May 24, 2013

“Atomic Man” - Portugal. The Man

I used to be a huge fan of this band. But somewhere along the road they fell off my radar. Maybe it was the Atlantic signing, maybe because they started putting out too much music, who knows. But I recently revisited their catalogue and it really got me hyped for Evil Friends out June 4. Especially since I learned it’s produced by the magnificent Danger Mouse. And the crazy thing is apparently Danger Mouse reached out to them, not vice versa as you’d expect. Based off that eagerness for a collaboration alone, I know this project has greatness written all over it. Oh, and if you’ve never seen a Portugal. The Man video before, this is pretty much the norm. 

May 23, 2013

“Take My Hand” - Charli XCX

True Romance is still one of my favorite pop albums of the year so far. I play this shit on repeat. Obsession.

May 13, 2013

“Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe” - Kendrick Lamar (Extended Version)

Ain’t no funeral like a TDE funeral. 

May 12, 2013

“Locked In Closets” - Solange

Obsession.

May 9, 2013

“Beautiful” - Mariah Carey ft. Miguel

I’m still trying to figure out why Miguel gets the feature cred here considering he sings 97 percent of the song and I’m sure wrote the majority of it. But, hey, that swindle created such a perfect summer love song. 

May 7, 2013

“Rio” - Theophlius London

It just wouldn’t be summer without some new Theo.

May 6, 2013

“Who Do We Think We Are” - John Legend ft. Rick Ross

A couple months ago, Legend gave us a taste of Love in the Future with the “Winter Song”-sampling teaser “The Beginning.” It too reflects on an epic romance and, as good as it is, didn’t even make the cut for the album. Artists like Legend flourish during two phases of their life: love and heartbreak. Right now, we’re enjoying Legend in love on the verge of marriage and every note exudes that joy. This song explores the shameless fantasies inspired by that love, creating a world of extravagant sensuality. June 24, I need you now. 

May 2, 2013

“Q.U.E.E.N.” - Janelle Monae ft. Erykah Badu

There comes a time in life when two avant-gard divas join forces to create an anthem for rebels, gays, artists, and thinkers. And, well, that time is now. When I think about how much time has passed since Janelle released the ArchAndroid three years ago and the changes brought forth in her absence, I’m reminded just how boring most soul singers really are. Great singers, that’s undeniable, but their complacency lacks the spirit of individuality. Then when I see Janelle get into her groove in preparation of The Electric Lady, I’m reminded how much this genre and industry needs fiercely independent women like her. And the people she surrounds herself with — Badu, Solange, etc. — give me such hope for this movement of Queens.

April 10, 2013

“What I Like” - Charli XCX

So, I’ve been out the Tumblr game for like a month. It wasn’t intentional, grad work just brought me down. But, I’m back like the music never stopped. And I’m in love with Charli XCX’s new album True Romance. You’ve heard her work on Icona Pop’s intensely overplayed “I Love It,” but the full Charli XCX experience comes with her debut. Like the fucking spawn of Robyn and Marina & the Diamonds, it’s one of 2013’s best pop records. And if she doesn’t release “Stay Away” as a single, I’ll raise hell. Obsession.  

March 6, 2013

“Unorthodox” - Joey Bada$$ 

I will never not love videos like these. And I feel the same way about kids like Joey who try and resurrect a time before their own. I got the opportunity to see Joey and the Pro Era crew perform at my university last night. It’s alway a treat to see artists in their infancy just getting used to the live stage and the persona they wish to create on it. I was especially proud to see him spit sans backing track and, also, freestyle. 

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