This was my first time listening through a Paul McCartney album. I’m glad it was one that represents experimentation; his third solo studio album embraces synthesizers and other trippy techniques. Originally released in 1980, followed by a re-issue in 2011. Not much needs to be said about Paul, ya’ll know he’s the shit.
I’m taken by “Waterfalls”, it’s a beauty.
– Jimi Jaxon
All I can say about this release is..DAMN. Enjoy a more in-depth analysis of the TNGHT EP via Live For The Funk, and head over to Pitchfork for an interview with Hudson Mohawke and Lunice; the duo behind these glorious hip-hop experiments. I’ve included TNGHT’s recent mix for BBC Radio 1Xtra’s “Diplo and Friends”. Warning, this set is not for the timid. It’s drugged up hood shit with more reverse bleep outs than you can shake a stick at.
– Jimi Jaxon
Shame on me for posting this feature without any background. I can do better. Known all over as an American singer-songwriter, record producer, model and actress, Ashanti is quite the lady. I feel the three songs I’m posting show her at her best. Her soothing voice paired with fresh takes on R&B, soul and hip hop made a lasting impact on the world of music. Back in the day when I was in Junior High, these tracks were huge. In 2002, “Foolish” amazingly sold 500K+ records in it’s first week of release, and still holds up strong in today’s Top 40 world (which I’d say has plummeted since the day’s of Ashanti’s first releases). Her debut self-titled album set a record for the biggest opening week sales of a new female artist, in front of Alicia Keys and Lauryn Hill. Adding to this achievement in the same week, she was noted as the first female artist to simultaneously hold the top 2 spots on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Foolish” and “What’s Luv?” with Fat Joe. Records were shattered once again with her “Always On Time”, “Foolish” and “What’s Luv?” all placing in the top 10 of the Hot 100 charts in the same week. She is the first woman to accomplish this, the only other artist to do so are The Beatles.
– Jimi Jaxon
No stranger to Disco Droppings, Kid Smpl is back once again. Download “Escape Pod” for free via XLR8R. You’ll have to wait until August 7th to pick up the full release (Hush Hush Records), but to hold you over I’ve talked with Kid Smpl about these new tunes and such.
DD First things first, I’m very happy you got accepted into the Red Bull Music Academy. The competition was especially fierce this year.
KS Ya I’m still in a bit of shock! Really excited for it, I think it’ll be a great experience.
DD How do you hope to be challenged by the program?
KS I’ve heard that it’s a non-stop and extremely focused experience, so I’m hoping that it challenges me to push my production to the next level, as well as make a lot of great connections.
DD Exciting stuff! Now, our friend Alex Ruder, contacted me about his label’s first release. Hush Hush Records begins with your “Escape Pod” EP. Is this the first time you’ve been asked to create a label’s starting release?
KS Yes, and I was pretty excited to do it. It’s one of my favorite releases, of the one’s I’ve done. The full length album that follows this release is probably my favorite project.
DD I’ve enjoyed this EP more and more with each listen, Especially “Pulse” and that remix by D33J. Alex describes the label as having a “multi-genre aesthetic, elaborating on the world of headphones, late-night travels, intimate encounters and contemplative rides on public transportation.” Do you appreciate these kinds of musical descriptions as opposed to genres?
KS Ya, I do appreciate the descriptions as they’re often not as limiting as genres can be. That particular description is often labeled “Night Bus” now, which is something I’m completely comfortable with, and that Hush Hush also embraces. I like it because the term isn’t necessarily the name of a genre but more of a vibe.
DD Mmm, I think it’s fitting and like you said, not as limiting as genres can be. Last question, your playing at Standard next month (The Baltic Room, 8/10). Have you thought about your set?
KS Ya I’ve thought about my set a bit. I think I’m gonna play some remixes of my own tunes that I’ve been getting in for this “Escape Pod” remix EP. Also, probably some ballroom, jersey club, and a bit of grime. That’s really the dance music that I’m feeling right now.
DD Can’t wait to hear it all, cheers dude!
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– Jimi Jaxon
dd 