catchy and it’s an easy sing along. Another song that has long playtime on my iPod.

• Ø     21. SBTRKT Featuring Little Dragon – Wildfire: From the first second I heard this song I knew I loved it. The lead singer of Little Dragon’s voice is f*cking beautiful on this song!

• Ø     20. Inc. – Swear: This song here! Man, this is my sh*t, hands down! I always want to just breakout and dance my a$$ off!

• Ø      19. Macklemore X Ryan Lewis – Make the Money: Wait, wait, wait, let the beat build annnnnd there! Just listen for a minute…See, dope-ness huh? That’s why I picked this song.

• Ø     18. Cults – Walk At Night: Cults’ album is amazing! This is one of my favorite tracks off their album. My favorite moment in this song is at 2:15.

• Ø     17. The Heavy – When I Die: I want this song to play at my funeral when I am old and gray. This song is a balling way to be put into the ground.

• Ø     16. Frank Ocean – Lovecrime: I originally picked Swim Good but I realized that I like this song much better than Swim Good.

• Ø     15. AWOLNATION – Sail: This song makes my head rock because the beat is crazy dope and the lyrics are just as dope.

• Ø     14. Tiger Waves – Friends: Every time “Oh whoa o oooooh” is sung in this song, I throw my hands in the air. Give it a try, it’s fun!

• Ø     13. The Generationals – Ten-Twenty-Ten: This is just Excellent! I love this group!

• Ø     12. Rizzle Kicks – Down With The Trumpets: The beat on this song is so sick, honestly the whole song is body moving material.

• Ø     11. Zeds Dead – Coffee Break: This song is so Hip-Hop without being Hip-Hop. I love it!

• Ø     10. Florence + The Machine – Take Care (Drake Cover): This version of Take Care puts the original to f*cking shame! This song is breath taking when it’s sung by Florence.

• Ø     9. M83 – Midnight City: Before you heard this was heard on a Victoria’s Secret commercial it was heard here first. So there! *B-Boy Stance*

• Ø     8. Metronomy – The Look: Here is another song that also has high playtime on my iPod because this is a damn good song, point blank.

• Ø     7. Kanye West & Jay-Z Featuring Otis Redding (Not really) – Otis: This is the only mainstream song to be featured on this list. This might have been a disappointing album to me but this song is my sh*t!

• Ø     6. The Black Keys – Sister: This song has me singing loud and proud each and every time. Works like gangbusters!

• Ø     5. STS Featuring Yelawolf – Hello Sunshine: Might not be Jay-Z and Eminem but this song is amazingly beautiful! I go crazy three minutes into the song because every element of the song comes together as one.

• Ø     4. Bombs and Bottlers – When The Lights Go Out: A song about f*cking, story of my life. I love it!

• Ø     3. The Weeknd Featuring Drake – The Zone: The Weeknd is one of the best new artists in 2011 to me! This is one of my favorite Weeknd tracks, hands down.

• Ø     2. Childish Gambino – Heartbeat: Another artist that was amazing this year; Camp is an instant classic in my mind. I get kind of emotional whenever I hear this song.

• Ø     1. VACATIONER – Trip: Here is my song of the year! This song gives me that throwback, B-boy feel to it. The beat is freaking dope and I actually adore this song second by second.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays: Best of 2011

Now that’s out the way; allow me to introduce the amazing Jade Lawhon.

Why am I featuring this artist? I am happy you asked that! Lately I have been listening to Jade’s EP/tracks that’s attached below. I honestly love her musical sound and style of performing. Jade’s music is a bit exotic with flares of Electronic, Psychedelic, and Jazz accompanied by sensual, abstract lyrics. Her style reminds me of Amy Winehouse because of her uniquely beautiful, raspy voice on quite of few tracks on this EP that favors Winehouse’s vocal style. Jade’s voice isn’t the traditional, sweet, overly feminine lead vocalist voice. At first listen you would think as the listener that she just might not be a good singer but once the song kicks in her voice is so hypnotizing with elements of soul behind each lyric. Another reason she reminds me of Amy Winehouse because of her adult lyrical content in some of her songs. She’s not afraid to reveal “the hateful love” in relationships, lust, passion, or exposing herself as a vulnerable woman. The last reason I am in love with this woman because her music style varies from Dance (Sound from the Tomb) to Experimental (Shut Up.) The various styles to her music give each and every song an interesting aspect from the previous song. Jade’s various styles also peeks my interest as a listener because I feel as if she could perform almost any type of music genre and sound excellent as an artist. She’s still fresh but I have great confidence in her musical abilities that she will blossom into a marvelous artist. I am looking forward to hearing more from Jade Lawhon throughout her career. Please, give this up and coming artist a listen; trust me, her voice will have you lost in a sea of musical melodies and sensuality.

I usually give you guys my favorite songs from the featured albums or EPs on Fresh Fridays but every song on this EP is awesome and different from the last. My least favorite song is Drown with Me but it’s still a solid song. I will leave you all with this, I follows Jade Lawhon on Twitter and she’s freaking hilarious on Twitter. The things she tweets about are priceless! Most definitely check her out on Twitter and most importantly check out Sound from the Tomb – EP presented by yours truly and the great folks at Pop Culture Shock.

Happy Holidays!

Enjoy!

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Jade Lawhon – Sounds From The Tomb EP

South African artist Spoek Mathambo goes all out for his video for “Control”, a cover of Joy Division’s “She’s Lost Control”. The images combined with the music make for quite to powerful effect.

Baby Monster – The General of Hot Desire: This song reminds me of Talking Head because the lead singer’s voice. This song actually sounds as if it could be a Talking Heads’ song. Talking Heads was one big reason I picked this song this week.

The Black Keys – Sister: This is my jam of the week! This song hits me like gangbusters! (I don’t know what that means, just roll with it.) This is one soulful Rock song; this is what music is in need for. Please, pick up El Camino by The Black Keys; excellence album.

Boots Electric – I love You All the Thyme: I love the upbeat sound to this song. I love the way the lead vocalist flows with the beat. This song reminds me of 80’s New Wave music, if you didn’t know I adore New Wave.

Chaz Kangas Featuring J57 – June to Labor Day: Here is an artist that had contacted my boss man, Ken K. He nicely asked for me to check out his music, you ask and I shall deliver. This beat is very dope! The moment this song came on I was hooked to the beat and the witty content about his summer love. If you would like to hear more of Chaz Kangas’ music check him out at http://chazkangas.bandcamp.com/

Common Featuring John Legend – The Believer: I just might love No I.D. become he can make the simplest beat sound amazing. Do not give me wrong, Common always bring it correct but the hook, beat, and John Legend’s vocals in the background on the beat moves my head.

Easy Does It – Feelin’ Like Ooh 1: I picked this group because their sound sounds like Sublime with that acoustic guitar in the background and the rapping/singing lyrics. I am in need of some kick back, summertime music because that’s what this song is.

Fun. – One Foot: Third jam of the week! This song is so freaking dope! The beat is insane, the lyrics are so catchy but easy listening, and this song is just body moving. I go insane every time I hear this song. I want to put my hands in the air like this ===>

Future Island – Balance: This song is so cool because of that kick drum/snare, riiiiiiight there! This song is an easy listen with its calm vocals and body moving beat. What move can you ask for on a busy Friday like you having?

Gotye – Showdown below My Sombrero – Wait! This is a cool a$$ name for a cool a$$ song! This instrumental is very laid back and head rocking. I usually feature fast pace instrumentals but this week I have been feeling pretty chilled, so enjoy my cool.

Luke Christopher – Letter to Myself: So, I have been doing this thing we call “Fresh Fridays” for six months now I guess I can take my “blogger hat” off. I am going to be frank and say, I do not like this song. I can not recall why I picked this song. Listening to this song for a second time it’s just not a song that catches my ears. Oh well, it made the list.

Rihanna – Birthday Cake: All I am going to say is this is for Shontee and LeRon. Enjoy!

Skizzy Mars – Shangri-La: This is second jam of the week. This song is so smooth, like Miami Vice sport jackets. This is a new artist to my ears but he’s pretty nice so far. He reminds me of Wiz Khalifa with his smooth flow and sex, drug, and women lyrical content. This is really my ish!

St. Motel – At Least I Have Nothing: Do I like this song? I am not sure just yet but you guys give it a listen. Enjoy!

Swizz Lips – U Got the Power: This is a catchy Indie Rock song. The lead vocals are easy on the ears, the lyrical content is solid, and the overall sound is pretty good. Not bad at all.

The Roots Featuring Dice Raw– Lighthouse: Representing Philly once more! All the songs on Undun are dope-ness! I didn’t know which song to pick so I closed my eyes and just picked. I love this song because I love The Roots story telling aspect to their songs. This is a dope song; if you don’t believe me ask “boss man” Ken and LeRon.

Y Luv – Keep It Rollin’: Wait for it, slow start up. Just wait for it and there you go. You hear that kick drum. There, now the song has started. Just listen, cool song right? I know. We just listened to a song together.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays, Vol. 19

This week is a little different from previous weeks; I decided to do only an Indie or Alternative music play list. I am a big fan of Indie, Alternative and any other type of music in between. From me to your ears, enjoy!

2AM Club – Hipster Girl: This song reminds me of early to mid 80’s urban Rock/R&B sound like Prince. This song is very catchy and synthesizer heavy; kind of like modern day Synthpop. Give this song a listen, I promise you will like it.

Amanda Mair – Doubt: Here is another good song this week. I am a sucker for drums and female lead vocalists, I must admit. This song reminds me of 80’s teen Pop, I love the sound and feel of this song.

The Black Keys – Dead and Gone: My second jam of the week. This is a great, great song! Their new album, El Camino is pretty awesome also. This song is the true essences of Rock n’ Roll, a bit of soul in the vocals with heavy drums and guitars in the background. Love it!

Cillie Barnes – Indian Hill: I love the gritty vocals in this song. We barely ever hear vocals from a woman sounding gritty, reminds me of Black Keys or Bon Iver but a woman. A little Folklore with sprinkles of Rock, I like!

Cultfever – Boys, Girls: I have featured a song from this group in previous Fresh Fridays. This is a good follow up from their first single. This song is a little upbeat with heavy drums. The female’s lead vocals really give this group a cool sound and also her voice makes my ears happy. I would love to hear more from this group.

Florence & The Machine – Spectrum: I am slowly becoming a fan of Florence & The Machine. On this song the lead singer’s voice really reaches out and touches me, this woman can sing! This song is kind of Alternative but there is also a dance feel to it. Good song, enjoy!

Grouplove – Colours (Xaphoon Jones Mega Edit): This is a freaking awesome song! You can rock out and dance to this song at the same time. I’ve always enjoyed when Xaphoon Jones’ remixes. When he takes an Indie Rock song and blends it with his own unique style; it always comes out sounding fantastic.

Hey Champ – Sugar & Spice: This is a cool remix here of music from Luther Vandross. I am a bit surprise it’s this group; they’re more Indie Eletronica but this works for me. I love this remix, it is very dope!

Jade Lawhon – Kittenz: Jam of the week! I love this woman! She’s so adorable for one and two, her songs are so unique from other female vocalists and performers. This song here really confirms that I am a fan. This song is very different from the last song I featured by her last week. This is a great song!

M83 – Wait: I have been listening to this group’s album lately, excellent album. Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming is one of the best albums this year. I picked this song to feature because it’s different from Midnight City, you might have heard Midnight City in a few Victoria’s Secret commercials. Wait is a great, laid back Rock song; nothing fancy in the production to this song. It’s just a great Rock song.

Mansions on the Moon – Fall Leaves: This song is very laid back and chilled; I rarely hear laid back Indie Rock songs nowadays. This song is almost a bit Neo-psychedelia. I love the lead singer’s voice; it’s low and easy going on the ears.

Marmalakes – Geneva Hall 1: This is an interesting song to me. There is a little bit of everything going on in this song. I don’t know if I like or dislike it but I do know I enjoy their modern Rock sound. I would like to hear more from this group so I can understand their direction they’re looking to go.

ReEnactment – Higher Duties: This song took me a few listens to actually like it. Do not get me wrong, this is a good song and catchy. I really don’t know what my problem was at that first moment of listening to it.

Smith Brothers – Don’t Stop ‘Till You get Get Enough (Michael Jackson): I am going to start featuring more independent and local artists each week. Here are two brothers who are very talented; it’s just two guys that are the whole band and also singing. That’s pretty dope! I love this cover because they didn’t try to make this song similar to the original version instead they made this cover unique with their own sound and attitude. If you want to check out the Smith Brothers, go to www.southwork.net for more music from this talented duo.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

 
Download Fresh Fridays, Vol. 18

Star Slinger – Moet & Reese: The moment this song begins I really didn’t care for it because of the overpowering rolling drum. Then something happens, the song starts to grow on me. The background vocals might have something to do with it.

Jellyfish Brigade – Sunflowers: This song totally fooled me; I thought this was going to be a Dubstep or Indie Rock song from the sound of the chorus. I enjoyed the artist’s lyrics on this beat. It has that Dubstep feel with a pitch of Hip-Hop. Dope-ness

Pyyramids – That Ain’t Right: This song has a few elements going on in it. What catches my attraction to this song is the way it comes on, very trippy begins. Next thing that stands out is the female lead vocalist; her voice is very soft but pleasing to the ears. This is a nice song.

Mike Posner – Looks Like Sex: I have heard about this guy for a few weeks now and I can understand why. This song just might be my jam of the week! It’s very sexy, cool, smooth, and catchy. The beat is what makes the song smooth and sensual. Sexy a$$ song!

Jade Lawhon – Sounds From the Tomb: I love the sound of this song, it’s a bit of Hip-Hop in a formal R&B delivery. I love the way she delivers with her flow in this song instead of the beat making the song her voice does a great job for me.

Tyga – Rack City: Every sh*tty artist is allowed their one song for me to like. I believe I like this song for the beat alone. That’s it; I am not going into why I like this song just know it made the list. There you have it!

Frank Ocean – Girlfriend’s Best Friend: This isn’t a bad song by Frank, still no Lovecrime or Swim Good but its solid. The beat is very groovy, nothing amazing but with Frank’s vocals and the combination of the beat this song is cool.

The sound on this song is similar to early 2000’s R&B.

Florence + The Machine – Take Care [Drake Cover]: This cover is beautiful! Oh, my God! This version is almost better than the original version; you know what, it is better than the original version. Man, her voice on this song is so beautiful. Great song of the week!

AudioDax – It Goes Cold: Here is another Hip-Hop song I thought was going to be an Indie Rock song; I guess this is an Indie Hip-Hop? Here is a good song; the content is straight to the point and real. The beat is nice and the chorus is simple really making this song likeable to me.

The Roots Featuring Phonte and Dice Raw – One Time: Representing Philly once more! This song is just dope! This is what Hip-Hop is in need of, more Roots!

Swizz Beatz – Off The Cuff: I am not a big fan of Swizz Beatz as a rapper but as a producer he’s amazing. This song for some reason caught my ears, it’s kind of catchy. Enjoy!

Black Star – You Already Knew: I am so excited to hear new Black Star! This song is so smooth and the sample is crazy classic. I think the sample might be Aretha Franklin but do not hold me to that. Enough talk, listen and thank me later.

Cookies – Wilderness Tips: I think I might be in love! This song is so lovely and sexy with its sexy a$$. The beat is insane for one, the female lead vocals are so freaking cool, and this song was not what I’ve expected it to be. Nice!

Lupe Fiasco – The End of the World: Here are two reasons why you should like this song; it’s Lupe Fiasco and the beat is M83 – Midnight City. Yup! Cool right?

Old Wives’ Tales – Momma Devil: Here is another song I didn’t expect to like until the change in the song. This is a great Rock song; no funky studio machinery, just a solid Rock song with a band, mic, and lead singer.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays, Vol. 17

B.o.B. Featuring Bun B and Big K.R.I.T. – 5 On The Kush: I’d almost passed up on this song but after giving it a listen I like it. It reminds me of a classic OutKast song. There is a soulful beat with an oldie song sample and “southern” drum roll in this song. This song will leave your car thumping from the bass.

Chiddy Bang – Ray Charles: I love the cleverness to this song because the song drops hints of women admiring through out of the song and Ray Charles was a womanizer. Funny! This song is very dope, the beat is on point and I love the “Ray Charles” chorus sample. I also had to represent for Philadelphia!

Childish Gambino – See Me Now: My jam of the week! This song is crazy dope! The beat is insanity, I can’t explain exactly what I mean by that but it’s easier if you listen to this song. This song is one of my favorite tracks off of CAMP. The trumpets are the perfection to the madness that accompanies this song.

Clubfeet – Last Words: Here is an upbeat song for your Black Friday shopping. There are a few great elements to this song, the lead and background vocals are great and the New Wave synthesizers really make this song hip moving.

Collin McLoughlin Featuring Jake Easy Does It Remix) – Progress: I like this song for its Dub Step beat accompanied by Poppy vocals. This song could do without the Rap feature, I feel as the feature really takes away from the flow of the song. The flow of the song is catchy and head moving but the Rap feature is just a random bomb raining on this song.

Derrick Hodge Featuring Common – We Live Today: Another Philadelphia artist, I had to represent for my town. This song is so smooth, like classic Jay Dilla laced with vocals from Common. This is a laid back, classic song with its simple, soulful beat.

Feed Me – What You Know (Two Door Cinema Club Cover): Here is another upbeat song for your Black Friday shopping. I guess this is a Dub Step song but what I do know is every time I hear this song I want to pop lock.

Frank Ocean – Back: This is a good song from Frank Ocean but my honest opinion is there hasn’t been another great song to follow Swim Good. I feel as several songs after Ultra Nostalgic all sound generic love songs, his basic sound. I don’t know, his songs need that extra “uff” to make me a one hundred twenty percent fan.

Gary Clark Jr. – Bright Lights: The sound to this song has a gritty Rock sound to it. I love it. This artist’s sound on this song reminds me of B.B. King with the guitar leading the flow of the song. This is a great Rock song.

I Am In Love – Call Me An Animal: This song reminds me of a combination of 80’s New Wave music and early 2000’s Indie Rock because of the low and some what emo lyrics; something you would hear in a teen 80’s movie. The production sounds very classic; a simple guitar, drums, and light synthesizer.

Kendrick Lamar – Buried Alive: This is the best song off of Drake’s Take Care. The concept of this song is very dope, an up and coming rapper wanting the position of Drake. This song is basically about how fame can corrupt a good artist.

The Knocks Featuring Gary Go – Magic: This is a catchy Pop song. It’s very body moving and fun. I can’t exactly place my finger on the sound of this song but there is an unique sound to it.

Mansion On The Moon – Desert Island: Here is a new group Pharell Williams is executive producing. If you listen closely, you can hear Pharell’s influence in this song. This is a good, dreamy song; something to kick back to after a long day of shopping.

Moby – The Poison Tree: This is a good song, I am not sure if the song’s vocals are sample or original; I need to look into that. This song sounds a little different than Moby’s average songs. I get a soulful, Techno, Rock feel from this song. My favorite parts of this song are when the tambourine comes in to play and when the vocals and the beat get louder in the song.

Orbital – Never: This is a dope beat for a Techno song. This song is very settled but there are a few layers to this beat. The light vocal in the background and the effects really makes the song likeable for me.

T.I. – Pyro: New T.I. *In my DJ voice* Well, I am not a big fan of T.I. and this song doesn’t make me a new fan but the production is very dope. I enjoy the chords in the background of the beat with a “southern” drum roll in mid play. This song is worth listening to for the beat alone.

“It’s Fresh Fridays; hope you have a nice weekend!”

Download Fresh Fridays, Vol. 16

I am not a big fan of Drake, but Take Care is a solid album, I rate it a B- and here is why…

I really enjoyed the “loneliness of a *king on top” theme to this album; however the composition of the track list is inconsistent. Take Care is a rollercoaster of “emo” lyrics and catchy production with a few out of place tracks that break the flow of the album. For example the first two songs Over My Dead Body and Take a Shot for Me are very somber; the production is calm with heavy drum bass. Following those songs are Crew Love and Headlines, two songs that are so far apart from Over My Dead Body and Take a Shot for Me on the emotional spectrum. I will say I enjoyed the introduction of this album. However, I do not like the lyrical content of Headlines, Crew Love, and few other songs. They’re crude and typical; give us a little more subject matter, instead of then same old money, hoes, clothes, and cars.

I don’t mind Drake being an “Emo King” by singing/rapping about his emotions and women. On the other hand I could do without songs like Lord Knows and Underground Kings where Drake is portrayed as a tough guy. Take Care could have done without these tracks for two reasons, the “tough guy” persona does not match Drake’s personality through his music, and the songs disturb the flow/theme of Take Care. They’re not bad songs overall, but they could have been omitted from the album. Songs like Crew Love, Headlines, Underground Kings, We’ll Be Fine, Make Me Proud, Lord Knows, and Cameras disturb the flow of this album. Those songs are little too hard-hitting and raw to be on the same album as Marvin’s Room.

On the bright side! The production on this album is beautiful! Noah “40” Shebib is on point. Each of my favorite songs on Take Care are the ones he produced. In my humble opinion, he is the key to Drake’s success. His production really compliments Drake’s style. Drake isn’t a great lyricist but he’s a great song writer and that shows on “40’s” production. There are quite a few tunes that I enjoy on this album like Marvin’s Room, Take Care and Look What You’ve Done, just to name a few. I enjoy the personal, somber lyrical content in these songs; giving me a new view on Drake. Before listening to this album I never understood Drake as an artist but in Take Care he conveys his emotions and personal hardships very well. Which brings me back to his song writing skills. The composition of his actual songs is perfect. Doing It Wrong, for example, has beautifully dark lyrical content, the atmosphere of the song is heartfelt, and the harmonica is like the icing on a delicious cake. Songs like Over My Dead Body, Shot for Me, Take Care, Marvin’s Room, Buried Alive, Good Ones Go, Doing It Wrong, The Real Her, Look What You’ve Done, and HYFR are the perfect songs to set the theme of a lonely king. Those songs give the listeners a glimpse of Drake’s deep emotions. To highlight one song, Buried Alive, featuring Kendrick Lamar, was an excellent track to include on this album. Buried Alive is one of the best songs based on its content alone. The song speaks of an up and coming rapper wanting the same things that the “king,” Drake has: fame, women, and material things. Lamar’s flow is a bit similar to Drake’s, but Lamar is an actual lyricist who is able to ride the melody of a song. In my opinion, Buried Alive was the perfect song to convey the theme of a “king” and another rapper who is thirsty to be the next king of Hip-hop.

Take Care is a solid album, not great, but good enough album to give a listen. From beginning to end Take Care is a somber album with calm beats, heavy drums and a few hiccups in the flow. This album has made me rethink my current relationship like three times, consider yourself warned.

Incidentally, here’s an arranged list of the tracks I would have used for Take Care:

Over My Dead Body

Shot for Me

Dreams Money Can Buy

Take Care

Marvin’s Room

Buried Alive (Interlude)

Club Paradise

Trust Issues

Doing It Wrong

Good Ones Go (Interlude)

The Real Her

HYFR (Hell Ya F*ckin’ Right)

Free Spirit

Practice

The Ride

This arrangement of songs would flow much better with the “king” album theme. Plus, seventeen tracks of Drake being bi-polar aren’t too fun to listen to continuously.

Hey, you don’t have to take my words for it; give Drake’s Take Care a listen for yourself. You can be your own critic.

Enjoy!

Take Care now… (No pun attended.)

*Sidebar: I am not calling Drake a king, nor do I believe in the hype of Drake being the “king” of hip-hop.

I only have a casual knowledge of Glitch Mob, but I’m more than willing to give Kraddy a shot after checking out the video for his latest single, “Black Box”. All this electronic, dubstep, dancehall music used to hold me down back in my younger days, so I try to get back into it from time to time. And you can’t go wrong with a house party video that explodes into an all out catfight when the grunge-lookin’ blond shows up, clearly uninvited.