[Interview] RH First Look: JD Era
While the world moves faster than ever, and patience is a rare attribute, Toronto emcee JD Era is bracing himself for the long haul. JD comes from Toronto's independent Hip Hop community, earning stripes and respect in the battle scene while dropping gems since 2008, a few featuring his fellow Toronto native, Drake. While he collaborated with Drake, JD didn't seek to ride any coattails, nor use Drake's star to build his own. He has continued that theme since inking a deal with Raekwon, and releasing the new mixtape, No Handouts. It this old-fashioned attitude that has JD Era poised for continued success and a strong member of Hip Hop's new class. We get to know JD a little better in our latest First Look.
[Interview] RH First Look: Black EL X Durkin
Black EL X Durkin take a conservative approach to their music. The Boston-based duo is not conservative in the sense that they produce formulaic tracks that cater to likes of pop radio stations. They’re far from that, producing a unique selection of cuts with witty lyricism and dynamic production. Black EL X Durkin are conservative in that they would rather put out a few tracks that you’ll really like instead of throwing a 20-something track tape at listeners and hoping something sticks.
Their condensed catalog consists of two mixtapes, 2010’s Color Commentary and this year’s The Collage EP, as well as a handful of other tracks. These guys are worth paying attention to and we know what to expect from them, “More singles…More videos. More parties. More shows. Global takeover. Profit.”
Check out RubyHornet’s First Look with Black EL X Durkin.
The Pro Letarians: "HEAVY"
It's been a minute since we've heard anything from The Pro Letarians. They're back with a standalone single that features an edgy, J.O.-supplied backdrop filled with electric guitar and synth. Once again, Jupiter Jim brings the brag and uses plenty of double entendres. Their new album, Not All of Me Shall Die, comes out this fall. Check the track out below.
Talib Kweli: "Push Thru ft. Kendrick Lamar & Curren$y"
An unfinished version of this track hit the web last year. Now we've got the real deal as Kweli reaches out to two of the most prolific emcees out there to join him on this track. "Push Thru" is off of Kweli's upcoming Prisoner of Conscious out in October on Blacksmith/EMI.
†??J Diamond: "$KYE GIROUX"
It's been a minute since we've heard from Tahj but he's back with "$KYE GIROUX" to remind us that he's still here. This is another cut from his Jesus Give Me Peace project which doesn't yet have a date. I texted †??J asking what was behind the name of the track. I found out that Skye is a person, the kind we could use more of in this world. Be kind and good things will come your way. Maybe you'll get your own track...Check out the track below.
Kenlo Key: "Live Backwards ft. Griffen & Jamal Mar"
Kenlo's back and he's enlisted Stay Humble/FaceMob's Griffen and fellow IntaVention emcee Jamal Mar (of Good Vocation). This is the first off of his forthcoming project, The Well Known Stranger. Production was handled by September 6th. Peep the track below.
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis: "Same Love ft. Mary Lambert"
Macklemore shows his support by waving the rainbow flag. This track seems even more relevant given Frank Ocean's recent coming out. With his growing popularity, it's nice to see Macklemore using his influence for good. "Same Love" is off of Macklemore's upcoming album, The Heist, which is due out October 9th. Check out the track and the statement Macklemore issued about the song below. And be sure to check out our recent interview with the Seattle-based duo here.
[Video] Black EL x Durkin: "DOJA"
The Boston-based duo delivers some black and white visuals for their latest single. The video was done by Ian Steinbach of Decriminals and he's given us appropriate footage for a track with a spaced-out feel. Peep the video below.