NYS Music 2023

Tag: New Album

  • Best of Hip Hop 2023: MVW and Valee No Longer Looking for Valeedation

    With hip hop firmly entrenched within pop music, artists tend to chase a sound in search of mainstream validation. However, every so often, a sound usually existing within its own niche crowd, that captures ears for its inventiveness. In making Valeedation, the duo of Valee and Staten Island native MVW have created their magnum opus (for now) and firmly established their sound within hip hop’s redundant landscape.

    Valee (left) and MVW (right) have teamed for of the unique projects of 2023.

    Background to Valeedation

    Prior to this 2023 release, MVW’s hip hop journey began with two Valee assisted albums released in consecutive years. Despite its fresh perspective, MVW’s prior albums included their share of Hills and Valleys, while maintaining a sense of novelty. While Valee has long-established a niche audience in hip hop for his slick-talking, luxurious idioms, he lacked a go-to producer to consistently bring the best out of him. Correspondingly, as the classically trained MVW cast a wide net for artists to feature, he would not find a better match for his minimalist style than Valee. In essence, Valeedation is a continuance of the unique language that they’ve developed through their shared artistic vision. 

     

    Valeedation Review

    After all, cultivating and establishing a style of production is no easy task. Namely, MVW’s prior efforts maintained an ebb-and-flow between minimalist instrumentation and raging vocals. While this kept the listener on edge, to did very little for the albums sequencing. Conversely, on Valeedation, it all comes together as MVW along with Valee bring about his most cohesive effort yet.

    Valeedation is MVW’s most cohesive effort yet.

    Introduced to the world with the release of singles “Pistachio” and “Tailor Swift,” MVW juxtaposes Valee’s nonchalant delivery with meticulous instrumentation blending into a sound coined as “museum rap.” In light, setting the tone for the album’s easy-going feel.

    Throughout Valeedation, Valee’s usual off-beat, luxurious discourse finds refinement, resulting in extremely digestible-yet-unique songs. For instance, Valee’s concentrated flows and rhymes carries is a tone setter for much of the album. Meanwhile, MVW is meticulous with his isntrument placement, with violins and pianos taking turns in rhythmic dominance. Moreover, records like “Yo Yo,” “Ain’t Exotic,” “Metro PCS” “Shrimp Fried Rice,” — and standout track “Liquid”– leave the Valeedation with a lasting feel-good identity. Thus, even when MVW and Valee deviate rhythmically on songs like “Tailor Swift,” it is only a quick detour before returning to its sonic seance. Together with a host of agreeable features — including standout showings from Tony Shhnow (“Yo Yo”) and Zeelopers (“Metro PCS”) — Valeedation stands as diverse musical oasis.

  • mxmtoon, Live in Brooklyn!

    On December 15th, the indie-pop luminary mxmtoon/Maia wrapped up her “plum blossom (revisited) tour” in style at the cozy Roulette venue in Brooklyn, her adopted home. Despite her Bay Area origins, the artist warmly acknowledged the show as a second hometown gig, solidifying the special bond she shares with the Brooklyn crowd. The night was a whirlwind of distinctive moments, from a fan capturing the event with a 3DS to the collective knuckle-cracking orchestrated by Maia, showcasing both the uniqueness of her fanbase and her penchant for the offbeat.

    In a touching moment, the emotional crescendo transpired during the performance of “Stuck.” Overwhelmed by a fan project featuring signs proclaiming “you are more than enough for us,” Maia paused and restarted the song, getting overwhelmed with emotion and tearing up a bit over the profound connection her music forms with her dedicated followers.

    The concert became an interactive experience when Maia encouraged the audience to join her in a spirited rendition of “Prom Dress,” a poignant moment of shared emotion. Adding layers of sentimentality, Mxmtoon revealed that “Hong Kong” held a special place in her heart, as it was her mom’s favorite among all her compositions. The setlist, a carefully curated blend of fan favorites and surprises, included an unreleased jewel titled “Sarah,” a clever and quippy exploration of the concept of hate-watching YouTube videos.

    The night unfolded as more than just a concert; it was a narrative journey with Maia providing glimpses into the stories behind her songs. The anecdote about “I Feel Like Chet,” a song where her youthful enunciation led to amusing misinterpretations (like “I feel like shit”), showcased her ability to infuse humor into her reflections. The concert concluded with an encore, featuring a cover of Vance Joy’s “Riptide,” cementing the evening as a nuanced exchange between artist and audience, leaving an indelible mark on all those present.

    Setlist: cliché, the idea of you, mona lisa, sad disco, fever dream, porcelain, i feel like chet, temporary nothing, sarah (unreleased), hong kong, stuck, feelings are fatal, prom dress

    Encore: Riptide (Vance Joy cover)

  • Jersey Native Wiseboy Jeremy Releases New Single ‘Do I Not?’

    The drowned-out, underwater, lyrical east-coast sound is alive and well. In like manner, New Jersey native Wiseboy Jeremy brings the perspective of a hip hop every man while rhyming over jazz-tinged, contemplative production. His latest release, “Do I Not,” featuring Phoenix James is an ode to feeling like an underachiever and underwhelming life circumstances and “battling with ego.” Using a drowsy, sub-merged flow he sings on the chorus, “Do I not do enough, Do I not do enough for you.”

    ‘Do I Not?’ is for those lost within. Those looking elsewhere to find the answers that they end up discovering within themselves.

    – Wiseboy Jeremy
    Wiseboy Jeremy releases new single "Do I Not?"b.
    Wiseboy Jeremy plays the role of hip hop every man on “Do I Not?”

    Moreover, Wiseboy Jeremy has released an equally expressive music video for “Do I Not?” directed by himself and redbrags. In like manner, the music video tells a similar story of every day lethargy. From taking the train, doing laundry, a date night with your girl and the mental quarell between following your dreams and holding down a job. All in all, Jeremy paints the picture of he build up of inadequacy within every day life.

    Furthermore, “Do I Not?” sets the stage for Wiseboy Jeremy’s forthcoming project, Pumpkin Seeds, set for release in January of 2024. His last effort, 2022’s Still Chldrn is a meditative collection of stories painted over unquantized, Blues & Hip-Hop laced production. Its success led Jeremy to the eyes of publications such as Pigeons & Planes (where he won Best New Artist), Bandcamp, Frank Ocean’s Homer Radio, Daily Chiefers, Sheesh Media & more.

  • Benny The Butcher Drops Scintillating New Single And Music Video Ahead of New Album

    Benny The Butcher continues to ramp things up in anticipation of his Def Jam debut, Everybody Can’t Go. His latest drop, the thumping new single “One Foot In,” features frequent collaborator Stove God Cooks and sees Benny The Butcher continue his evolution into the mainstream.

    Benny The Butcher "One Foot In" covert art

    Accompanied by a scintillating music video, Benny The Butcher and Stove God exchange bars on life in the streets. Meanwhile, the hook illustrates this duality as Benny examines a life with one foot in the streets and one in the rap game. In like manner, the music video illustrates the parallels between life and the streets and life as a successful rapper. Coupled with more digestible production, the uptempo street anthem offers to fill the void of authentic street records that littered hip hop of yesteryear. However, despite the uptick in production budget, the Buffalo native has maintained his raw and descriptive style, with lyrics full of vivid imagery.

    And this one for the hustlers I was handing ounces. Now look at God, I wrote this in my Grammy outfit.

    – Benny The Butcher

    After all, “One Foot In” follows the release of Benny’s previous single, “Big Dog,” featuring Lil Wayne, who is no stranger to hard-hitting, lyrical bangers. Correspondingly, the record has already amassed 3.2 million Spotify streams and counting, with the music video tracking an additional 2.5 million views. With Everybody Can’t Go slated for a January 26 release, Benny continues to build anticipation for what could be a trajectory defining-album.

  • Big Something Drops New Album Headspace Ahead Of 2 NY Shows

    Big Something, the North Carolina-based rock group, have unveiled their seventh studio album, Headspace, along with a nationwide tour spanning from December through May 2024 with stops in Buffalo and NYC along its extensive run. The album is a radiant 12-track exploration of alternative, jazz, funk, and metal influences.

    Headspace by Big Something

    Highlights on the album include tracks such as “The Mountain” and “Amanda Lynn”, which show the full, skilled arrangement of the band’s work, and their confidence as a unit. Many of the songs boast 6+ minute run times, and Big Something makes statements with their creative use of sound effects and rhythms.

    A standout track, “Kings of the Wild Frontier,” remembers Johnny Cash-like rhythms and spoken word, and takes a stance as a self-aware, fantastical story about the band itself. They even throw in a Bowie cover with “Moonage Daydream,” paying a punchy, energetic tribute to one of rock’s biggest idols. All in all, the album is a powerful, confident collection.

    Big Something
    Photo Credit: Rob Roane 

    Celebrating the release of the band’s new album, they will embark on a nationwide tour beginning in December. The tour spans over 40 cities, through the next six months. New York dates include April 12 at Iron Works in Buffalo, and May 10 at Brooklyn Made in NYC. 

    There are so many special things about this album for us. It’s both a requiem and a rebirth for us as a band. Honoring old friends, welcoming new ones and growing even closer together as musicians and brothers in the process.”

    Nick MacDaniels

    Big Something released their debut album in 2010, and have since crafted a personal blend of alternative rock, electronica, jazz, and metal. After the tragic passing of collaborator Paul Interdonato in 2017, Big Something finished Headspace in honor of him. The majority of the lyrics on Headspace were penned by Interdonato.

    Big Something will play shows at Iron Works in Buffalo, NY on April 12, and at Brooklyn Made in NYC on May 10. Tickets for the band’s upcoming tour are available here.

    UPCOMING TOUR DATES

    12/14 – Baltimore, MD – 8×10

    12/15 – Baltimore, MD – 8×10

    12/16 – Harrisburg, PA – XL Live

    12/22 – Hartford, CT – Infinity Live

    12/23 – Pembroke, MA – Soundcheck Studios

    12/29 – Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theatre

    12/30 – Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theatre

    12/31 – Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theatre

    1/26 – Asheville, NC – Salvage Station

    1/27 – Asheville, NC – Salvage Station

    2/1 – Roanoke, VA – 5 Points Music Sanctuary

    2/2 – Charlotte, NC – Visulite Theatre

    2/3 – Atlanta, GA – Variety Playhouse

    2/8 – Birmingham, AL – Zydeco

    2/9 – Knoxville, TN – Bijou Theatre

    2/15 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House

    2/16 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House

    2/17 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House

    3/5 – Durango, CO – Animas City Theatre

    3/6 – Telluride, CO – Sheridan Opera House

    3/7 – Crested Butte, CO – Public House

    3/8 – Steamboat Springs, CO – Schmiggity’s

    3/9  – Denver, CO  – Mission Ballroom

    3/12 – Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge

    3/13 – Boise, ID – The Olympic

    3/14 – Bend, OR – Volcanic Theatre Pub

    3/15 – Portland, OR – The Get Down

    3/16 – Seattle, WA – Tractor Tavern

    3/19 – Chico, CA – Lost on Main

    3/20 – Nevada City, CA – Crazy Horse Saloon

    3/21 – Sebastopol, CA – Hopmonk Tavern

    3/22 – San Francisco, CA – The Chapel

    3/23 – Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour

    3/24 – Phoenix, AZ – Crescent Ballroom

    4/10 – Columbus, OH – Summit Music Hall

    4/11 – Cleveland, OH – Mahall’s

    4/12 – Buffalo, NY – Iron Works

    4/13 – Ferndale, MI – The Loving Touch

    4/14 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Stache

    4/17 – Des Moines, IA – xBk Live

    4/18 – St. Louis, MO – Off Broadway

    4/19 – Covington, KY – Madison Theater

    4/20 – Chicago, IL – Lincoln Hall

    4/21 – Madison, WI – High Noon Saloon

    4/24 – Kansas City, MO – Knuckleheads

    4/25 – Oklahoma City, OK – Beer City Music Hall

    4/26 – Dallas, TX – Deep Ellum Art Co

    4/27 – Austin, TX – The Parish

    4/28 – Houston, TX – Last Concert Cafe

    5/1 – Fort Walton Beach, FL – Downtown Music Hall

    5/2 – Sanford, FL – Tuffy’s

    5/3 – Jacksonville, FL – Underbelly

    5/4 – St. Petersburg, FL – Floridian Social Club

    5/8 – Pittsburgh, PA – Thunderbird Cafe

    5/9 – Philadelphia, PA – The Foundry

    5/10 – New York, NY – Brooklyn Made

    5/11 – Washington, DC – The Atlantis

  • Hip Hop Supergroup Czarface Release New Album ‘Czartificial Intelligence’

    Hip hop purists can rejoice as Czarface, one the genre’s most creative outfits, returns with Czartifical Intelligence. This hip hop supergroup, consisting of Wu Tang Clan’s Inspectah Deck and Boston underground hip hop acts Esoteric and 7L, bring fans along on an abstract journey where cosmic hip hop, boom bap and comic book culture all intersect. Since their debut in 2013, the like-minded outfit has seen their “Czarface” centered music-verse expand beyond their wildest dreams.

    Czarface press photo
    Czarface. From left to right (Esoteric, 7L, Inpectah Deck). Photo by Billy X.

    In fact, collaborations with other colorful and imaginative MC’s the likes of MF Doom, Ghostface Killah, Roc Marciano, Conway the Machine, Mayhem Lauren, Method Man, Action Bronson, Vinnie Paz, Frankie Pulitzer and GZA have earned the group and series a cult-following. Chiefly, through intricate verses and captivating production, Czar and their guests — who accompany Czarface on missions and side-quests — have created a fruitful series of tapes with hundreds of merch drops including limited edition comics, apparel, action figures, art, shoes, and more featuring artwork illustrated by Lamour Supreme. Additionally, the group contributed the songs “Good Guys, Bad Guys” and “Today’s Special” to the soundtrack for the Marvel movie, Venom: Let There Be Carnage.

    Czarface album cover.
    The album cover for Czarface’s latest project “Czartificial Intelligence”

    Czartificial Intelligence

    The new album comes equipped with chaos, order and everything in between. It’s like a swirling vortex of cosmic carnage, but we bring it down to earth in places. We are, after all, in a new era. I hope what we made resonates with the people.

    – Esoteric

    The new album consists of 10- track and continues Czarface’s exploration of various themes along with similarly cutting-edge and technically proficient bars. Czartificial Intelligence features Logic, Kool Keith, Nems, Frankie Pulitzer and is set for release on December 1.

  • Benny The Butcher Snags Lil Wayne Feature With New Album On The Way

    Benny The Butcher has graced fans with a prolific new single from his forthcoming album, Everybody Can’t Go. Featuring the legendary Lil Wayne, “Big Dog” is the first new music from Benny since 2022’s Tana Talk 4 broke inside the Top 25 on the Billboard 200 album chart last year, and notably his first release for Def Jam Recordings, who he signed with after his contractual obligations to his cousin Westside Gunn’s Griselda imprint ended.

    Cover art for the new Benny The Butcher single "Big Dog."

    Co-produced by famed hip hop producer, Alchemist, “Big Dog” sees Benny The Butcher try his hand at another lyrical back-and-forth with a platinum selling rapper. His last effort, “Johnny P’s Caddy” — featuring J. Cole — peaked #14 Hot Rap Songs hit. Moreover, it was Benny’s first single to break inside the Hot 100. Furthermore, the Buffalo native was able to earn his first gold record and the first for any Griselda affiliate.

    “Big Dog”

    The new single is a change of pace for Benny The Butcher as the sped-up production departs from his usual laid-back, soulful, or sample heavy beats. What remains the same is his fervor, as he perfects his aggressive, braggadocios, grimy style. Backing him up is a looping classically inspired beat full of urgency. In like manner, Benny attacks the beat with the same intensity as if he was rapping about bricks on the table over a Daringer beat. Rather, Benny follows a formulaic song structure. While his subject matter remains close to home, the production and flow is a nice change of pace. Likewise, Lil Wayne continues to prove that he remains a rapper to be reckoned with, delivering a prolific verse in his own right in the duo’s first collaboration since “Timeless” from Benny’s 2020 album, Burden of Proof.

    Over the last year, Benny has spent time promoting his Black Soprano Family artists including Fuego Base and Rick Hyde. However, the first quarter of 2024 will see Benny release his new album, Everybody Can’t Go.

  • Dave East & Vado Release ‘Deniro & Pesci’ With New Album On The Way

    Two of Harlem‘s finest — Dave East and Vado — have graced the hip hop world with a new single. “Deniro & Pesci” is the latest record from 2/3 of hip hop collective “The Council” (which includes Dave East, Lloyd Banks and Vado). The ominously themed record is an ode to the lifestyles of mobsters James Conway and Tommy DeVito portrayed by Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci from one of hip hop’s most referenced films, Goodfellas.

    Dave East and Vado single cover art,

    In like manner, Vado and Dave East metaphorically reference the film and other famous mobsters. For instance, East begins the song with an introspective recounting of his rough upbringing that inspired his hustler mindset. Similarly to how Goodfellas begins with the telling of Henry Hill’s youth. Meanwhile, Vado juxtaposes Dave East, playing the role of the fully realized hustler. For his part, Vado’s verse is full of vivid imagery, whether it be intimate hustler tales, or stories of lavish expenditures. Together, the duo captures the evolvement from impressionable youth to “goodfella” as well the surrounding factors that play a role.

    Best Lyric

    With a vision like Bugsy, I’m Warren Beaty inspired, or like LL, standing at the crowd at Supreme Team party with murderers all around. Kingpins on stage, reppin’ the seven crowds. Analyzing they style, wishing that I was down.

    – Vado, “Deniro & Pesci”

    Album On The Way

    Meanwhile, “Deniro & Pesci” serves as a prelude to the duo’s forthcoming collaborative album set for release in the first quarter of 2024. Dave East’s last EP Fortune Favors the Bold was released in July, while Vado dropped V-Day 4 in May. This will be their second joint-project together following 2017’s It’s Harlem, hosted by DJ Kay Slay.

    V and I have been locked in for the longest, that’s family, it’s only right we team and up do something for the town. 

    -Dave East

    2/3 of The Council are back with more heat, and just wait until we drop the album  

    – Vado

  • AZ Releases ‘This Is Why’ In Anticipation of Latest Album

    With hip hop’s ever-changing landscape, it had been a decade since Brooklyn native AZ graced fans with an album. The reserved hip hop legend has maintained status as a result of his pen and classic album cuts. However, his long-teased sequel, Doe Or Die II, became one of 2021’s undeniable success stories and proved AZ’s potent hip hop poetry still had a place in the rap game.

    Since the release of Doe Or Die II, AZ has appeared on Westside Gunn’s “99 Avirex” Rick Ross’ “Vacheron,” Statik Selektah’s “Historic” and most recently on Tony Touch’s “Rampage 2.0” for Def Jam’s mixtape Documentary.

    AZ "This Is Why" single release cover

    Now AZ is back with the release of his single “This Is Why” in anticipation of his latest album, Truth Be Told, set for release on December 1. “This Is Why” interpolates a classic Slick Rick sample throughout, as the hip hop veteran takes on the role of the “been there, done that” MC. In light, he shouts out two Brooklyn legends — The Notorious B.I.G. and Mike Tyson — for serving as inspirations behind his success. With his effortless delivery and poignant rhymes, AZ embodies the grace and knowledge that comes with having survived some of New York City’s roughest eras.

    Album Details

    After contributing behind the boards on both Doe Or Die and Doe Or Die II, AZ and legendary producer Buckwild team up once again. The GRAMMY-nominated Buckwild handles all of the production on the new album. With his own crate of classic production, Buckwild will look to recreate the mafioso, final-boss themed production that the elder AZ has thrived on in his late career surge. In addition, the album will feature guest appearances from fellow New York rhymers Fat Joe and Pharoahe Munch, adding diversified flavor and point of views.

  • Hearing Aide: MVW and Valee Bring VALEEDATION To the Rap Game

    MVW and Valee have combined their idiosyncratic styles to bring about their latest avant-garde endeavor, VALEEDATION. The join-effort sees the duo make good on years of collaborations, with their like-minded approach bringing the best out of one another. The 14-track project — exclusively produced by MVW — offers a minimal yet expressive approach to hip hop. Moreover, in a boisterous genre, Valee and MVW present themselves through a colorful-yet subtle hue.

    Valee (left) & MVW (right) bring Valeedation to the game

    After all, Valee’s unconventional style and infectious energy, along with his distinctive lyrical delivery and unwavering commitment to artistic exploration has led to his own niche existence within a fickle music indutry. Meanwhile, MVW’s expertise in contemporary classical composition is showcased as he weaves together intricate musical arrangements. All in all, their unique blend of classical-trap music is part of the connection they’ve developed through their shared artistic vision.

    VALEEDATION Review

    “The music feels like scenes in a movie more than tracks on an album, highlighted by different lighting on a thematic, subtle vibe. There is this sense of installation.”
    – MVW on VALEEDATION

    Ultimately, VALEEDATION serves as another installment in the series that is MVW’s hip hop voyage. Notably going away from contemporary rap music’s in-your-face production style — where the beats usually outshine the artist — MVW has countered with a a more subtle, complementary style. Since embarking on his hip hop journey in the fall of 2021, the former classic composer has featured a myriad of rappers on his classical-trap beats. However, none have quite meshed with his musical ethos quite like the Chicago-bred Valee.

    Comparatively, his own musical exploits have seen the former Good Music signee depart from mainstream conventions. Rather, he immerses himself in innovative aesthetics that challenge the status quo. This avant-garde approach serves as a guiding beacon for MVW. In effect, VALEEDATION offers hip hop fans a unique lens through which to navigate uncharted territories in music.

    Another key point is the continuation of MVW and Valee’s symbiotic musical relationship. With this latest effort serving as the final stamp of approval in MVW’s hip hop passport. Through 14 unique records, the duo charter through a wave of unexplored, genre-bending possibilities. Record like “Tailor Swift” and “Could Be” offer an alternative, unsaturated production style, which Valee does his best to command. All the same, songs like “Pistachio” and “Yo Yo” see the duo share the stage between MVW’s spacey prodcutions and Valee’s colorful metaphors and one-liners. Overall, the album follows a theme of internal dichotomy between conventional ear-catching tunes versus unconventional beats and flows that challenges the microwave music consumption of today.