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Andrew MartinAbout Andrew MartinWeekly newspaper reporter by day, music reviewer by night (OK, and by day, too). When he’s not writing for PopMatters, Andrew spends most of his time at online magazine Prefix and hip-hop sites Potholes In My Blog and OkayPlayer. Features
Tell ‘em That It’s Human NatureAll of the allegations and weirdness aside, Michael Jackson made an impact on music and culture that few ever have. It's for that reason that I cannot help but be at least mildly moved by his passing. [6 July 2009] Reviews
Bisco Smith: The BroadcastArmed with urgent rhymes and apocalyptic production, Bisco Smith's The Broadcast is a moody listening experience that's equal parts greatness and frustration. [4 February 2010] 
Sareem Poems: Black & Read All Over Deluxe EditionSome repetitive messages and a few simplistic beats aren't enough to weigh down Sareem Poems' mostly impressive Black & Read All Over. [27 January 2010] 
Souls of Mischief: Montezuma’s RevengeA slightly bloated, almost-great affair from Cali-underground legends Souls of Mischief, who wisely team up with Prince Paul. [25 January 2010] 
DJ Spinna: The Boogie Back: Post Disco Club JamsCrate diggers and older heads will want to pick up this compilation that will likely fall on the deaf ears of the younger generation. [19 January 2010] 
Edan: Echo PartyHip-hop's trailblazers get blended on Edan's latest project that unfortunately offers nothing new from the producer-rapper. [15 January 2010] 
The Grouch: Three Eyes Off the TimeThe Grouch, an otherwise talented MC and sometimes-producer, churns out one of his career's most boring and uninspired albums. [14 January 2010] 
Doomtree: False Hopes XVThis hip-hop collective continues to churn out quality music, this one being an EP featuring each of its nine members. [11 January 2010] 
Shawn Lee & Clutchy Hopkins: Fascinating FingersTheir skills are undeniable, but Lee & Hopkins have played this sometimes fascinating, sometimes dull music before. [18 December 2009] 
Fly Gypsy: Change for a DollarThis transcontinental duo makes upbeat, positive hip-hop that should be embraced by even the most skeptical listeners. [17 December 2009] 
Mr. Chop: For Pete’s SakeThis record is very much what Pete Rock was and still is about: bringing us the sounds of the past in new and amazing ways. [15 December 2009] 
Clipse: Til the Casket DropsInconsistency across the board makes Clipse's third album one of 2009's biggest disappointments. [8 December 2009] 
Shafiq Husayn: Shafiq En A-Free-KaIt will take you a few listens, but keep on spinning this disc and you'll soon succumb to its magic. This is another progressive step in the right direction for the dwindling R&B genre. 
Felt: Felt 3: A Tribute to Rosie PerezMurs and Slug team up with Aesop Rock for their third Felt offering, a bass-heavy winter album made for a party at the apocalypse. [23 November 2009] 
Rakim: The Seventh SealA disappointing and ultimately average display from one of hip-hop's greatest artists. And, even worse, it's Rakim who is mostly to blame. [19 November 2009] 
People Under the Stairs: Carried AwayFun-loving hip-hop is rarely as good as People Under the Stairs' seventh album, Carried Away. [18 November 2009] 
Nicolay: City Lights Vol. 2: ShibuyaNicolay takes it to another level on this, his latest City Lights volume. A misstep here or there, sure, but it's a damn good offering from one of music's best producers. [16 November 2009] 
Jern Eye: VisionJern Eye fails to deliver with Vision, a lacking combination of dull rhyming and good-to-great production. 
DOOM: Unexpected GuestsDOOM deserves credit for turning this compilation into more of an album than just a collection. [13 November 2009] 
Fly Gypsy: The Vodka & Rum MixtapeA fresh and different take on the mixtape that is sure to isolate some listeners and dazzle others. Ultimately, though, this project is worth at least a spin or two. 
Apathy: Wanna Snuggle?Had Apathy used the editor's scissors on here, Wanna Snuggle? could have been one of 2009's best albums. [4 November 2009] 
BK-One: Radio Do CanibalThis is the album that producers/DJs should look to when crafting their next project. Rarely does a record of this kind sound so natural or cohesive. [29 October 2009] 
Skyzoo: The SalvationFantastic production and strong lyricism are slightly hindered by a sometimes snooze-worthy flow on Skyzoo's official debut, The Salvation. [19 October 2009] 
J Dilla: Dillanthology 3Some of this hip-hop deity's finest productions thrown together on a single disc. And as great as they are, this compilation is more a gateway than a final destination. [14 October 2009] 
Rob Murat: So Much To SaySoulful, multi-talented Rob Murat has some more work to do before winning over a more diverse crowd, but that doesn't mean you should pass on playing his debut, So Much To Say. [13 October 2009] 
Brother Ali: UsSay hello to one of hip-hop's best albums of the past 10 years. Brother Ali and Ant have done it again. [9 October 2009] 
D.Black: Ali’YahA solid, albeit flawed, sophomore effort that will certainly cause you to ascend as D.Black intends. Unfortunately, that feeling is all too fleeting. [7 October 2009] 
Drake: So Far GoneIt's impossible to dismiss a solid collection of songs, even if it's an obvious attempt to fatten the wallets of everyone involved. [28 September 2009] 
Skiggy Rapz: Bang to the Boogie EPFunky, jazzy, and fun-loving hip-hop with a soul from Skiggy Rapz, a Dutch rapper and producer who can rhyme and craft beats with the best of 'em. [23 September 2009] 
Jay-Z: The Blueprint 3A frustrating attempt at experimentation with flashes of brilliance, mediocrity, and wackness, The Blueprint 3 falls short of breaking Jay-Z's curse of following up a great album with something lackluster. [8 September 2009] 
Speech Debelle: Speech TherapyIt might not be for everyone but don't get it twisted, Speech Therapy is an album you want and need to hear. [28 August 2009] 
The Rebel Yell: Love & WarOne of hip-hop's finest producers, James Poyser, throws together a side-project that is sonically there but lyrically dull as it relies on cliches and recycled material. [26 August 2009] 
Pseudo Slang: We’ll Keep LookingWe'll Keep Looking features some of the finest jazz-hop production of the past few years. It's just a shame the rapping on here doesn't stack up. [13 August 2009] 
DJ JS-1: Ground Control 2: No Sell OutDJ JS-1's showcase album runs about 20 minutes too long and features too many mediocre emcees to warrant it more than a couple spins. [11 August 2009] 
Slaughterhouse: SlaughterhouseThese four emcees put their respective egos aside to create a very solid, very listenable record full of clever punchlines, intriguing storytelling, and shoulder-brushing braggadocio. [10 August 2009] 
Royce Da 5’9”: The Revival EPAs if we all weren't eagerly awaiting the Slaugherhouse debut, Detroit member Royce Da 5'9" has increased our craving with The Revival EP. [6 August 2009] 
Roc ‘C’ + IMAKEMADBEATS: The TranscontinentalThis album is a classic example of an average rapper spoiling a series of good-to-great beats. [5 August 2009] 
Yppah: They Know What Ghost KnowLush synthesizers and guitars paired with vibrant drums make up Yppah's latest record, also known as one of 2009's finest. [4 August 2009] 
Lushlife: Cassette CityBeats for days, above-average rapping, and a very strong first two-thirds make Cassette City more than worth your time. [31 July 2009] 
Sa-Ra Creative Partners: Nuclear Evolution: The Age of LoveOutstanding, space-age production saves Sa-Ra's latest record from being dubbed another overly-sexual R&B mess. [21 July 2009] 
Chali 2na: Fish Outta WaterA slightly disappointing, albeit solid, album from the most recognizable member of the defunct Jurassic 5. [17 July 2009] 
Alexipharmic: American BeautyLackluster execution holds back American Beauty, an album full of poignant lyricism, solid beats, and disappointingly-average rapping. [15 July 2009] 
Fabio Musta: PassportThis Italian producer further proves that you don't need to be from the U.S. to make dope hip-hop, even if his album could use some work. [9 July 2009] 
Blaq Poet: Tha BlaqprintOtherwise solid gutter hip-hop that fails to meet expectations thanks mostly to repetitive production from DJ Premier. [7 July 2009] 
J Dilla: Jay Stay PaidThis might be a "good" record by comparison, but it just doesn't stack up to Dilla's impressive legacy. [6 July 2009] 
Tiye Phoenix: Half Woman/Half Amazin’Listeners beware: Tiye Phoenix's album might break both your neck and your repeat button. [23 June 2009] 
Joyo Velarde: Joyo Velarde EPQuannum songstress Joyo Velarde shows potential with strong pipes and funky grooves, but that's not enough to carry an otherwise weak EP. [21 June 2009] 
Street Sweeper Social Club: Street Sweeper Social ClubTom Morello and emcee Boots Riley team up for some rather forgettable music. [19 June 2009] 
Sandpeople: Long Story, Short…This 10-member collective has its beats and lyrics up to snuff on this solid EP. Now if only you could tell just who was spitting which verse. [16 June 2009] 
The Submarines: Honeysuckle RemixesRemix projects so frequently fall on their face that a disappointing EP like this has become commonplace. It's too bad, because the source material deserves better. [11 June 2009] 
Mos Def: The EcstaticWith his last two albums receiving less than enthused reactions from fans and critics alike, is The Ecstatic really worth getting excited about? Short answer: Yes. [9 June 2009] 
Xu Xu Fang: Seven Days NowSeven Days Now is a majestic blend of shoegaze, psychedelic rock, and trip-hop that shows Xu Xu Fang is capable of growing and diversifying its sound. [3 June 2009] 
Rootbeer: The Pink Limousine EPPigeon John and Flynn Adam pair up for one of the worst records of 2009. [28 May 2009] 
Tanya Morgan: BrooklynatiThis trio has outdone itself in crafting an early contender for best hip-hop album of 2009. [15 May 2009] 
The Grouch & Eligh: SAY G&E!These two Living Legends members join forces again and make one of the year's finest underground albums to date. [12 May 2009] 
Various Artists: The Soul of Hip-HopClassic Stax hits aside, collections like this can spoil a specific experience that most hip-hop heads treasure. [10 May 2009] 
De La Soul: Are You In? Nike+ Original RunThe beats are there for the Long Island trio, but this continuous mix aimed at runners falls short on the lyrical tip. [6 May 2009] Dinosaur Jr.: 2 April 2009 - Providence, RIIt’s quite rare that I leave a show wanting to immediately listen to the act I just saw onstage. [4 May 2009] 
Mr. Lif: I Heard It TodayThis political emcee's latest is his most focused work yet, even without a prominent single or emotional drive. 
Crippled Black Phoenix: 200 Tons of Bad LuckIt might be too long for some, but 200 Tons is a gorgeous effort that some are sure to love. [29 April 2009] 
Aceyalone: Aceyalone & The Lonely OnesDoo-wop-injected hip-hop from one of the most creative emcees delivers despite its flaws. [21 April 2009] 
Finale: A Pipedream and a PromiseFinale is not messing around on his debut, a fiery blend of introspection and braggadocio that never slows down. [20 April 2009] 
Kero One: Early BelieversHis preaching might get in the way, but Kero One makes up for it with sunny beats and feel-good lyricism. [16 April 2009] 
Odd Nosdam: T.I.M.E. SoundtrackFolk, dub, boom-bap, and noise fill this soundtrack to the urban landscape. It's saved by more highs than lows. [8 April 2009] 
Daedelus & Jogger: Friends of Friends, Vol. 1Though it's average overall, this split EP provides a glimpse into a bright future for newcomer Jogger. [7 April 2009] 
Brother Ali: The Truth Is HereConsistency is a game Brother Ali is not afraid to play. And he demonstrates that across this fantastic nine-song EP. [3 April 2009] 
Architecture In Helsinki: That Beep EPThis Australian's band descent into pop becomes even more apparent in this EP only for the most hardcore Architects. [1 April 2009] 
Various Artists: Dillanthology Vol. 1Although it offers nothing new, this is a fine introductory piece for new or unacquainted J Dilla listeners. [31 March 2009] 
DOOM: Born Like ThisThe masked villain returns from a controversial hiatus with a satisfying and flawed album that bores or delights based on your mood. [25 March 2009] 
Keelay & Zaire: Ridin’ HighKee & Zee's blunted ride is full of hazy beats, banging drums, and lush keys. Oh, and several speed bumps, too. Witch + Earthless + MegasusEven if your ears aren’t ringing, I can guarantee your neck will hurt. [24 March 2009] 
Sole & The Skyrider Band: Sole & The Skyrider Band Remix LPThis is a noisy batch of doom and gloom that re-works Sole's solid 2007 effort while maintaining a sense of coherence and moody beauty. [13 March 2009] 
Dragon Fli Empire: RedefineThis Calgary-based duo might not be redefining hip-hop, but that doesn't mean their third album can't be an enjoyable, positive romp, which it is. [11 March 2009] 
Eliot Lipp: Peace Love Weed 3DElectro-funk producer Lipp churns out a messy collection bogged down by too many missteps and too few highlights. 
Joe Budden: Padded RoomJoe Budden’s long-awaited sophomore album is lyrically fantastic as he easily switches his flow and topics. But unfortunately it’s weighed down by a cast of mediocre producers. [9 March 2009] 
Afrobutt: WundabuttBooty-shakin' disco that falls flat at times due to some lackluster drums and tracks that drag. But there's still enough to keep you intrigued, listening, and, most importantly, dancing. [1 March 2009] 
Zo! & Asylum 7: Overdue ProcessThis album proves that the hip-hop duo is alive, kicking, and still able to produce solid, albeit unbalanced, records. [24 February 2009] 
6th Sense: It’s a 6th Sense Beat Yo!!A comprehensive, instrumental look back at 6th Sense's spectacular 2008, though it falls short in the replay department. [23 February 2009] 
Novel: 808s & MixtapesA mixtape that's quick and to the point? Yes, and it's dope, too. [18 February 2009] 
Colin Munroe: Is The Unsung HeroToo much genre-bouncing leaves this mixtape unbalanced, even if it shows shades of true talent. [17 February 2009] 
Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears: Black Joe Lewis & The HoneybearsPunk-blues explosion that shows hints of something good to come mixed with some fatal missteps. [10 February 2009] 
Count Bass D: L7The hip-hop Count's latest is the very definition of a grower that, by the third listen, will find its way into your rotation. If you get that far, though, is questionable. 
Madlib the Beat Konducta: WLIB AM: King of the WigflipAs often as it seems like Madlib might be a genius, there are records like this that prove true the old adage of "quality versus quantity". [2 February 2009] 
Heartsrevolution: Switchblade EPThis EP offers up a blitz of 8-bit punk that is sure to please some and turn away others. [29 January 2009] 
Moka Only: Carrots and EggsMoka Only, aka Mr. Prolific, never stops recording. And hopefully, if this album is any indication, he never will. [28 January 2009] 
Heltah Skeltah: Da Incredible Rap TeamClever punchlines and witty criticisms only get Ruck and Rock so far on this disappointing third album from Heltah Skeltah. [22 January 2009] 
PPP: AbundanceTo say this will light a fire under R&B is an understatement. Hell, to equate it to a volcano wouldn't be enough. Let's just hope critics and listeners alike remember PPP when they make their coveted best of 2009 lists. [21 January 2009] 
M83: Digital Shades Vol. 1M83's first in a series of ambient works is a hazy, inconsistent affair that is best suited to fill in as your latest rainy day soundtrack. 
DJ Signify: Of CitiesIt's dusty and covered in dirt. It's mellow yet banging. But, most importantly, it just might be the best new release of 2009. [16 January 2009] 
J-Boogie’s Dubtronic Science: Soul VibrationsJ-Boogie's latest jumps from one genre to the next for this mellow listen that, for better or for worse, could easily lull you to sleep. 
Large Pro: Main SourceLarge Pro kills it verbally and behind the boards on here, but he struggles when he sloppily wanders into unknown territory. [15 January 2009] 
Metermaids: NightlifeIf you happen to be in the market for a catchy and fun-loving cocktail of rock and hip-hop, then this is the album for you. [6 January 2009] 
K-the-I???: Yesterday, Today & TomorrowWhen K-the-I???'s bombastic delivery and Thavius Beck's apocalyptic production sync up, this album is unstoppable. Unfortunately, that occurs too infrequently. [5 January 2009] Eagles of Death Metal + Duke SpiritDespite the band’s name and the monikers given to its members, Eagles of Death Metal are no joke. [18 December 2008] Kings of Leon + We Are Scientists + The WhigsKings of Leon’s southern-influenced garage rock has morphed into an arena-sized sound that translates into one hell of a performance. [11 December 2008] 
DJ Mark Farina: Mushroom Jazz Vol. 6DJ Mark Farina treats the world to another sprawling party mix of downtempo and hip-hop that's sure to please newcomers and longtime Mushroom Jazz'ers. [10 December 2008] 
AIDS Wolf: Cities of GlassFans of Lightning Bolt and Arab on Radar could very well eat this up. Or, they might shrug it off as feeble bullshit. You can never tell with those kids anymore. [9 December 2008] 
Jurassic 5: J5If you somehow missed J5, maybe it's for the better now that you can experience this outstanding debut with a bunch of extra goodies. [8 December 2008] 
Cyne: Pretty Dark ThingsAfro-beat rhythms, backpacker rhymes, biting criticisms and head-nodding beats fill Cyne's latest that takes multiple listens to fully digest. [5 December 2008] 
The Foreign Exchange: Leave It All BehindPhonte and Nicolay hook up again for one of 2008's best, and most refreshing, albums. [25 November 2008] Atmosphere + Blueprint + Abstract RudeAs Atmosphere kicked their set off with "Like the Rest of Us" and "In Her Music Box", two of the mellowest pieces in their catalog, it became apparent this wouldn't be just another hip-hop show. [19 November 2008] 
Shawn Lee & Clutchy Hopkins: Clutch of the TigerLee and Hopkins turn some heads on here as they churn out more of what we have come to expect from these eclectic and talented oddballs. The DirtbombsRather than try to dazzle us with a bunch of silly antics or between song banter, The Dirtbombs put on a garage rock clinic that has made them one of the best live acts of the past 10 years. [11 November 2008] 
Blue Sky Black Death: Slow Burning LightsIf nothing else, Slow Burning Lights will officially put Blue Sky Black Death above their contemporaries. [10 November 2008] 
Damon Aaron: HighlandsDamon Aaron has crafted an album perfect for a day of lounging around or makin' babies. Take your pick, throw Highlands on, and enjoy. [6 November 2008] Liam Finn + The VeilsIt was clear as we all picked our jaws up off the floor that Liam Finn had put on a show others reach for but can hardly pull off. 
Common Market: Tobacco RoadTobacco Road might be a long and winded path, but it's certainly worth the effort. Just make sure to take a breather here and there. [3 November 2008] 
Dr. Dooom: Dr. Dooom 2Kool Keith, the king of avant-garde emcees, delivers an unbalanced, albeit enjoyable, album that shows he's still got it. [30 October 2008] 
The High Decibels: The High DecibelsThe High Decibels blend the blues with hip-hop on their self-titled debut to create a fresh, inspiring record. [24 October 2008] 
Murs: Murs for PresidentMurs for President is not the sell-out album fans were scared of, but it's also not up to the level of quality we have come to expect from Murray. [22 October 2008] 
Arabian Prince: Innovative Life: The Anthology, 1984-1989Although it's not perfect, Innovative Life is a strong showing of an unfortunately overlooked era in hip-hop. [13 October 2008] 
Portugal. The Man: Censored ColorsCensored Colors, Portugal. The Man's latest, is equal parts spaced-out rock and epic balladry, with hints of soul and classic rock thrown in for good measure. 
King Syze: The Labor UnionArmy of the Pharaohs affiliate King Syze delivers an unbalanced sophomore effort that, at the very least, shows shades of something great to come. [9 October 2008] 
Ras Kass: Institutionalized Vol. IIRas might still be at the top of his game as an emcee, but on Institutionalized Vol. II, he is backed by some of the worst beats heard in years. [8 October 2008] 
Delta Spirit: Ode to SunshineEvery year there is one album that comes out of nowhere, kicks you in the ass, and demands your attention. For me, Delta Spirit’s Ode to Sunshine is just that album. 
Her Space Holiday: XOXO, Panda and the New Kid RevivalThe first in Her Space Holiday's new folk-pop direction, this album puts Marc Bianchi's songwriting talents on full display as he captivates your ear with toe-tapping, playful melodies. [7 October 2008] 
Thievery Corporation: Radio RetaliationThis album, Thievery Corporation's fifth, is equal parts revolution and tradition. But it's unfortunately weighed down by too much of the same downtempo sounds we have all heard before. [3 October 2008] 
Rafter: Sweaty MagicBe sure to check Sweaty Magic out if you are in the market for an 18-minute freak-out. Even if you're not, it would be in your best interest to get a taste of Rafter's noisy genius. [2 October 2008] 
KaiserCartel: March ForthKaiserCartel might only be re-shaping the wheel with March Forth, but they do it a damn fine job of it. [1 October 2008] 
DJ Revolution: King of the DecksDJ Revolution Revolution uses King of the Decks to showcase his own talents and the skills of his friends, which range from DJ QBert to KRS-One to Evidence. [29 September 2008] 
Kardinal Offishall: Not 4 SaleEven if the title is misleading, Not 4 Sale has something for everyone. [25 September 2008] 
The Shanghai Restoration Project: Instrumentals Day and NightDave Liang -- a one-man music-making machine -- and his numerous collaborators have turned what could have been elevator music into an album full of style and substance. [22 September 2008] 
Michael Franti & Spearhead: All Rebel RockersAll Rebel Rockers might not be perfect, far from it, but it proves that Michael Franti & Spearhead can remain relevant. [17 September 2008] 
Fakts One: Long RangeThis is exactly what I was hoping for: A mix of outstanding emcees with even better production. [12 September 2008] 
Vordul Mega: MegagraphittiWhile the hits on Megagraphitti far outweigh the misses, this album is still far from perfect. [8 September 2008] Melvins + Big Business + PornFrom dueling drummers to "The Star-Spangled Banner" to a stunningly perfect cover of "My Generation", the Melvins put on more than just a show. [5 September 2008] 
Elsiane: HybridAs a debut, this album is certainly a strong indication of what Elsiane is capable of recording in the future. 
Xu Xu Fang: The Mourning SonIt's not hard to tell there is something truly great brewing throughout this eclectic, topnotch EP. 
People Under the Stairs: The Om YearsAlthough the first disc is your standard grab-bag of "greatest hits," the second, shorter CD is filled with rarities and b-sides that perhaps many People Under the Stairs fans haven't heard before. [2 September 2008] 
The Invizzibl Men: The UnveilingIf the Invizzibl Men can maintain this album's flashes of brilliance for their next record, I fear for the future of other emcees. [29 August 2008] 
Pierre de Reeder: The Way That It WasPierre de Reeder certainly isn't treading any new ground or shattering molds here, but he has shown he can succeed on his own. [28 August 2008] 
Freddie Foxxx: Crazy Like a FoxxxWhile time will tell if this record reaches classic status, we can only hope it gives Freddie Foxxx the shine he so deserves. 
Jim Boggia: Misadventures in StereoAlthough Jim Boggia doesn't re-invent the wheel on Misadventures in Stereo, he and his session musicians succeed in crafting simplistic, well-written pop songs. [26 August 2008] 
Reks: Grey HairsReks' Grey Hairs treats us to a consistent, moody, and ultimately solid album that will be on constant repeat. [15 August 2008] The Ting TingsLive, the Ting Tings sounded a lot heavier and grittier than on record. Their bubblegum pop-punk came to life and lost its studio gloss, elevating their songs to another level. [13 August 2008] 
Clouds: We Are Above YouClouds' sophomore record is an above-average effort that gets lost in its inability to find solid ground. [8 August 2008] 
Murs & 9th Wonder: Sweet LordKeeping in line with the other 9th and Murs efforts, Sweet Lord is a 10-track, under-40-minute collection of braggadocio, humor, soul, and boom-bap. And it's free! [7 August 2008] 
Snowgoons: Black SnowYou will no doubt grow bored of this seemingly never-ending album that proves Snowgoons need some variety in their lives. 
SJ Esau: Small VesselSJ Esau mastermind Sam Wisternoff is truly becoming a master of his craft and that is evident on Small Vessel, his second Anticon release. [1 August 2008] 
Architecture in Helsinki: Like It or NotMostly a testament to Architecture in Helsinki’s newfound love affair with the ‘80s. 
Kon & Amir: Off Track, Vol. 2: QueensKon & Amir aren't simply concerned over building something new out of a relic. It seems like they want to educate others while cherishing the music of the past. [31 July 2008] Boris + Torche + CloudsBoris’ show ended just as it had begun, with the beating of a gong. [30 July 2008] 
Opio: Vulture’s Wisdom, Vol. 1Opio, who began releasing solo records in 2005, is primed to once again dazzle underground fans with his latest. 
Gridlink: Amber GrayBe prepared for just over 11 minutes of ass-kicking blast-beats and screaming. [28 July 2008] 
Presto: State of the ArtHip-hop heads across the board should give State of the Art a spin. [21 July 2008] 
I Was a Cub Scout: I Want You To Know That There Is Always HopeThe now defunct duo's debut has its flaws, but it's still a fine effort worthy of a listen. [14 July 2008] 
Eliot Lipp: The OutsideJust try to sit still while listening to Lipp's intoxicating production on this blend of early hip-hop and techno. [7 July 2008] 
We Are Scientists: Brain Thrust MasteryAfter their riff-driven, catchy, and enjoyable major label debut, We Are Scientists are back with a solid, but safe, album that is a small step backwards. [3 July 2008] 
Shawn Lee’s Ping Pong Orchestra: Miles of StylesAfter six Ping Pong Orchestra albums Shawn Lee has gone global. 
PPT: DenglishThis Texas trio dons faux-English accents for a fun hip-hop album sure to please old school and underground fans. [2 July 2008] 
Odd Nosdam: Pretty Swell ExplodeFans of Odd Nosdam will absolutely eat this collection up. And so will newcomers. [1 July 2008] 
Electric President: Sleep WellElectric President's sophomore effort is another modest electronic album made for rainy days spent in bed. [23 June 2008] 
Flying Lotus: Los AngelesThis album is a swirling, cohesive trip through outerspace that begs for repeated listens. [13 June 2008] 
Braille: The IV EditionWhile Braille holds his own as an emcee, the excellent production on this unbalanced album tends to overshadow his talents on the mic. [5 June 2008] 
James Pants: WelcomeStones Throw's latest release is an electro throwback to the '80s that’s sure to inspire your inner dancer. [29 May 2008] 
The Grouch: Show You the WorldShow You the World shows that the Grouch is spreading himself too thin. [15 May 2008] 
John Doe: The Last Amateur (One Hour Photo)The Last Amateur is even more proof that Doe is one of the genre's best. [7 May 2008] 
Curumin: JapanPopShowCurumin is further proof of Quannum Projects' impressive roster that continues to innovate and diversify popular music. [6 May 2008] 
Metaform: Standing on the Shoulders of GiantsAlthough it's not as groundbreaking as Endtroducing ..., this album makes a strong case for being one of the top records of the year. [5 May 2008] 
Astral: SleepwalkerBy the time the crunchy drums and droning guitars are over, you're left with a solid album by a group that's sure to blossom in the coming years. 
Goldfinger: Hello DestinyHello Destiny reminds you that nostalgia can kick you in the pants sometimes. [23 April 2008] 
Outlines: Our Lives Are Too ShortBoth catchy and cliché, this electro-jazz album flirts with hip-hop and R&B for a diverse, but ultimately lacking, listen. [21 April 2008] 
Randolph: Lonely EdenYou'll most likely agree with Stevie Wonder, who sang Randolph's praises, about the magic of this record. [18 April 2008] 
Domer: Vaguest VacationThis album is refreshingly fun and catchy at a time when the underground hip-hop scene has become oversaturated by generic, wanna-be golden age rappers. [15 April 2008] 
Ghostland Observatory: Robotique MajestiqueAlthough slightly more dance-oriented, this album is disappointingly more of what you would expect from the Austin, Texas, electro-rock duo, but with a glossier finish. [7 April 2008] 
Amplive: Rainydayz RemixesThe California producer maintains the integrity of some of last year's best songs while also breathing new life into them on this excellent remix project. [21 March 2008] 
Akrobatik: Absolute ValueAkrobatik’s Absolute Value is equal parts braggadocio and introspection with solid production that matches the Boston native’s aggressive delivery. [3 March 2008] BlogsMixed Media: Georgia Anne Muldrow & Declaime - “Endure” (MP3) [8 January 2010]Mixed Media: The Best Singles of 2009: The Dead Weather – “Hang You From the Heavens” [10 December 2009]Mixed Media: D.Black - “Yesterday” (video) [2 December 2009]Mixed Media: Best Music Videos of 2009: Andrew Martin [30 November 2009]Mixed Media: Zo! - ...Just Visiting Too (free EP) [3 November 2009]Notes from the Road: CMJ 2009: Day 4 - The Foreign Exchange [26 October 2009]Mixed Media: The Foreign Exchange - “House of Cards” (video) [27 August 2009]Mixed Media: Nicolay - Shibuya: City Lights Vol. 2 (new album / MP3) [28 July 2009]Mixed Media: El Michels Affair - “C.R.E.A.M.” (MP3) [28 April 2009]Mixed Media: The Delta Spirit - “People C’mon” (video) [22 April 2009]Mixed Media: Tanya Morgan - Live at SXSW (MP3) [27 March 2009]Mixed Media: Nine Inch Nails/Jane’s Addiction/Street Sweeper Tour Dates and EP [20 March 2009]Mixed Media: Finale - A Pipe Dream and a Promise Megamix (MP3) [18 March 2009]Mixed Media: Themselves - theFREEhoudini (download / tour dates)Mixed Media: Donwill - “Laura’s Song” (video) [16 March 2009] |
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Music
:. Sade: Soldier of Love :. Fear Factory: Mechanize :. The Brunettes: Paper Dolls :. Locksley: Be in Love :. Little Girls: Concepts :. Reigning Sound: Love and Curses
Books
:. I Want to Be Left Behind: Finding Rapture Here On Earth by Brenda Peterson :. I See a Darkness by Richard Kleist
News
:. The once and future Sims :. ‘The Phantom,’ ‘A Serious Man’ top list of latest Blu-ray releases :. Leno’s prime-time send-off to be departure from tradition :. INTERVIEW:Larry Holmes and Joe Frazier recall when they were ‘Facing Ali’ :. Sony’s two-volume ‘Bad Girls of Film Noir’ sets bring them out of the shadows
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