Cinematic Bass Duo Koven Unveil Their Anticipated EP "Higher Ground (Part 1)" on Monstercat
Award-winning cinematic bass duo Koven have just revealed the final chapter to their anticipated ‘Higher Ground (Part 1)’ EP, arriving with the final single and festival set opener “Industrial Strain,” a high-energy drum & bass track with a relevant message.
Award-winning cinematic bass duo Koven have just revealed the final chapter to their anticipated ‘Higher Ground (Part 1)’ EP, arriving with the final single and festival set opener “Industrial Strain,” a high-energy drum & bass track with a relevant message. Having been a staple on the touring circuit this summer, across more than 35 dates ranging from festivals such as Glastonbury, Tomorrowland, and EDC Las Vegas, it epitomizes why the beloved duo have become a mainstage addition globally. Following singles “Take it Away,” “Lions” and “All We Needed,” it’s an impressive offering to a diverse collection of records, each paying homage to Koven’s signature emotive penmanship.
Koven share, “‘Higher Ground’ has been a really fun and unique experience for us. Historically all of our writing happens remotely but this time around, the music was written over a few days at a writing retreat. This also presented opportunities like working with Max's old music theory teacher, Simon Dobson, who helped us with all the string arrangements alongside the Parallax Orchestra. That wouldn't have happened if we didn't accidentally bump into him whilst on the writing retreat. Since the album [‘Butterfly Effect’], we set ourselves a new mantra of 'leveling up' and being the best version of ourselves, and that's the meaning behind 'Higher Ground'. We hope you enjoy ‘Part 1’ and we have even more to show you on ‘Part 2.’”
Returning once more under the Monstercat banner, a figurative home for Koven where they released both their ‘Butterfly Effect’ and ‘Butterfly Effect (Deluxe)’ LPs, they continue to explore a range of dance music genres in their robust compositions. Already securing support from tastemakers including UKF and BBC Radio 1, their ‘Higher Ground (Part 1)’ EP ushers in a new chapter set to redefine the pair. “Industrial Strain” incorporates what Koven are best known for; drum & bass with empathic emotion. The precision and depth of Max’s production merged with Katie’s earnest songwriting and vocals is perfectly embodied through “Industrial Strain,” a track which has marked itself with its epicness by the crowd’s reaction on stage to tens of thousands at Belgium’s Rampage Festival.
Having spent the lockdown period further sharpening their craft, as well as showing the breadth of their creativity through their virtual reality space Another Home, Koven are proving to be artists in the truest contemporary sense. And now ‘Higher Ground (Part 1)’ is complete as dancefloors have returned around the world, leaving fans eager for more to come in ‘Part 2’.
Listen to “Higher Ground (Part 1)” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Koven on their social media.
Jay Worthy and Harry Fraud Release Their New Album "You Take The Credit, We'll Take The Check"
@jayworthy142 and @HarryFraud have a long-standing collaborative history, and now they are back with their latest re-formation with “You Take The Credit, We’ll Take The Check”. Listen to this DOPE new album now.
Jay Worthy and Harry Fraud have a long-standing collaborative history. Even as established in the industry as they both are, a lot has transpired since the last time they connected, Eat When You’re Hungry, Sleep When You’re Tired (2020), and there’s little debating that both artists have experienced a major level up in between.
Both Jay and Harry have seen their profiles raised exponentially. Jay Worthy has since signed with Griselda Records, appeared on Isaiah Rashad’s The House Is Burning (“True Story”), released a new project with LNDN DRGS (Burnout 4) and collaborated with Larry June on the breakout 2 P’z In A Pod.
Harry Fraud has been equally as busy. Since Eat When You’re Hungry, Harry has produced chart-topping projects for Curren$y (The OutRunners), Dave East (Hoffa), Lil Peep (High Fashion), Benny The Butcher (The Plugs I Met 2), Jim Jones (The Fraud Department) and French Montana (Montega).
Now, Jay and Harry are back with their latest re-formation with “You Take The Credit, We’ll Take The Check”, which is now available at all DSP’s.
“We did this album in the Hamptons on some real player shit” Jay Worthy recalls. “We wilded out, ate good, swam and rode bikes. It was a beautiful experience to say the least.”
“This album is the second chapter in me and Worthy’s musical story. The last project was the appetizer and this is the main course” Harry Fraud explains. “We’ve refined the sound this time around and zeroed in on the lavish textures that compliment Jay’s manual full of game told through his raps. All the way down to the cover art, which is a view from inside the diner off the last album’s cover. The title is a sentiment we both share, f*ck the credit, give us the bread, because at the end of the day you can’t pay your bills with clout.”
Produced entirely by Harry Fraud, “You Take The Credit, We’ll Take The Check” features appearances from Larry June, Curren$y, Conway The Machine, Big Body Bes, Kamaiyah, BandGang Lonnie Bands, MadeinTYO & A$AP Twelvyy.
Listen to “You Take The Credit, We’ll Take The Check” right now, stream it on your preferred music service, and connect with Jay Worthy and Harry Fraud on their social media.
Stream and Share “You Take The Credit, We’ll Take The Check”
Philly Post Hardcore Quintet Amora Announce Their "Cutting Teeth" EP, Due Out on August 12th
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based post-hardcore quintet Amora are set to release their “Cutting Teeth” EP on August 12th via Fred Mascherino's Heading East Records.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based post-hardcore quintet Amora are set to release their Cutting Teeth EP on August 12 via Fred Mascherino's Heading East Records.
The EP is the result of a songwriting session that found the band locking themselves in a cabin in order to dig deeper and write on a more grandiose scale than they ever had previously. Produced by Fred Mascherino, a musician who has cut his teeth in Breaking Pangaea, Taking Back Sunday, Terrible Things, The Color Fred and more, the effort offers a look at Amora's cold and erratic side (songs such as “Stay Pony, Golden Boy” and “Shutter”), and delivering hard-hitting instrumentals and vocals that walk the line of melody and ferocity.
"I love the way Amora combines different styles into their brand of hardcore," Mascherino says. "They had a song where they wrote this busy bassline and their guitarist Tristan told me it was inspired by Anti-Flag.
"Another song, 'Shutter,' has four different members of the band singing lead vocals on it," he adds. "I just love how they aren't worried about anything other than getting their vision for the song across. They make super eclectic, but well though-out, hardcore songs."
Melodic House Producer Fløa Unveils His Six-Track EP "Anna", Featuring Norwegian Label Veteran Astroleaf on Monstercat
Following a string of fan-favourite releases on @Monstercat, rising deep and melodic house artist @Fløamusic has revealed his impressive EP ‘Anna’, featuring multi-faceted singer, songwriter, and producer, @Astroleaf.
Following a string of fan-favourite releases on Monstercat, rising deep and melodic house artist Fløa has revealed his impressive EP ‘Anna’, featuring multi-faceted singer, songwriter, and producer, Astroleaf. The six-track package includes the beautifully-haunting title track, which the duo collaborated on. Astroleaf gathered inspiration for the lyrics from the TV show Arcane, during a scene in which mayhem ensues when a character tries to help their friends, but ends up causing nothing short of heartbreak. Also featured on the package are new tracks “Journey” and “Watch When I’m Near”, plus three extended mixes that champion Fløa’s moody undertones and textural melodies.
Fløa shares, “This EP is a tribute to the people who have appeared in my life, in particular my girlfriend. In life, everything can collapse, but one day you realize that this journey will lead you to the right place.”
Astroleaf adds, “The title song “Anna” tells a story of a person who has done something terrible and unforgivable that was caused by accident. The agony and uncertainty of not knowing if they will ever be forgiven for their actions causes cracks in their sanity, while having to live with the thought of "what if'' their whole life.”
Listen to “Anna” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Fløa on his social media.
Stream "January 22", the Debut Album by Vancouver Rock/Alternative Band Whitbeck
Vancouver-based rock/alternative band Whitbeck, led by award-winning guitarist, vocalist and producer Greg Whitbeck, have released their debut album "January 22".
Vancouver-based rock/alternative band Whitbeck, led by award-winning guitarist, vocalist and producer Greg Whitbeck, have released their debut album "January 22". Rock fans can expect dense guitars and rousing arrangements grounded by driving rhythms. Whitbeck live features mega talents, guitarist Sean Dillon, and former Sick Logic rhythm section Mario Loubert and Shiraz Mohammed.
"January 22 is our 1st full length album & also the 3rd single & video from the record. The song itself is about the paradox of hope & renewal vs defeat & resignation against a backdrop of the beautiful, shining port city of Vancouver, Canada. Mixed & produced later, it was written & recorded in the cabin of my 27’ Albin Vega sailboat I lived on at the time and all the vocal & guitar tracks are the originals from those Shelter Island Sessions."
Lead single and album opener "West Coast Love Song" carries a profound meaning as it explores the tragedy of the Canadian residential school system, more than 150,000 children from hundreds of indigenous communities across Canada were forcibly taken from their parents by the government. The song is dedicated to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls of Canada.
"West Coast Love Song is one of the darkest songs I’ve ever written, & one thing I’ve written about plenty is the blackness. It features the incredible Susana Williams’ vocals as well as her appearance in the video & an incredible cameo of her walking out of the ocean onto the beach outside her home of Sunshine Coast, Canada. Far from a love song, it has morphed from a lament of loss & sorrow in the deep green of west coast cedar shadows & pacific waves gloaming to a sad, yet eerie & perhaps even violent yarn about a chilling demise. Though not affiliated, we dedicate it to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls of Canada." - Greg Whitbeck
"January 22" pays musical homage and takes influence from 90's Alternative/Grunge, classic Rock n' Roll and modern Indie Rock, realizing its own cohesive signature sound. Greg Whitbeck's emotionally charged vocals and down-to-Earth lyricism is backed by dynamic guitar arrangements and layered, memorable melodies. Although some of the songs undoubtedly explore dark territory, the underlying energy throughout is resilience and hope.
Sad Folk Singer-Songwriter The Last Optimist Releases His New EP "This Moment Is Gone"
Championing a heart-on-the-sleeve subgenre known as 'Sad Folk', singer-songwriter, poet and activist The Last Optimist embraces openness and mental health awareness on his new EP "This Moment Is Gone".
Championing a heart-on-the-sleeve subgenre known as 'Sad Folk', singer-songwriter, poet and activist The Last Optimist embraces openness and mental health awareness on his new EP "This Moment Is Gone", out now on streaming platforms. With millions of people across the world struggling with serious mental health challenges, this new release is all the more timely and relevant. The Last Optimist's ultimate mission is to 'de-stigmatize mental health, to build community, and to pull behavioral health out of the darkness and into the light.'
About his musical message of resilience, project founded Markus Belanger says "My goal with ‘let go of this breath’ is to build empathetic allies for the millions of people who struggle to stay afloat with their mental health each day. The song begins with the flirtation of a new relationship, which is interrupted by a panic attack, and which turns into a courageous struggle that finally resolves with peaceful resilience. Listener beware, this song evokes the whole ride."
“We are in a tough moment as more than a quarter of us are facing off with extreme sadness, anxiousness, panic, and all the accompanying struggles that throw us in to cold dark water and crash waves overhead. I perform this music to lift people up, to let them know that they are not alone, and to build empathic allies all around. Every little moment of peace helps. Every little connection makes us more resilient. Every kind word is sunshine on a cheek. Sometimes we rage, sometimes we cry quiet and vulnerable, sometimes we stand bold and courageous, sometimes we love with abandon. Come join us and immerse yourself in both the inky black water and light that comes with the dawn.”
Run the Jewels and Brooklyn Brewery's New Craft Beer Collaboration Launches
@RunJewels, the prolific duo of Killer Mike and EL-P, and renowned craft beer stalwarts Brooklyn Brewery, who helped pioneer the American craft beer revolution, have launched their new collaborative brew - a double pilsner, dubbed 36” Chain.
Run The Jewels, the prolific duo of Killer Mike and EL-P, and renowned craft beer stalwarts Brooklyn Brewery, who helped pioneer the American craft beer revolution, launch their new collaborative brew - a double pilsner, dubbed 36” Chain. This limited edition release is rolling out throughout NYC, and will be available at the group’s landmark run of five live concerts at MSG in August, as well as via BaRTJ, the group’s own newly launched direct-to-consumer ordering service.
Featuring striking artwork created by label design contest winner Matt C. Harvey, 36” Chain is a satisfyingly snappy double pilsner made with fonio, an ancient West African grain renowned for its resilience and unique flavor. It has golden notes of lychee with light honey, an assertively crisp finish, and pairs well with many of Run the Jewels’ favorite foods and activities: bagels, lemon pepper wings, cheesy grits, burgers and fries, and, of course, loud music. Special 36” Chain limited edition merchandise, including hats and pint glasses will also be available for sale, starting August 8th.
“Run The Jewels is out there with an edge and a message, so we definitely didn't want to just phone this one in,” explains Brooklyn Brewery’s James Beard Award-winning brewmaster Garrett Oliver. “When I met with the band, I joked that I wanted to make a "tactical pilsner" - a beer that "tastes like beer", but has some refreshing bite and fruitiness that comes from the use of fonio. And it's a little bit strong because nothing RTJ does is light!”
In keeping with Run The Jewels’ commitment to putting money back into the communities where their beers are made, a portion of proceeds from the sale of 36” Chain will be donated to the Red Hook Art Project, (R.H.A.P). The organization’s mission is “rooted in the conviction that creative self-expression is a transformative experience that enriches individuals and communities,” and as such they work to provide a space where young people feel safe and supported as they develop their voices through artistic projects and activities.
Brooklyn native EL-P states, “On our unexpected journey into the craft of brewing, we’ve been fortunate to work with an amazing community of artists & enthusiasts from all over the world, and we couldn’t be more excited about our new collaboration with the good people at Brooklyn Brewery. From the moment we talked to them, it was clear that they truly care about what they are doing and they really get where we are coming from. This one is going to be special.”
DJ/Producer The GOAT Makes His Most Expansive Creative Statement Yet With "The Details Are Vague" Album
One of Vancouver's finest electronic music exports, trending DJ and producer The GOAT has prepared his most expansive creative statement yet with new album "The Details Are Vague", out now via Groundwerk Recordings.
One of Vancouver's finest electronic music exports, trending DJ and producer The GOAT has prepared his most expansive creative statement yet with new album "The Details Are Vague", out now via Groundwerk Recordings. The GOAT is the musical alias of Chris Marcinikiewicz, whose uniquely potent signature sound is best described as 'peak-time, after-hours techno steeped in minimalism and dark, abstract textures'. Undeniably hard-hitting and steeped with shadowy fire, Marcinikiewicz masterfully fuses Techno, Industrial and Ambient sounds to create a commanding wall of sound.
The GOAT is no stranger to the music scene. He has been performing electronic music throughout Western Canada since the early 2000's, and shared the stage with artists like Chris Liebing, Layton Giordani, D-Unity, Ramon Tapia, Kevin Saunderson, Dave Angel, and Claude Young.
His first release as The GOAT (2016's "Flout" EP) entered Beatport’s Top 100 Techno Releases chart, and climbed to the top 10 on the Top 100 Minimal Releases. He followed this release with 8 singles, 3 EP's, and now the new full-length album "The Details Are Vague".
“This music on The Details Are Vague didn’t come from an easy place. These last few years were very emotionally taxing and there was a lot of uncertainty with it. As we all went through it, I felt like I wanted to tap into that. I wanted the unease of this past year to live inside the music. So you’ll hear a lot of depth to the design.
A lot of techno draws from dystopian imagery and art concepts and things. I just wanted it to sound human. Nothing about it is pretty. And a lot of it will have frailty to it. It reflects how delicate we are as humans in life. But also how fickle people can be towards each other. ” - Chris Marcinikiewicz
As if the expansive new album wasn't enough, The GOAT has two follow up EP's completed, each featuring international remixers reworking tracks from the album. JFK of MSTRKRFT, Risa Taniguchi, Joel West, ANNA V, MÆDON, & Alex Bau will all be contributing mixes for the EP's, released on July 8th and due on August 12th.
Austin Multi-Instrumentalist/Producer 1st Base Runner Releases His New EP "Light Roars"
"Light Roars" is the 3rd official EP offering from award-winning Austin, TX experimental indie rock multi-instrumentalist and producer 1st Base Runner. Listen to this project now!
"Light Roars" is the 3rd official EP offering from award-winning Austin, TX experimental indie rock multi-instrumentalist and producer 1st Base Runner. Following up the acclaimed releases "Seven Years of Silence" and "Ellis" (which charted on the NACC Radio Top 200 for 6 + weeks upon it's release), "Light Roars" enhances the edgy post-punk, gothic atmospherics and expansive post-rock elements of the project as well as the dark, emotionally poignant lyrical themes.
"Light Roars" finds 1st Base Runner's Tim Husmann adding live drums and bigger guitars to his signature sound, making this a heavier, more rhythmic collection than it's predecessors. Husmann has also assembled a full live band, recording a live EP and video series which will also see the light of day in 2022. The cover artwork for "Light Roars" continues Husmann's creative collaboration with the legendary Matt Needle. Moody, unpredictable and uncompromising, 1st Base Runner is the steadfast artistic Anti-Hero we need in 2022's repetitious music scene.
Under the guidance of longtime Radiohead Creative Director Dilly Gent, the project will soon release a video for menacing EP closer "Planter".
Fans of artists as varied as My Bloody Valentine, Radiohead, Joy Division, Nine Inch Nails, Aphex Twin and Godspeed! You Black Emperor should find common threads in 1st Base Runner's music.
Interview: Toronto Rap Artist GTech Discusses His New Single "I Met Her At Caribana"
Big shout out to Toronto based rap artist @officialGTech who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his new single “I Met Her At Caribana”, his rap collective Foxpack and much more.
“I honestly want to eliminate this dark cloud of Toronto’s negative reputations, and furthermore push a more positive narrative, because Toronto is filled with endless talent that is untapped.”
Congratulations on the release of your new single "I Met Her At Caribana"; for those of us who have never attended the event, how did it inspire you to write the song and is it based on a true story?
The inspiration behind “I Met Her At Caribana” derives from my love to the Caribbean culture while celebrating different events during Caribana. I am actually not from the Caribbean, but I’ve always enjoyed going to Caribana every year. And it is not actually based on a true story haha. It was just a song I wanted to create based on all the memories I had during all the Caribana events.
With Caribana kicking off later this month on the 28th, can we expect a music video for this track to be released?
I definitely wanted to shoot music video for it, but my timeline right now is not aligning for this plan. Hopefully in the near future!
Since the spotlight has been on Toronto for a long time now due to artists like Drake and the Weekend, would you say that artists in your hometown are very competitive and cutthroat or are generally open to work together to achieve the goal of success?
Toronto is filled with a plethora of talented artists with many big names that have opened doors for upcoming artists. So yes, the competition is immensely competitive. This naturally has created wedges between many artists not wanting to work with each other, which is a common reputation for Toronto. However, all the Toronto artists I know personally have been down to earth, and willing to support my music with the willingness to work together.
I honestly want to eliminate this dark cloud of Toronto’s negative reputations, and furthermore push a more positive narrative, because Toronto is filled with endless talent that is untapped.
What can you tell us about Foxpack, the hip hop group you're a part of? Who are the members and how did you all connect?
Foxpack is a music group that originally formed back in 2012. We broke down doors with our debut single “House Party.” We shot the music video at an actual house party and it accumulated to 11,000 views on YouTube. Back in the day, that was a lot. We subsequently released a few music videos that would hit thousands of views as well. We created a decent buzz in the city for us.
Foxpack consists of myself, Epic, D-Sciple, and Pablo Tha Don. As a collective, we are a super lyrical group. Individually we are emcees, but together we are a mythical creature when it comes to hip-hop lyricism. I’ve always compared us to Slaughterhouse. Myself and D-Sciple are actually old high-school friends, and the same with Epic and Pablo. We ended up connecting through mutual friends, and then we joined forces to form Foxpack.
With "I Met Her At Caribana" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?
I plan to promote “I Met Her At Caribana” until the end of the summer. After that, my next single, “Euphoria” will release in the Fall.
I plan to create a website and release merch some time this year. My plan is monetize and brand my music. Even though I have been making music for 20 years, I feel like I have just started.
Rochester, NY's 38 Spesh Announces New Project "7 Shots", and Releases "Last Gasp", With Ransom
To get listeners ready for what they are about to experience on “7 Shots”, @iamSpesh is sparking it off with the project's lead single “Last Gasp,” which features TRUST mob capo, Ransom. “7 Shots” drops on 8/12.
A few things in life still live up to expectations. One of them is hearing 38 Spesh and Ransom barring up on a track together; which they do on the just-released single “Last Gasp.”
38 Spesh has been so focused on producing for the last year, rappers finally got a chance to breathe. But that will end when he releases his forthcoming project 7 Shots, which will once again demonstrate how effortless emceeing is for the Rochester mastermind.
Upstate boss 38 Spesh is known for dropping guest verses that are the highlight of other artists’ albums. He has quietly become tastemakers’ top pick for “next to blow.” Just ask DJ Premier, Sway, Method Man, Lloyd Banks, or Mistah FAB. Further, his ear for talent heralded the arrival of Che Noir and the reemergence of Ransom. Not to mention, he signed Benny The Butcher to his label almost a decade before he entered the spotlight. And as far as his production, he may be the most slept-on beat-maker in the game. He has crafted tailor-made, distinctive sound beds for a who’s who list of emcees in the new underground.
Though Spesh has been content to play the background while helping others move to the forefront, starting this summer, he is about to go on an epic run, as its time for Spesh to take his place among the scene’s elite; and it all starts with his upcoming 7 Shots, the third installment in his evolving fan-favorite “Shots Series.”
To get listeners ready for what they are about to experience on 7 Shots, Spesh is sparking it off with the project's lead single “Last Gasp,” which features TRUST mob capo, Ransom.
Check out “Last Gasp” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with 38 Spesh on his social media. Also, be on the lookout for “7 Shots”, which will be released on 8/12.
Interview: Amar Miller Talks About His Newly Released Music Video "Long Road (Never Coming Home Pt. 1)"
Big salute to Toledo, OH based artist @ImAmarMiller who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his self-directed music video for “Long Road (Never Coming Home Pt. 1)”, and much more.
“I don’t like being called a “rapper,” honestly. It puts me into a box that I’m bigger than. I like to sing, I like to write, I like to create. I like to feel, I like to be happy, I like to express frustrations and be sad sometimes.”
Congratulations on the release of the music video for your track "Long Road (Never Coming Home Pt. 1)”, which you also directed. What initially inspired you to write the song, and what led to you directing the clip?
Thank you, for real!! The song was written in the spring of 2021. Within the previous months, I had a falling out with someone who is probably in my top ten most positive influences in my life. It’s about going back through the memories, and realizing that I care for that person probably more than I could willingly admit to myself and friends. When you know someone in and out, you know what makes them happy, but you also know their struggles. The song was doing my best to reach out and to be positive about facing the hardships of what’s going on in their life.
As far as directing the music video, videography and cinematic shoots have always been something I wanted to do. It seemed like their was no better time to try it out for myself.
I saw my favorite artists appear in videos with a similar style, so I wanted to see if I could put my own spin on it. Shoutout to MeHere Productions for helping me shoot some of the shots.
The song appears on your album "Better Late Than Never..."; why did you decide to film a video for it and will there be other visuals released from the project?
Long Road is was my first lead single for the project. It’s one of my most viewed songs, and it’s been more places than a lot of my other music. The song also just means a lot to me, so it’s great that I could continue to expand on that song creatively.
I definitely want to shoot more visuals. I’m working on one right now with a few of my friends. All directed by me again. Very excited to share it!
If you had to pick one song from the album that would represent you the most as an artist to a stranger, which one would you select and why?
That is a great flippin’ question, man…
I don’t like being called a “rapper,” honestly. It puts me into a box that I’m bigger than. I like to sing, I like to write, I like to create. I like to feel, I like to be happy, I like to express frustrations and be sad sometimes. That’s why it’s hard to pick one song from the album; there’s so many different sounds and moods.
I think I sing the best on “Wake Up Call,” but I think “Last Night,” is the most catchy. My answer probably would be “Last Night.” It’s the song I’m most proud of, and the song that most people tend to gravitate towards; but I always want people to know that there’s so much more to me than that sound and that style.
You're currently a student at Oklahoma State University; how difficult is it to juggle your academic responsibilities and your musical aspirations?
I’m gonna be honest, it’s hell. Even so, I’ve found a group of artists who are just amazing at their craft. Shout-out to my friends Abunndance, JustBrae, and DaProphet. We’re all students, but these guys have been driving me to create the best music I can, all the while being the best person I can be.
Aside from my friends, on a more personal level, it’s very hard to balance school and music. Money is always a the biggest factor, and nobody has their financial situation in order at this age. Finding places to record is also really challenging. I usually record back home in Toledo, and spending time in Oklahoma going to school really challenges what you can do creatively.
With the visual for "Long Road (Never Coming Home Pt. 1)” now released and the year winding down, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?
More appearances. I’ve been really heavy on trying to conduct myself more like a brand and a business, and I’ve got great people around me who help a lot with that. More magazines, more interviews, more placements. I need all that.
There’s one song I want to drop for the whole rest of the year, and that’s a song I’ve been hoarding for a bit called “Balance.” This song features well known Chicago/Philly artist, theMIND, and my friend DIVERZE. from Buffalo. Both individuals have done wonders for me with their work, so I’m very happy to finally make a record where both of them are on it.
Stream and Share “Better Late Than Never…” on Spotify
Connect with Amar Miller: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Spotify
Interview: Twn Chxppa Discusses His DOPE New Single "Rude!"
Big thanks to New York based artist Twn Chxppa who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his new track “Rude!”, his recent book “When The Time Comes”, and much more.
“To me, seeing my friends go in the booth and rap seemed fun, so I tried it for a verse on one of my friend’s songs and even though it wasn’t the best verse at all, it brought a sense of excitement for me to keep at it.”
Salute to you on the release of your new single "Rude!"; it is a great track. What initially inspired you to write the song, and who produced it?
So the track is produced by heydium and my inspiration for creating this song was to go and make a summer vibe. From initially listening to the beat before writing to it, I knew this could be a song that people could cruise and vibe to on a sunny summer day.
With "Rude!" now unveiled, can we expect a music video to follow, or will you be dropping another track next?
So I'm always working on new music nowadays but I do have a music video planned for "Rude!" and it is actually an animated music video.
You're not just an emerging artist on the rise, but a published author as well. Tell us about your book, "When the Time Comes", and what you are most proud of with this literary piece.
So my book is about a young teen discovering his family lineage to an alternate planet in which he is told he has been chosen to protect the entire universe from an evil threat. I think what I'm most proud of with the novel is that I was able to represent myself and the troubles I've had with mental health throughout the years, through the main character AJ to bring awareness towards prioritizing mental health especially in black and brown people.
What specifically was it about attending your friends' recording sessions that motivated you to pick up the pen and pad and start creating your own music?
To me, seeing my friends go in the booth and rap seemed fun, so I tried it for a verse on one of my friend's songs and even though it wasn't the best verse at all, it brought a sense of excitement for me to keep at it.
Especially since you really just began recording music, do you have any goals musically that you want to achieve for the rest of 2022?
I would say that my main goal is to get better and to develop a unique sound so that I can stand out from other artists.
Apollo Brown Releases His New Instrumental Album "This Must Be the Place"
Prolific Michigan producer Apollo Brown is proud to announce “This Must Be The Place”, his first instrumental album in 8 years, is out now on Mello Music Group. Listen to this DOPE new project now!
Prolific Michigan producer Apollo Brown is proud to announce This Must Be The Place, his first instrumental album in 8 years, is out now on Mello Music Group. For the veteran beatmaker, the new album is a self-reflection in beat form over his 15-year career working with artists including Ghostface Killah, Danny Brown, Joell Ortiz, Roc Marciano, Stalley, Raheem DeVaughn, and many more.
Recorded over the past two years of the pandemic in his home studio Brown Study, Apollo Brown transposes the happiness he’s found in his career, family, and circle of friends into his new album, This Must Be The Place. Brown explains the meaning behind the title, “It's that peaceful place in your existence where you've always dreamt of being, the attainment of certain emotional, physical, and spiritual elements that make you whole, and being so comfortable with life, that you could sit on the edge of a cliff and fly a kite.”
The creation process for this album is especially unique when compared to Apollo Brown’s previous work. Highly-revered for digging in the crates and his traditional sample use, Brown chose a different method for making This Must Be The Place, pulling from compositions by some of his trusted sound designer colleagues. Brown explains, “I wanted to craft this album out of modern instrumentation. The result is just what I wanted.” This Must Be the Place is a continuation of Brown’s celebrated 2011 album, Clouds, as well as a departure from it. Clouds was melancholic boom-bap made for the fall, the soundtrack to a ruminative walk through a leaf-strewn park beneath gray skies, but Brown’s new album “This Must Be the Place” trades somberness for warm nostalgia and glimmers of hope. Brown offers moments for reflective gratitude and portals of escape through new permutations of East Coast-rooted boom-bap, his drums hitting with concussive force as snares crack like ice on midwestern lakes.
For every instrumental that inspires reflection, another transports you above the clouds and to the cosmos. At every sonic turn, This Must Be The Place can remind you to appreciate living the life you imagined or push you as you navigate there. Brown concludes, “It definitely encapsulates my gratitude for my career, family, friends, supporters, and the growing world around me.”
Listen to “This Must Be the Place” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Apollo Brown on his social media.
Mass Appeal's DJ Premier: HIP HOP 50th Anniversary EP Drops This Friday, July 15th
@MassAppeal has announced that “DJ Premier: Hip Hop 50 Volume 1” - the 1st EP as part of Hip Hop 50: The Soundtrack - will be released on July 15th. The EP will be produced by the legendary DJ Premier, and includes all-new, original music from Nas, Lil Wayne, Run The Jewels, Joey Bada$$, Remy Ma, Rapsody and Slick Rick.
Mass Appeal has announced that “DJ Premier: Hip Hop 50 Volume 1” - the 1st EP as part of Hip Hop 50: The Soundtrack - will be released on July 15th. Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, the 5-track project will celebrate the sounds of one of Hip Hops most prolific producers and include all-new, original music from Nas, Lil Wayne, Run The Jewels, Joey Bada$$, Remy Ma, Rapsody and Slick Rick.
Its an honor to kick off this iconic Hip Hop 50 music program. Hip Hop continues to inspire fans across the globe and its incredible to think of what the next 50-years will bring DJ Premier affirmed.
The Soundtrack will encompass a series of 10 EPs of all newly released music that will bring together the industrys most highly regarded producers who are defining the culture in celebration of 50 years of Hip Hop. Following DJ Premiers EP release, fans can look forward to new music curated by Swizz Beatz, Mustard, The-Dream, Mike Will Made It, No I.D., Hit-Boy, Take A Daytrip and Tainy.
The entire series will be distributed via Mass Appeals new deal with The Orchard. Bringing together some of the biggest names in Hip Hop, this project will further solidify the #HipHop50 movement as it not only captures 50 years of culture but will also honor some of the latest and greatest to do it. A portion of all #HipHop50 proceeds will be donated to various charitable organizations, including, the Universal Hip Hop Museum set to open its doors in 2024.
Mass Appeals massive #HipHop50 initiative includes strategic partnerships, immersive global activations and innovative content/programming in celebration of Hip Hops 50th birthday. Mass Appeal recently announced its partnership with Live Nation Urban to produce live event programming. From Park Jams to Festival stages, this partnership will create moments that will bring together the voices that turned Hip Hop into a way of life.
Additionally, Mass Appeal has its #HipHop50 premium content partnership with Paramount + / Showtime, which has aired documentaries such as: YOURE WATCHING VIDEO MUSIC BOX, CYPRESS HILL: INSANE IN THE BRAIN and more. Fans can look forward to SUPREME TEAM premiering on July 10th. Last year, Mass Appeal also launched its Spotify Original podcast - The Bridge: 50 Years of Hip Hop - hosted by Grammy-Award winning artist Nas and radio personality Minya Miss Info Oh.
About #HipHop50
With 2023 marking Hip Hops 50th anniversary, Mass Appeal developed #HipHop50 - a massive cross-platform initiative aimed at celebrating Hip Hops momentous anniversary in the most authentic and globally impactful way possible. #HipHop50 is a multi-year celebration that includes strategic partnerships and immersive global activations - all accompanied by charitable elements. As 2023 approaches, #HipHop50 will create once-in-a-lifetime moments featuring the iconic voices that have transcended culture.
About Mass Appeal
Mass Appeal is an entertainment company dedicated to telling stories from the perspective of those who shape and shift culture. Since 1996, we have documented the emerging movements that influence popular ideas. Today, Mass Appeal is the elevated voice of Hip Hop and its ever-expanding sphere of influence. Integrated offerings in content, music, and creative services stoke Mass Appeals ability to maximize the impact of our output. Our diverse school of thought separates us from friends and foes alike.
Pre-Save “DJ PREMIER: HIP HOP 50 VOLUME 1”: HERE
Interview: THISMINORITY Talks About His New Single "MEDI" and Upcoming Album "THE MINORITY REPORT"
DCWS connected with talented rap artist @THISMINORITY for an exclusive interview to discuss his new single “MEDI”, which will appear on his upcoming project “THE MINORITY REPORT”, and much more.
“Poetry came first and then music. I finished college and received masters, certifications, yada yada but felt like something was missing. I thought I would feel some type of success or fulfillment but none came.”
Congratulations on the release of your new track "MEDI"; what motivated you to write it, and how did you decide on Scropio Prodz's instrumental?
I was motivated by my motivation to maintain balance. “MEDI” is me wanting to inspire people to try meditation to achieve some level of balance within self.
The beat Scorpio Prodz was found before the idea came to mind but as I wrote the song it grew to become a trojan horse to those that may need some meditation. I’m not talking only in a traditional sense, but in the sense of having a space filled with something that gives your mind and spirit a break to connect with yourself. Low key, beats like this could be like that for some.
If you could pick any artist to appear on a remix to "MEDI", who would you select?
If I was to go local or indie I’ll go with this fire artist that goes by the name of Yamalisan (IG same name). This dude has the type of energy that elevates the room most definitely. Don’t write but the bars heavy.
If I was to go more mainstream it would be ScHoolboy Q. He’ll bring that aggressive energy but he’ll also make it hit poetically.
"MEDI" will be featured on your upcoming project "THE MINORITY REPORT"; what can you tell us about it, and would you say that it has an overall theme conceptually?
“THE MINORITY REPORT” is a series of my reflections during my change into an artist who wants to provide a service to the masses, through music first. Each track is a different vibe that captures how I see who I am becoming. Acknowledging that I am an individual who knows what he is supposed to serve and have to let go of who I was while not losing touch with who I am. Not lose touch with what molded me and help get me to this level of creation.
Also, I’m very big on introductions so before I get to my service I really want to let people know me on multiple levels so we can work together. The type of work we’re going to do will be breathtaking.
Will you be releasing a music video for "MEDI"? Also, do you plan on dropping another single prior to the project?
I have this snippet video. It’s a good foundation for the track as a whole. After finishing all of the songs for THE MINORITY REPORT”, I thought a good way to promote it was to show videos for each song. The full length video of “MEDI” would be crazy and would cost a lot.
I have crowdfunding link set up here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-minority-report-legal-visual-funding?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1
Had to plug it lol but I do have two more singles before I release “THE MINORITY REPORT”. Both tracks having a different vibe from MEDI!
Tell us about how you got started writing rhymes and what THISMINORITY represents as a masked emcee.
Poetry came first and then music. I finished college and received masters, certifications, yada yada but felt like something was missing. I thought I would feel some type of success or fulfillment but none came. So I journeyed around my city of New Orleans with some guidance.
Rewind, before I journeyed I saw this amazing public speaker deliver a speech effortlessly. At the time, the thought of me speaking in front of people made me sick. Also at the time, I heard J. Cole say these lyrics in a song “My only adversary was my own mind, Killed my ego now I'm snappin' like it's '09, With a gold mine of inspiration for y'all.” It made me realize I came from a really dark place and maybe I could help people come from dark places.
Going back to the public speaker, I thought he could guide me so I asked: How do I become a better public speaker? His advice was to sign up for toastmasters and take dance classes. Toastmasters for speaking and getting comfortable with speaking in front of people and dancing so I can be comfortable with public speaking. This is that guidance.
Doing these led me to tapping into the artist scene within New Orleans (happened 2016-2017). I saw this amazing poet named ICon and she made me feel like I should be doing poetry. With my meditation, discipline, dedication, and growing sense of self I was able to get to the point of writing a poem that I was willing to share in front of people.
My first time was at the beginning of 2018. I damn-near passed out due to the anticipation of performing but when I got up there I felt like I levitated…
Like everything made since. During 2018-2019 I would build to become an amazing poet and writer. Also in 2019, I had a friend with an in-home studio who wanted to work with me and record my poetry. Somehow when he played some beats I started writing to them. The rest is history in the making!
As for my name, THISMINORITY is a temporary artist name. It comes from the term minorities…
When you hear that term you hear the few. So when you hear THISMINORITY you are hearing the voice of one. The only one that there are no duplicates. The one you can have similarities with and can connect with on multiple levels but still an individual. An individual that goes through their own life changes. That is while I wear those masks. Each mask color is either inspired by the chakra point that the song touches or the vibe the song gives. The mask symbolizes cocoons and different types of metamorphosis I've experienced.
THISMINORITY, the only one and aiming to help you connect with self.
With "MEDI" out now, and "THE MINORITY REPORT" coming soon, do you have any other musical goals that you want to accomplish before 2022 ends?
Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnn, wooooommmmmannnnnnnnnnn, or non binary peeeerrrrrrrrssssooonnnnnnnn look!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have a good bit of insane joints in the vault already finished so while pushing everything to grow my fanbase through marketing I want to release those tracks. On top of that, I want to perform at festivals, events, etc.
Grow my fanbase on multiple levels and collaborate with my fans because that’s what it is about for me, CONNECTION.
Connecting with people massively and them connecting with me and then eventually that connection, love, inspiration, etc. that I put out comes back to me when I need it the most. We are all here together so I’m working to build with y’all!!!!!!!!!!!!
Connect with THISMINORITY: Website | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook