Navarro Blends Worlds On Modern Mexican Art: Radio Sondido
"I done paid my dues and have some changed left."
Navarro, known well throughout Chicago's underground Hip Hop scene as Scheme, returned in April of 2018 with a new album centered fiercely on identity and story-telling. The LP, Modern Mexican Art: Radio Sondido, plays out like a documentary set in Chicago's Mexican neighborhood and narrated by the polished emcee.
The album is timely for many reasons. As Donald Trump and his administration continue to harm the immigrant community (and all communities of color), Navarro's perspective as a first generation American who fell in love with Hip Hop is welcomed and needed. Since his last proper LP, Navarro has changed his name, created a successful after school program and also has a growing daughter. Those kind of life changes will force anyone to really examine their life and decide what is most important. As an emcee with over a decade of experience, Navarro has had to clearly define his priorities as well as how he fits into the current climate of commercial music.
Duality is an inherent part of the immigrant experience, and Modern Mexican Art succeeds the most when that duality is at the forefront. The album's first track, "Sin Singre En Las Venas" is a perfect example of the recipe as Navarro raps in both Spanish and English over hard drums provided by long-time collaborator, Nascent. The track also welcomes listeners into Navarro's world, using old audio about Mexican immigrants and the ways in which they have used music for escape, empowerment, and action.
Action is the subject of the album's second track, "Feel The Earth Move", another track with Navarro in his bag, clearly displaying his lyrical skills. Tracks like "The Jordan Era" and "City Never Sleeps" featuring GLC bring in the Chicago perspective and add some lightness to the album. "Timeless", produced by Panik is another favorite on the LP, with Navarro recounting his experiences as an emcee and the frustrations with hitting a ceiling as far as recognition and accolades in the first verse. The second verse, he adopts the perspective of greed and motivation, showing the search for such accolades and success as a relationship and actor in the frustration.
The album ends with "Final Peace" a dedication to Hip Hop culture, something that gave him a voice when he thought he had none. I feel like this is the track in which Navarro brings everything together - his current family needs, his place in music, and a love for Hip Hop above fame. It's a sentiment that's not popular, but needed.
Late Pass - Lorde Fredd33 emerges with NORF: The Legend of Hotboy Ronald
"Late Pass" was a popular phrase in the earlier days of blogging. See, the key was getting posts up quickly, and if possible, being the first to do so. So, when writers would be even slightly late on posting a song, or album, or video, it was common that the writer would request a "late pass". Anddddd, you were just expected to be up on all the hot new joints.
Anyway - I've been way behind on new music and just writing in general, and I shall be requesting (and hopefully acquiring) several late passes this summer. Let's start with NORF: The Legend of HBR by Milwaukee's Lorde Fred33. This album was released May 1st, making me about 3 weeks behind. I'd now like to take a minute to also call out WebsterX for not letting me know this was out until... F*$KING MONDAY. Damn, Web, I thought we were boys... I feel extra stupid and late cause I've known about Lorde Fred33 for like 2-3 years now, and just never spent the time to fully dig into his music.
NORF: The Legend Hotboy Ronald is an album that feels centered in self-determination. That theme pops up early and often, and is perhaps best showcased on the second track, "Child Support (Need A Lick)". Fredd33 raps, "LLC cost $130, ain't shit to wake up early, get on the internet, craigslist, run the check," before pointing out the large DIY video library of youtube, and free cost of tuition to youtube university. What makes the song even stronger, and more representative of the LP's message, is the beautiful shift in the production that occurs just 30 seconds later.
After a few listens through the album, it seems that the core of the LP is a "I'm here to win, so I'm not here to play" philosophy, immersed in stories of day to day life in Milwaukee, one in which Fredd33 "grew up playing violins, around sirens and violence, not a lot of friends, at least I got fam though."
Fredd33's fam, the NAN Crew, comes through for him in a big way on NORF. WebsterX shines on "NBN", managing to reference Danica Patrick, Larry Bird, and Mike Jones all in the same verse. That song also stands out because of the way in which Lorde Fredd33 melds his style to match Web a bit in his cadence-heavy, slightly singing delivery. Then at the same time, Web chooses more straight forward bars, also recognizing his own change in creative spaces. It's a trip... The song also relays a clear message that Fred33's bad side is not a good place to be.
NAN's in-house producer, the incredibly talented Q The Sun, is the lone producer on 14 of the album's 15 tracks. "Goals" is the only exception, which was co-produced by Markayla (a student in Lorde Fred33 and Q The Sun's music program with Milwaukee Public Schools).
Fredd33's son also is a major part of the LP - both directly and indirectly. His son serves as the battery pack for Fredd33's sense of urgency and catalyst on many of the album cuts. He also is heard directly on "Free (Type Shit)".
I'd be remiss if I did not mention how clever and funny this project is at times. I feel I painted almost too much of a gloomy or serious picture. There is a serious tone on much the album, but also lighter moments. "Possum Play" is one of my favorite songs, and at its core, it is a crash course on spelling Lorde Fred33's name right (delivered with a Busta Rhymes tribute).
Hit play below.
https://soundcloud.com/lordefredd33/sets/norf
[Review] Chicago Open Air 2017 descends on Toyota Park
With a lineup that included Kiss, Rob Zombie, Megadeth, Ozzy Osbourne, Korn and the mythical group Anthrax, this year’s Chicago Open Air brought together the biggest names in hard rock and heavy metal. On its first edition, which was celebrated last year, it was the only 2016 event that hosted a live show of Rammstein in the US, and following a triumphant first round, it was ready for a second chance. Taking place in Toyota Park, and offering gourmet food as well as craft beer, the festival’s second edition started on Friday 14 July and ended on Sunday 16 July, leaving the audience satisfied.
Once of the most celebrated concerts of the event was that of Anthrax, which took place on Friday and was welcomed by the crowd with great excitement. Formed in 1981 in New York by bassist Dan Lilker and guitarist Scott Ian, Anthrax was at the heart of the thrash scene during the 80s and included as one of the Big Four along with Slayer, Megadeth and Metallica (the first two also played at Open Air this year). Having sold close to 10 million records since the 90s, the band released a live album in 2017. Defined by Rolling Stone magazine as one the few bands that reshaped heavy metal in the 80s, the audience was eager to see Anthrax on stage one more time as it delivered an impeccable show. After saying "Thank you for having us back!", Scott Ian started playing one of their most famous tunes, "Caught in a Mosh." Born in 1963, this famous rhythm guitarist is the only founding member of Anthrax who has stayed in the band to this day and is also in charge of all the album lyrics. He has been involved in several other projects following his success with the metal group, including hosting a TV show, writing special issues for DC comics and even taking part in WSOP events, showing that one can succeed in more than one passion and be good at it. And so, living up to the expectations, multifaceted Scott Ian and Joey Belladonna delivered a great 45-minute concert.
Less than hour later, Megadeth took the stage, although perhaps their overall performance was not as memorable as that of Anthrax. In any case, fans of one of the Big Four seemed satisfied listening to tunes like "Sweating Bullets" or the classic "Hangar 18". The day closed with Rob Zombie and KISS, the latter being as fun as it always is. Included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, KISS is as emblematic as a band can be, and its members have often appeared in films — most recently in the blockbuster American comedy Why Him? — and been featured in other aspects of popular culture.
Photographer: Brett Bergen
Godsmack’s Sully Erna, Robbie Merrill, Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin played before a massive audience (perhaps the largest one of the festival at that point), and Korn closed the night on Saturday, making its second appearance at this festival, although now as the central band on the main stage. They delivered an energetic and fresh concert, paying tribute to nu metal, yet daring to introduce other rhythms. Slayer and Ozzy Osbourne — who has also been involved in other enterprises like the famous MTV reality show The Osbournes — played their parts on Sunday, at the end of the successful, and in many ways nostalgic, weekend of Open Air Chicago. We should expect to see a third edition of this festival next year, now that it has secured itself a place among the main events taking place in Chicago during the summer.
Vic Mensa's debut album The Autobiography available for Pre Order
Vic Mensa announced the release date and title of his debut album, The Autobiography. Releasing on July 28, Mensa’s highly anticipated debut will give the Chicago rapper his first major introduction into the music world. Pre Order The Autobiography here on Apple Music.
From his latest projects like the There’s A lot Going On EP. To his most recent work in what he calls a capsule of music in The Manuscript, this is a whole new Mensa.
Mensa has matured in front of our eyes and through his music over the years. Tacking heavy issues from the Laquan McDonald shooting, Flint water crisis, self-harm and drug addiction Mensa has stated The Autobiography will be his most personal yet.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/885298384080261120
Mensa took to Twitter to announce The Autobiography to fans. Using screenshots of different locations. Mensa had fans post a photo of themselves for a chance to listen to his album.
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/884811399179886592
Hearing Mensa’s dark and serious tone packed with gut punching lyrics in There’s A lot Going On and The Manuscript, July 28 can’t come soon enough.
If you haven’t already check out Mensa’s recent release of the music video for “OMG”.“OMG” was a Tidal exclusive, now streaming everywhere you can check out Mensa’s release from The Manuscript.
The Pharrell produced track features Pusha T and has guest appearances from Pusha T, Ethan Cutkosky, Joey Purp and Towkio.
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Check out these 5 Chicago artists at Lollapalooza. Whitney, Noname, Kweku Collins, The O'My's and Chance The Rapper
Let’s dive into the incredible lineup at this year’s Lollapalooza. Chicago artists came to represent at one of the largest music festivals in the world. The talent to tough but their Chicago breed artist standout in a big way. Below let’s visit five artists that call Chicago their home that you absolutely can’t miss at this year’s Lollapalooza!
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Whitney
Indie-rock band Whitney will represent the Chicago indie scene well. The young band will have the perfect match of blended tunes and heart wrenching lyrics. Their debut album Light Upon the Lake is one of the best pieces of work coming out from Chicago in the past few years. Seeing them rock the stage at Lollapalooza will be a great experience for the young band. It definitely won’t be the last time on the Lollapalooza stage.
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Noname
After an incredible year of appearances at Saturday Night Live, Bronzeville native Noname will be making her Lollapalooza debut. The spoken word artist made the past year her own with her soulful and honest approach to storytelling that we hear in her latest protect, Telefone.
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Kweku Collins
Closed Sessions rapper Kweku Collins will bring his poetry and melodic rap sound to life at Lollapalooza. Making his Lollapalooza debut, the Evanston (close enough) native will represent the young label well. He will be rubbing shoulders with some heavyweight rapper while making a bold appearance at Lollapalooza in his own right.
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The O’ My’s
Rock meets soul back again when the O’ My’s return at Lollapalooza. Showing early support in their career to the likes of Chance The Rapper, the O’ My’s will receive a long overdue warm welcome. Seeing Maceo Haymes taking the stage with Nick Hennessey, Boyang Matsapola, Baron Golden, Erick Mateo will bring the longtime Chicago favorites to new heights. If you haven’t already do yourself a favor and check out their EP, Keeping The Faith.
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Chance The Rapper
This one goes without saying. If you’re from Chicago, you have to come through and support Chicago’s biggest name in the business. Chance The Rapper just a few short years ago performed at the smaller BMI stage. This year, Chance The Rapper will headline August 5 on the main stage expecting his biggest crowd to date.
After a number of incredible accolades for the young 24-year-old artist, Chance The Rapper will bring it all home at Lollapalooza. After his three well deserved Grammy wins, donating over 1 million dollars to the Chicago Public School District and widely praised third released mixtape Coloring Book, Chance’s set will be one to remember for years to come.
4-Day Passes and single day passes are currently sold-out, VIP passes are now at Lollapalooza.com.
[Review] Jay Z's 4:44 album is refreshing and makes your mind wander and reflect
I owe Jay Z an apology. Since Watch The Throne, I've said "Jay doesn't need to rap anymore." "He's too rich, now." "Jay Z' is above this world of hip-hop to connect with his core audience." The 4:44 album is proof that I was dead wrong. It also proves Jay Z can do anything and he should never be questioned or doubted ever in the world of hip-hop. 4:44 is Jay Z's "Back To The Future II album". It's like the album is recorded in an alternate time warp between 1999-2001. Much like Marty when he had to go to the "other 1985" to make things right for the future of his existence in others. Big Homey Jay has returned and the game is being redirected.
Tracks like "Kill Jay Z", "4:44" and "Smile", give the most revealing Jay ever. He really gives us real clips on his personal life. His struggles of being a married man, a father and a softer individual with feelings that deals with emotions. Something we rarely got over the last 2 decades. He touches on every possible instance that ever made the media and the watching and talking streets. Kanye, Solange, Beyonce, Un and much more. It's refreshing and makes your mind wander and reflect on the life you've had a privilege to watch all this time.
Then you have joints like "Family Feud", "Bam" and "The Story of O.J". These joints put in perspective who really getting this money and moving right out here. Nobody can ever out rap Jay Z when it's time for show and tell. From the tone to the bar itself. If Jay Z says he's got it. You believe it. Blue and the twins have an 8 million dollar painting to cash in right now. Everybody holding money to their ear still making collect calls to Hov and he's not taking collect calls.
"Moonlight" "Caught Their Eye" attacks the industry and everything messed up in it. From the flows to the record deals, Prince and more. It's just that standard "Big Homey Talk" that Hov has been giving out for years.
Is 4:44 the best Jay Z album? You can honestly argue it. This album is 180 growth from Reasonable Doubt. This is The Dynasty content with more detail. This is everything we thought Magna Carta Holy Grail would be. Not to mention Jay Z is still rapping at a high level. "Shinning" and other moments over the last 4 years are easily forgettable after the first 4 tracks on this album. It will honestly be many Jay fans and rightfully so. Chances are if you're a day 1 Jay z fan in real time. [Meaning you bought Reasonable Doubt by at least 1998] You're between 32-38 or older. Which means you and Jay will have an adult conversation about the life he's lived. A life like none other. Take a seat and chill with ya mans and catch up with him. What you doing at 4:44 anyway?
The Story of O.J.
Freddie Gibbs You Only Live 2wice concert at the Metro Chicago
Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs had his share of ups and downs throughout his life, yet he shakes it off like it's nothing. When Gibbs took the stage the crowd went absolutely crazy. Welcoming him home with a lot of love is what fueled Gangsta Gibbs. He seemed to be in good spirits during his show at the Metro Thursday night and clearly enjoying being back in the rap game. Gibbs performed cuts from his latest album, You Only Live 2wice, including "20 Karat Jesus." He also blazed through hits from his previous records ESGN and Shadow of a Doubt. Relive the night with our photo gallery below.
Words by Ashley Perez
Freddie Gibbs Photos by: Kevin Baker
Freddie Gibbs Video shot by: Kevin Baker. Chopped by Lateef Idris
Such a dope show @FreddieGibbs You Only Live 2wice tour. Get yall tickets! 🎥 #imkevinbaker @_chicagomusic_ #YOL2 #ESGN #KaneSeason #chicago pic.twitter.com/JmAao3SHXr
— ImKevinBaker.com (@imkevinbaker) July 7, 2017
Review: Kevin Ross's Album Is Truly An Awakening
In a time where many are convinced "young people don't know music" and all they want to do is turn up and sing about getting a girl back to the crib to hit, Kevin Ross is giving you an inspiring and musical alternative. That alternative is with his album, The Awakening.
The Awakening is a genre-less timeless musical effort that is far beyond Kevin's years. You feel that classic R&B like you were listening to an R. Kelly or Boyz II Men album. Then you can hear that unique Michael Jackson influence and then you can even feel inspirational gospel, soulful rock and elements of bands like "Toto" in it. Kevin Ross may make you feel all this and much more, but this is a project that has it's on land and stands firm on its own. You can tell the influences run deep, but he's crafted something tailor made to his voice and journey.
The Awakening is a call to be great, be inspired and a sincere love of music. The original "Be Great" with Chaz French and the remix with BJ The Chicago has two different feels with the same inspirational message. Do you want to be great? That is the question being asked and Kevin Ross delivers in great fashion alongside the accompanied features. Greatness could also be a running theme for the album. Lecrae lends a dope and Pac inspired verse on "Look Up". The spiritual and inspirational song that encourages you to look up to God when you are need of someone to get you through is not alone on this album. "Genesis 1 and 2", "Her Hymn" "Pick You Up"and "New Man" all compliment this album well.
"Long Song Away" is tearing up charts across the country and is a very smooth track for any music lover. My favorite song on the album is "Don't Go". It gives me the feeling of Michael Jackson's "Butterflies". I know I'm putting it in big shoes, but it's truly a first listen and instantly love song.
Kevin Ross is not trying to save R&B music. The Awakening is an album that's meant to inspire the masses. It's a soundtrack to a young man and his journey in this music industry and his quest to be great. You can listen to this album and be inspired and in a better spirit. That's not something you're going to get from just any album. Definitely get your ears on The Awakening.
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