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dena // cash, diamond rings, swimming pools

Born and raised in Bulgaria. DENA is the nouveau Hip Hop global flavored project of Berlin-based songwriter and vocalist Denitza Todorova. It sounds (and looks) like she’s set to make a big splash, everywhere. Initially, DENA’s style reminded me of the Beastie Boys meets M.I.A. with a smidgin of Santigold tossed in just to keep things interestingly relevant. I love the way she attacks the mic with faux bravado without pretentiousness, while still maintaining her integrity and originality. This is authentic and fun inducing Hip Hop. Remember, the way it used to be. Let me know what you think. Peace. Continue reading “dena // cash, diamond rings, swimming pools”

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shy around strangers // never look down

New York gang of three Shy Around Strangers have a knack for penning authentic (and performing) balls-to-the-wall rock fare without an iota of pretentiousness. Check out Emily Powers and the brothers Dawson (Saric and Michael) kicking up a lot of dust with the song, “Never Look Down”. The band is still putting the finishing touches on their debut EP due out in August. And although I really like the jam laden “Never Look Down” version, I believe I may be over the moon for the acoustic set. Check ’em both out after the jump. Peace. Continue reading “shy around strangers // never look down”

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space flakes // best life of my time (official video)

Finally! One of the best tracks of 2011, “Best Life Of My Time” by Space Flakes has some optical eye candy. I must say the video is as trippy as the song is good. The video looks like the love child of Dr. Seuss and Louis Carol. However, it turns out to be some surreal animation inspired by Emery Hawkins circa 1977. Somehow it is fitting as the perfect representation of rampant, and blatant Western consumptionism. Yet, in the end it is the perfect visual accompaniment to Space Flakes’ sonically superior musical swag. Party on! Peace. Continue reading “space flakes // best life of my time (official video)”

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manor // afghan hound

Manor is Caitlin Duff and Nathaniel Morse of Melbourne, Australia. The song “Afghan Hound,” in my opinion sounds like the shadows of haunting memories dripping with sweet honey and melancholy, it is the sonic approximation of a warm blanket on a cold night. And then there is the song, “Rhodesia,” which is a dogeared book of cherished poetry slowly dissolving within hungry flame. Both of these wonderful songs demand one’s attention from the very first note. You’ll gladly surrender and give them their due. However, you will be rewarded beyond measure. Now, I am expectant and in need of more from this very talented duo. Peace. Continue reading “manor // afghan hound”

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the fiber // away with words

Sjaak Kassies has this project called The Fiber and it keeps him busy. His latest release is the single, “Away With Words” and it is a melancholy piece of music shrouded in setting suns and thunder storms. It is a song best served with the lights dim and one’s heart heavy and introspective. The Fiber is building stone by stone, song by song an impressive body of work. Hopefully, we’ll see a complete album in the near future because every time a new song drops I immediately want more, much more. Peace. Continue reading “the fiber // away with words”