Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Welcome once more to Hip Hop Wednesday here on Side One: Track One.  My column will be short and sweet this week, since it seems I’m suffering from the Unicorn Flu, which is like the Swine Flu, but much more beautiful and with a horn.

Expect next time around to be much less affected by Unicorns.  Probably.  By the way, here's what to watch out for, just in case it comes for you.

:Oddisee - Don't Sleep (Featuring Invincible And Finale):  Coming to us from beautiful Washington DC, producer and sometimes MC Oddisee has put out his first “solo” album which actually includes guest appearances from many MCs, including my faves Invincible, Black Milk, J-Live, and Prince Po.  This is definitely one to purchase – laid back bumpy samples that have a great tone for summer cruisin’.  You know my weakness for Detroit femMC Invincible, so here’s the track she cameos on, along with Finale and a sweet soul sample.  "Take a shot of workahol and relax," as she says.

:Skillz - Pastor Skillz:  "Some of ya'll are going to hell if you keep leaving bible study to watch Dave Chappelle"  I think it's fair to say that most of us would most definitely hit up church on Sunday if it were anywhere as honest and jaw dropping exciting as what goes on here.  Too bad it’s the only stellar improvisation Skillz included on the new Okay Player comp: True Notes Volume 1.

:Doom - Microwave Mayo:  John pointed out a track a couple of weeks back, but I figured you could use another stream of conscious track from the master of nonchalant rhymes.  Personally, I'm loving the drumbeat on this track, and Doom’s singular way with words.  You should really pick up Born Like This is you haven't already, as it's packed with stuff like this.

- Leah Manners -



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