According to famed record producer, songwriter Kara DioGuardi, Nick Nittoli has "what it takes to write a hit song." In the last few years alone he has co-written and produced and written for artists like French Montana, Jessie J, Zendaya, Snoop Dogg and more. As a self taught musician, writer, and producer from Garfield NJ, Nick's first inspirations came from listening to the "King of pop", Michael Jackson. His very first words were "Annie are you OK", lyrics from the Michael's hit song "Smooth Criminal." Nick Nittoli is no stranger to the spotlight. He snagged 4th place on Bravo's reality competition, Platinum Hit (hosted by Jewel), and currently lives in Hollywood CA where he continues to write and produce music with big names, including himself, with his latest single "God".
"I'm feeling like a god, boy the music must be heaven," Nittoli sings. His rapping style is smooth, and filled with creative phrasing and wordplay. He's not afraid to profess disdain for the mainstream radio or the people who doubted him throughout his career, stating "Fuck the radio, I'm only coming for direct hits,"and "there's only me and my reflection." All of which seems to fuel the all powerful, God-like energy and production style he brings to life in this track. Throughout the song the punchy trap beat builds and breaks with each verse and chorus. The production features samples from sermons and diverse religious settings. Underneath Nick's rapping you can hear haunting choir vocals interwoven with orchestral bass drops, almost simulating deep string sections and brass-like textures. Each element bringing out the intensity of this dubstep, house shaking, force to be reckoned with song.
Make sure to follow Nick Nittoli on Spotify and Itunes for future releases.
The Band of the Hawk is a "southern hip hop crew with east coast lyrical influence and some west coast swag". Leader of this talented crew is Noah Archangel, a noted producer, engineer, video director, and beat-maker. Other current members include King aka Yeaux Majesty, Ash Ra aka Houey Freeman fka
Ashtonomics, P.Ey3, Grynd Seazon, and Juskwam. Based out of Houston TX, The Band of the Hawk believes in "texture over bombast, interpretation over definition". On their latest release #BOHUP, we are greeted with laid back hip-hop beats, infusing samples, and nostalgic lo-fi drum beats underneath lyrically diverse themes, and vocal styles. #BOHUP is the collaboration of The Band of the Hawk, and the Underground Pyramid. (Underground Pyramid is the name of the
Crew. It includes original Band of the Hawk members King and Noah
Archangel plus newer members Ashtonomics and DatBoi3). What's great about this group is how they maintain individuality on each track, while simultaneously working together to bring out the best in each song. #BOHUP also features 2 bonus tracks from up and coming acts in the Houston hip hop scene, Redbone, and Jeremiah with stand out vocal performance, and ear for melodies.
Another stand out track (out of many) include "Bruce Lee", for unique production choices, and strong lyrics, "wake up, wipe the crust from my third eye, meditate, give my thanks to the most high". Overall this mixtape is chocked full of talented Texas lyricists and production, we look forward to seeing what is next from The Band of the Hawk, and what other artists they may take 'under their wings' on future releases.
You can listen to #BOHUP in it's entirety on their website:
Elias-Omar, aka "Avarice" is a hip hop artist based out of Danbury, CT. He is also a member of the group 'No Definition', which consists of Lord Lucky Leftfield, and Divine Lava. Avarice is also a fraction of the conglomerate of artists known as 'The S.I.N.'. Avarice blends his unique voice with elements of jazz, ambient, and contemporary sounds.
On his latest release "Words and Sounds" we are taken on a journey through the struggles of being an independent artist, climbing above adversity and the negativity that surrounds us; while also digging deep and analyzing the controversial nature of police brutality and racism. Intriguing, thought provoking, and well produced, we introduce "Words and Sounds":
Track by Track
Anomaly 2.0
The word "Anomaly" is defined as "something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected." The perfect title for the unique blend of sounds Avarice has created on this track. Industrial beats mesh seamlessly with a cavalcade of smooth flowing lyrics. One thought blending into the next over top of an eerie bass and synth groove. Lead guitar, organs, and jazz piano playing wistfully in the background. "I bless 'em when their souls needed a medic, so I wash my hands, prepping for surgery"
Fallen Angels
Emotive saxophone kicks things off, sweeping high over softly played piano and ambient strings. A fragmented drum beat creates a unique collision of rhythmic lyrics and atmospheric background sounds. Fallen Angels rings true, telling a story of staying true to yourself. Reflecting on what life could be like if music had not become a facet of everyday life. "happy song" when it doesn't come naturally. The track fades out into the jazzy intro saxophone rising and swelling with the choppy intro beat. "Trust me, no matter what, we gonna elevate"
Why
A driving drum beat, matched with strong straightforward lyrics "...and all I see is liars and deceivers, it ain't no surprise" commenting on how easy it could be to fall into the negativity of your environment and friends circle. "For years i recorded the battle within, my love, my lies, and all my sins", "caught up in the prison of the mind, systematic lies..." A true testament to the daily conflicts we all face, trapped within the confines of one's thoughts; Avarice finds a creative outlet to express the battles within and find peace through music.
Good Evening
Layered synth pads, a chill out beat, with ambient background chatter. People talking in a bar or large work space. "Rinse away drama in the moonlight", time to kick back and relax, Avarice reflects and analyzes his environment, the streetlights that light the night streets. Pouring some drinks, ridding yourself of stress and try to just enjoy life. "Whatever happens happens just enjoy the evening"
(See lyric video below)
Hands Up
Aggressive and direct, "Hands Up" touches on the controversial nature of police brutality and racism happening currently in the United States."Ready to risk it all in just a second, and my crime? self-preservation..." The sad reality of the political climate we live in. Where "Self-preservation" could get a person thrown in jail, or shot by those sworn to protect and serve. Pulsing bass, and synth leads ring out as the drums crash in with explosive vocals, echoing the anger and outrage. Halfway through the song you can hear sound-bytes of gunshots and distant yelling.
Final Destination
"Most find joy in your struggle...sit there laughing while you handle your grind". Beautiful piano in a bright room sets up this hopeful, reflective song. Accompanied by bass and layered percussion, the song builds into each section. Flowing lyrics twist and tug at your thoughts, creating imagery and provoke warm uplifting feelings. Make sure your have your headphones in for this one, gotta hear that bass groove with the drums. "The duration of your dedication is in direct relation to your final destination, your final destination" A poignant commentary on perseverance and focusing on what's important to you in life, trusting that it will take you where you want to go.
Make sure to check out "Words and Sounds" on Spotify, and Itunes.
Moo-You is a hip hop artist, songwriter, and producer from the longhorn state, Texas. On his latest album "#IAMMOOYOU" we go on a journey through heartbreak, reinvention, and the never-ending climb to success with art.
His songs range in emotion from angry and bitter, to proud and determined. A strong powerful voice pushing through the struggles of everyday life and relationships with women and the fighting to stay positive when surrounded by negativity.
Mixing deep snare and hi-hat patterns, over ambient piano, and synth tracks, Moo- You blends trap with smooth r&b music. Vocals sing sweetly in unison to create big catchy hooks in the chorus's of "Feeling You", and "Such a Beautiful Thing".
On the last track of #IAMMOOYOU we are left with an overwhelming feeling that things are looking up for Moo-You as he sings about not letting anyone get you down. "..you know what they say about apples, and how they don't fall from the tree? Started out a product of my environment, now my environment is a product of me".
Make sure to listen to #IAMMOOYOU in full below and follow Moo-You on twitter @iammooyou
Artist: Louis Goldwater Album: To Whom It May Concern Instagram Twitter Soundcloud http://www.goldenagecollective.com/
Louis Goldwater is an alternative hip hop artist from Pittsburgh PA. After the success of his previous albums "NeoHumanism" and "The Codex", Goldwater is releasing his 3'rd LP "To Whom It May Concern". The entire album was recorded in his home studio set up under his own Pittsburgh based record label Golden Age Collective.
“To Whom It May Concern” is a unique, well-crafted
collection of alternative hip hop songs, flowing seamlessly from track to track
like a seasoned live show. LG showcases a long list of producers on this album (Blunted,
Nicholas Cheung, Neckclippa, Taylor King, Exile, DJ Mooskie, SmoothSupaStar,
Bitoy Beatz, Tone Jonez, and Ca$shous Clay) and a few collaborations (Samantha,
Joe Steff, ZvolZ, Que Dafoe). Even with all of the different hands in the
creation process, Goldwater remains genuine, and unchanged throughout the album.
With 12 tracks, and a bonus song, there is something for every music lover to enjoy.
Whether it’s a slow lyrical flow over top a smooth jazz chill out, a quick-paced
rap battle mixed with trap beats, or a throwback 90’s hip hop brimming with interesting
experimental choices. Goldwater’s voice is smooth, and casual, like having a
conversation with an old friend, reassuring and warm.
Here are some of the standout tracks from “To Whom It May
Concern”
"I stay up at night to create what i write, I feel it inside, keepin' the music alive"
Before listening to the new album "Take Flight" from Northern California artist Sick Bird, I did a little digging to get to know the man behind the music, hip hop emcee / producer Jeff Greene. With humble beginnings in Detroit Michigan, Greene has been writing, performing, and self releasing his music since 2008. Having ten albums under his belt, Greene pulls out all the stops on his newest release "Take Flight". With smooth flowing rhymes, refreshing tenacity, and an impressive array of producers, this album shines from start to finish.
On the standout track "Take Aim, Take Flight (feat. DJ Badminton)", it's nearly impossible not to move to the beat as Greene raps about his past vices and how his passion for writing keeps him on the right track. "Survival (feat. DJ Smuv)" is the 'fist in the air' anthem, where Sick Bird is the underdog, and we're all cheering him on like Rocky Balboa in the ring with Apollo Creed.
The rest of the Take Flight is the perfect blend of Grime, Trap, EDM, and Hip Hop production. With influences like the Beastie Boys, Biggie, Aesop Rock, and Tech N9ne, there's a little something for every alternative hip hop lover.
...and you're in luck, you can get the whole album right here: Itunes
"Beast off the leash,fighting til the day I die, fighting for survival"
