Chicken Korma Pilau and Naan

One To Watch - Mz Bratt

2009-06-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

Electro laced debut video from Grime's very own Mz Bratt. Word has it that Pete Tong's a big fan. Good thing or bad thing?

Three's A Crowd...

2009-06-01T14:53:00.000-07:00

Today, 1st June 2009, is a landmark occasion in grime. Forget 50 Cent vs Kanye West (there was only going to be one winner there), this is the big one. Three of the scene's heavyweights all release albums (that's right, no mixtapes here) on the same date and go head to head to truly prove who is the real (and I quote Skepta by saying) 'king of grime'.

Wiley - Race Against Time

Skepta - Microphone Champion

Bashy - Catch Me If You Can

In the build up to today, it was widely predicted that there would only be one winner, Wiley. The tale of the tape will show based on previous efforts, the Godfather wins hands down. Although widely recognised as a true grime album, Skepta's previous effort Greatest Hits, left something to be desired as it was fully of three year old lyrics/beats. Some would recognise that it does exactly what it says on the tin and includes all his biggest smashes. However, it would've good to see him push the boundaries of the sound and maybe bring something new to the table.

Microphone Champion includes Too Many Man and Dark feat. Trigger along with Sunglasses At Night and Rolex Sweep as bonus tracks.

Whereas on the other hand, having listened to a few of the tracks prior to release, it seems Race Against Time is nailed on to be a success. With tracks such as Where's My Brother, Hummer Activity and of course, She's Glowing Remix, this, (like all his releases) has the potential to be an instant classic. (We'll ignore The Olly feat. MC Dream, the less said about that, the better).

Then peering over their shoulders stands Bashy. Although a constant within the scene, he's also branched into out with other avenues such as big screen musical direction (see Adulthood) and a reported upcoming collaboration with Blur's Damon Albarn. It's clear to see that Bashy can pose as a real threat in this three horse race. Catch Me If You Can includes the huge Who Wants to Be A Millionaire as well as Kidulthood to Adulthood & Black Boys as bonus tracks (wise move).

If this can be more rounded, varied and polished versions of The Chupachups Mixtape, who knows what could happen?

Both Catch Me If You Can and Microphone Champion can be found at all the usual outlets whereas Avalanche Music Hut have Race Against Time as an exclusive until 8th June 2009.

I leave you with a memorable piece of marketing that marks the run up to this monumental and maybe even, historic day...

Davinche - Rider Update

2009-05-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

Following on from the preview below, here's the full version of
Riding For Love feat. Clea & Bashy.

The Rider mixtape is due out 8th June.

Get your digital release on the 7th June by texting: RIDER or RIDING4LOVE to 78789

Subscribe to www.youtube.com/DavincheTV and see exclusive snippets of various versions of Rider including Tinchy Stryder, Skepta, Wretch 32, Ny,
Tinie Tempah and more...

Pre-Order the 'Rider' Mixtape on www.play.com

Davinche Ft. Ghetto, JME & Keedo - Rider

2009-05-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

Huge new track from heavyweight Grime producer Davinche. Some might recognise this as the intro to Wiley's 'experimental' album See Clear Now.

Also, take a look at the video preview for the alternate version featuring Clea & Bashy. The full digital release of the Rider project is released on 24 May which includes versions by Wiley, Ghettz, Skepta, Tinie Tempah, Ny and Wretch32.

www.myspace.com/davinche1

Whilst on topic, take a minute to cast your vote in the latest poll.

Boy Better Know - Too Many Man

2009-04-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Bit late with this one but check out the interesting use of face paint.

Wiley - Wheres My Brother? Unofficial Video

2009-04-21T02:57:00.000-07:00

Fan made video to Wiley's huge but yet to be released track Wheres My Brother. There's been been plenty of speculation surrounding who he refers to as his 'brother', could it be Dizzee, Titch or maybe even the self confessed king of grime, Skepta?

Definitive Moments in Grime

2009-03-02T13:41:00.001-08:00

2. Artist - The Importance of Roll Deep

People within the scene know Roll Deep not only for being one of the founding crews in grime, but also as a collective with almost as many personnel changes as Destiny's Child/Sugababes. However, to their credibility, where many crews are falling by the wayside,they possess an underestimated quality - continuity.

Formed from the ashes of Pay As You Go crew, Roll Deep were formed in 2002 by the remaining members Wiley, Flo Dan, Target, and Breeze. It was also around this time that Dizzee Rascal was emerging as a young prodigy and was quickly ushered in by Wiley (who over the years, has been seen as the controlling element within the clique). It was this decision that really pushed the crew to the forefront of the grime scene.

Whilst honing their mic skills on pirate radio and performing at garage events such Sidewinder, Roll Deep quickly built up a strong following due to the individual elements that each member brought to the table. Like with any other musical collective, your end product is built on the input and quality of it's members - Roll Deep had this in abundance.

Having seen or listened to any of their shows/sets, it was clear to see that each member was strong enough to stand as an individual artist and still be a success. You only have to see where this took Dizzee Rascal (arguably, it could be seen as he outgrown/outshone the group) but there was plenty to come from where Raskit emerged.

Due to their ever growing popularity, the scene clamoured for hard copies of their radio sets in which they duly released the Creeper mixtape series. To this day, many still believe this to be their best work due to the raw, untamed nature of the beats and lyrics.

By this time, as you would expect, record label A & R's were sniffing around sensing the chance of a bit of easy money. This is where they secured their first major record deal with Relentless Records and subsequently released their much acclaimed (and maligned) debut album In At The Deep End. By this time, Dizzee Rascal had long left the group and had spawned a classic with Boy In The Corner.

In At The Deep End

Many praised the group for branching out to a more commercial audience but were also criticised for the use of 80's pop samples and cheesy hooks but, to their credit, still kept their integrity with the content of the lyrics. In my opinion, this was, and still is, their best work to date due to the diversity throughout.

In At The Deep End went on to spawn two singles which charted - The Avenue (11) and Shake A Leg (24). In between projects they also released an anti gun crime single Badman which was then included on their next 'album' Rules & Regulations. The group were also nominated for a MOBO award in 2005.

The album deal with Relentless then came to a mutual end which posed a difficult question of direction; do they continue with their chart friendly rap or focus on making a potential classic to match their former crew member? Luckily, they chose the latter and the self funded Rules & Regulations was announced as the notoriously difficult second album and later released on

26 March 2007.

Rules and Regulations

With a new mixtape, new voices were heard. North London mc Skepta officially joined the group and collaborations with fellow mc's Jammer, Frisco & Tempa T followed. Without wanting to be seen as standing still, these additions kept the sound fresh and the listener interested.

It was in between projects that is was discovered that firm favourite Trim had left the crew with 'artistic differences' being the reason cited . This then led to a further recruitment drive being held and emerging mc Little D joined along with the semi legendary mc, J2K.

Based on the successes on thier previous albums/mixtapes, the group were then able to create their own label Roll Deep Recordings providing them with self sufficiency and more importantly, full artistic license. With this in mind, they then moved on to their second album ( Rules and Regulations was generally viewed as a second mixtape) Return Of The Big Money Sound released 13 October 2008 . With their label setup, they looked to experiment and introduce other styles into their music ( look up 'Moving In Circles feat. Kivanc) such as Ska, bassline house and the use of acoustic instruments.

Return Of The Big Money Sound

In summary, over the past seven years, Roll Deep have been (and remain to be) one of the most influential and important parts of the grime scene to date. If history is to go by, there's still much more to come from the east london collective which promises the continuation of impression, inspiration and motivation.

Definitive Moments in Grime

2009-03-02T12:57:00.000-08:00

This is a new section to the blog which puts the spotlight on the defining moments and/or movements which changed the game. If you have any suggestions or feel someone or something deserves an honourable mention, leave a comment against this post.

Let's start the series with what is no doubt universally recognized as the classic grime album since it's conception...

1. Album - The Impact of Boy In The Corner

After building his name on the underground circuit as a member of the Roll Deep Crew, Dizzee Rascal released his debut album "Boy In Da Corner" on 21 July 2003 which, despite its aggresive style and content, was lauded with unanimous acclaim from the music media.

Unless you had your ear firmly nailed to the ground, the sounds, feel and style of this album had never been heard before. Dizzee stated at the time that he felt his music sounded like 'the end of the world' in which you can see his point. At the time of release, NME described it as 'balaclava-clad gangs of teenagers wiring London's tenement blocks with dynamite and razing them to the ground.' which is difficult to disagree with considering the use of harsh, relentless synth/drum combos, crisp snares and stadium rock-like bass which feel have been put together as if they're fighting for speaker space.

It's a pure unabashed tale of real life struggles as a youth growing up under the pressures of the bright lights of LDN. Topics such as street robbings, under age pregnancy and general street life are all explained with such brutal honesty and transparency.

Now, almost six years on, Boy In The Corner is seen as inspiration for any rising Grime mc. Despite numerous attempts, this album has yet to be bettered and is seen as the ultimate reference point when introducing a listener to the genre.

Boy In The Corner went onto sell over 250,000 copies and was nominated for (and then won) The Mercury Music Prize later that year. It's with this in mind, how strange it is that the general public choose to dismiss Grime as a musical genre when it produces masterpieces such as this.

Wiley feat. Kano & Ghetts - She Glows

2009-02-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

Long awaited video to the autotune laden She Glows. Make sure to look out for Ghetts' Inspector Gadget style overcoat. She Glows is taken from Wiley's much talked about project Race Against Time which, if believed, has been pushed back to early 2010.

Recommended - Durrty Goodz - UltraSound

2009-02-04T12:43:00.001-08:00

This is Durrty Goodz' latest mixtape which precedes his hotly anticpated album Born Blessed and is already being touted as one of the best releases of the year (and it's only February?). This is out now exclusively at Ukrecordshop.com. A review is planned soon so be sure to keep an eye out.

Newham Generals - Grime Scene Saviours?

2009-02-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

New video from the General's new single - Head Get Mangled taken from their forthcoming debut album 'Generally Speaking' out this month (according to myspace.com/dizzeerascal )

Great Prodigy-style production which has already grabbed the attention of numerous digital music channels and nicely sets up the introduction of their long awaited album.

Now I know what your thinking, Grime needs no saviour, it's rolling nicely. What the title refers to is that I feel they can change the way the mainstream views Grime as genre. It's clear to see this track has massive public appeal and is going to be a stormer at this summer's festivals, hence leaving the audience hungry for more. The obvious next step is for them to go hunting for their album so, with the right promotion and track selection, success could be just around the corner. The signs are even brighter when you consider that their mentor Dizzee Rascal had last year, enjoyed a UK number one single on their shared record label, Dirtee Stank.

On a personal note, this track poses an interesting question - do they stay loyal to their Grime roots or forge a career in dance music a la Leftfield/AudioBullys? Their potential for this change in direction is there for all see.

Click here to watch an RWDmag interview with the Generals about Head Gets Mangled.

myspace.com/newhamgenerals

Skepta - Sunglasses At Night

2009-01-28T16:05:00.000-08:00

Latest offering from the Boy Better Know CEO but it makes you wonder - when is Grime and Electro going to end their sordid love affair?

Roll Deep - Moving In Circles

2009-01-25T13:09:00.001-08:00

Video to Roll Deep's latest release 'Moving In Circles' taken from their album 'Return Of The Big Money Sound'. A different style to what they usually bring but still a decent effort nonetheless.

www.myspace.com/rolldeepofficial

Tinchy Times

2009-01-25T11:55:00.000-08:00

What a start to 2009 it's been for Tinchy Stryder.

It's just been confirmed that 'Take Me Back feat. Taio Cruz' has hit no.3 in the Official UK Singles Chart. Anyone who's followed Tinchy's progress since he won Best Newcomer at the 2003 Sidewinder Awards will agree that this success is fully deserved on his work rate alone. People may point of other artists with a similar ethic but none have come close to the crossover appeal of tracks such as 'Breathe' and 'Something About Your Smile', so this will come as no surprise to many.

This now means that there's been three top five singles by Grime Artists in the past twelve months which brings back the same familiar question - are the British buying public now ready for the Grimewave? Or this is another false dawn with record companies nipping at bits and pieces from the scene a la UK Garage?

Will this open doors for others? It's shaping up to be an interesting year...

Watch Tinchy and Taio's acoustic version of 'Take Me Back' here

www.myspace.com/tinchystryder

Thank you

2008-10-08T12:12:00.002-07:00

Just a quick thanks to all that voted, ChickenKormaPilauandNaan came 86th out of the Best Music Blog's Top 100 at the BT Digital Music Awards.

To check the results, click here

Greatest Show On Earth?

2008-10-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

Below are videos taken from Kano's 140 Grime Street album launch party at the O2 Arena in London. Many have commented that this is a historic moment in Grime as Kano, Ghetto, Wiley, Skepta, Tinchy Stryder and JME all blessed the stage in one huge performance. If Grime is to blow as expected, we need more collaborations such as this. Then watch the scene grow...

[Double click the videos to watch in High Quality]

Kano Feat. Ghetto - Hunting We Will Go

Kano Feat. Skepta - These MC's

Welcome Back

2008-09-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Kano's 140 Grime Street was delivered to me today. Having had a quick listen through, the initial thought was that this could be one of Grime's greatest ever releases. A reviews in the pipeline so be sure to check back soon.

How will it stand up against such classics as Boy In The Corner/Treddin On Thin Ice? Will this be held with the same esteem as these albums? Only time will tell...

One thing however, as the title of this post suggests, Kano's back - and with one hell of a bang.

2008-09-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

Ghetto feat. Tamzin - Sing For Me

2008-09-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Great new video from Ghetto for his latest offering Sing For Me, which includes an impressive electro remix.

Click to download the full track and the remix

Fuda Guy - Rock n Roll

2008-09-19T12:27:00.001-07:00

Currently on rotation and taken from the new album Head Gone.
Another Grime/(insert music genre here) crossover. A further example of how flexible it can be when artists choose to experiment.

We've had indie, electro and now rock, what's next?

New and Forthcoming Releases...

2008-09-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

Roll Deep - Return Of The Big Money Sound released 6 October 2008

Wiley - I See Clear released 27 October 2008

Kano - 140 Grime Street released 29 September 2008

Low Deep - Unsung out now

Ironik - No Point In Wasting Tears released 29 September 2008

Sway - The Signature LP released 6 October 2008

Chicken Korma Pilau And Naan recommends...

Fuda Guy - Head Gone out now

Grime shouldn't pay

2008-09-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

This is an article I stumbled upon from November 2006 regarding the unfairly reported link that Grime and Violence share. It's an interesting piece by Guardian blogger Jamie Collinson.

"While MC Crazy Titch's shooting of producer Richard Holmes is unforgivable, grime is a lot less violent than its predecessor, UK garage. Rather, it's a sonically exciting music which must re-ignite its spark.

Boy in da corner. Grime's shining hope Dizzee Rascal.

It's a popular complaint amongst the legion of grime fans, artists, promoters and generally interested parties that much of the mainstream coverage the genre receives tends to connect it with violence. In my experience as a sometime grime promoter and now as label manager to the grime artist Wiley, I would argue that, largely, these complaints should be upheld.

I would certainly dispute Ned Beauman's assertion that grime is more violent than its 'sexy' predecessor, 2-Step garage. In general, the garage explosion in the late 90's was notable for its slightly older and far more glamorous, moneyed audience; champagne, bling and dressed-up girls all being features. Grime nights are usually a polar opposite. It's hard enough to keep the clubs' bars happy with the minimal takings they get from an audience of keen, if impoverished teens. Grime is grimy, dirty, admittedly aggressive lyrically, but gangsters prefer glamour.

Crazy Titch's shooting of another young man is unforgivable, but I'd wager that grime had little to do with it in the end. Insiders like Logan Sama claim that the dispute had escalated far beyond song lyrics, and Crazy had extremely heated lyrical battles with fellow MCs Dizzee Rascal and Bruza that never led to horrific crimes like this. The crime appears more related to the worrying, wider obsession with respect.

To my knowledge there have now been three significant examples of violence rumoured to have a connection to grime. The stabbing of Dizzee Rascal in Ayia Napa, the beating of a journalist by a crew at Plastic People's dubstep night FWD, and now Crazy Titch's shooting of Richard Holmes.

That's three too many, especially in the short three years since the term 'grime' was coined. It's important to point out, however, that only the latter is directly related to a 'lyrical beef.' Outside of a few of the genre's inner core, no-one really knows why Dizzee was stabbed, and the crew at FWD reacted violently to being asked to pay for an advert they'd run in the journalist's magazine. Since that happened, most of the grime artists and community members I've spoken to have shunned the crew in question.

Ned Beauman is right to raise the recent dispute between Razorlight and The Kooks; an example, if a contrived one, of rock's chequered history of violence. Punk and its aftermath saw blood spilled by the gallon as right-wingers and rednecks clashed with their rage-filled foes. The Jesus and Mary Chain spent as much time fighting and running as they did playing at their early shows, and The Pistols and The Clash suffered similar scenes on their infamous 'Anarchy' tour. All this has become the stuff of legend and seductive myth. Of course, shooting someone down in cold blood is vastly different, but luckily it hasn't been a regular feature in grime, unlike UK Garage.

At its best, which often it hasn't been of late, grime is the most sonically exciting, highly evolved movement in black music in a very long time. What worries me more than violence is the lack of interest it's been inspiring recently. The police have never shut down my grime nights, but their turnouts have decreased over the last 12 months. Dizzee Rascal's debut album Boy in da Corner was one of the very best black records this country has ever produced, but its excellent sales were partly down to it becoming a hyped, 'must-have' purchase. Now it languishes on the shelves of many as something they'd rather display than listen to. Let's face it, most people would rather be comforted than challenged by music.

With a bit of luck, this is all set to change. Next year will see full-length releases from Wiley, Dizzee Rascal, Kano and Lethal Bizzle, some of the brightest stars in the genre. It's shaping up to be a stellar year, lets just hope that the spark is re-ignited, and that a tremendous musical scene manages to ensure that its violent episodes remain few and far between."

Kano - Hustler

2008-09-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

Best Grime video of the year.

Wiley - Summertime

2008-09-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

Video for Wiley's impending release 'Summertime' making good use of a certain Daft Punk sample. This is taken from the forthcoming album 'I See Clear'. Good video, reminiscent of 80's comedy series House Party (Kid n Play anyone?). With this, alongside Wearin My Rolex, I See Clear is shaping up to be promising album.

Can Wiley make the desired impact in the album charts though? This will undoubtedly shift units but whether he's expanded his buying fan base with his timepiece orientated electro, remains to be seen.

Kano - 140 Grime Street

2008-09-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

Here's a taste of things to come from Kano's forthcoming mixtape
'140 Grime Street' which includes the new single 'Hustler' and features collaborations with artists such as Wiley and Skepta.

Mr Robinson also released samplers of this mixtape to the press in a surprisingly original way.

140 Grime Street will be available from all good independent retailers from 29 September 2008.

Roll Deep - Return Of The Big Money Sound

2008-09-01T14:35:00.001-07:00

Roll Deep's third studio album is due for release on 6 October 2008 which includes the new single 'Do Me Wrong' feat. Janee and the superb Flowdan driven 'Nightlife'. This is a first glimpse of the cover artwork although this isn't a representation of the finished product.

Roll Deep Feat. Janee - Do Me Wrong

2008-08-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

New track from Roll Deep featuring Manga, J2K and Flowdan. Great track but cant help feeling the entourage are taking a step in a new musical direction?

I guess we'll find out when thier new album 'Return Of The Big Money Sound ' is released on 6 October 2008.

www.myspace.com/rolldeepofficial

Sway feat. Lemar - Saturday Night Hustle

2008-08-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

New video from Sway taken from his upcoming album 'The Signiture LP'. Although this isn't grime, I thought I'd post it as it's still a great track.

The Signiture LP is out in September and is shaping up to be a great album. For more details, visit www.myspace.com/swaydasafo.

Tinie Tempah - Next To Blow?

2008-08-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

New video by Tinie produced by Davinche titled 'Tears'. Great looking piece which is sure to grab the attention of the mainstream if given the chance. As the title suggests, I feel that if provided the opportunity, Tinie could go on to bigger and better things, especially if he 'brings grime back to the clubs' as he says at the start.

Whilst on topic, I have to mention that quality of Davinche's productions. He has to be the most consistent hit making grime producer out there. Although his work outside of the scene is well documented, here's hoping he remains so that he provides more great sounding music. His importance in the scene can't be underestimated.

A little reminder of Tinies previous work...

Head over to www.myspace.com/tinielegend to hear an exclusive acoustic version of 'Tears'.

JME - Famous Review

2008-08-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

As I said in my previous post, I intended to review JME's debut album Famous? as soon as I bought it. I got hold of this about a week after release but due to other commitments, I haven't been able to find the time to break it down. However, here goes...

Firstly, I'm not going to review or even refer to the tracks included which should already be classified as Grime staples. This means that AWOH, 1,2,3, Shh Hut Yuh Muh & Serious have been omitted. For simplicities (and laziness') sake, I'm simply giving each track a mark out of 5:

Standard - 3.5/5 Heavy beat, the use of the sample is reminiscent of Wiley's 'Gangster's' or Jammers 'Marksman' and is a successful tried and tested formula within the scene.

Show - 4/5

P - 5/5 This is purely for the beat and bassline, heavy.

Go On My Own - 4/5 Great bassline and hypnotic synths. Strong message regarding doing things for yourself which is exactly what JME's done up to this point.

Punch In The Face - 4/5 A decent track reflecting on the state of 'urban' Britain today.

Road Runner - 4/5

Ghetto Superstar - 4/5

Famous - 4/5

Power - 3/5 Great beat (previously torn apart by Durrty Goods) but bringing Westwood in for the intro is simply embarrassing. Nonetheless, JME's confident flow/swagger does make it a fun track.

Boogiedown Bass - 1/5 I just cant get on with this track full stop, the beat and lyrics don't seem to fit together too well.

Sun, Sea & Sand - 5/5 This, in my opinion, is the best track on the album. Great tale of holidaying abroad which obviously, can bring back lots of good memories for the listener. Although I have to add that the tune itself does sound like a ropey late night quiz show.

Overall, this is an impressive and confident debut album from Jamie Adenuga which is sure to expand his ever increasing fanbase. Credit also has to be given to him for producing a high quality album without any major label backing. This now show's that Grime artists can 'go on thier own' if they put the time/money/effort in which puts paid to the genral understanding that you need a deal to forge a career. For this, JME should be seen as an example and role model for young up and coming artists to aspire to.

Overall Score - 8/10

JME - Famous? Out Now

2008-07-14T15:03:00.001-07:00

JME releases his first album today which has been stocked in HMV and Zavvi amongst others. This is his first official album after hugely successful mixtapes such as Shut Ya Muh and Poomplex. I haven't got round to getting a copy yet, but when I do I'll post a full review.

The tracks I'm most interested to hear are Go On My Own, Ghetto Superstar and Sun, Sea and Sand.

You can buy this from all major record stores but if you purchase this directly from ukrecordshop, you'll also get a free bonus cd as part of the bargain.

Lethal Bizzle @ Eastleigh Music Festival

2008-07-13T04:42:00.000-07:00

After performing at Glastonbury, Download, O2 (as well as filling in for Dizzee Rascal at Zoo8), Lethal brings Grime to a small town just outside of Southampton. It was a good performance with the Bizzle giving a decent showing in his 45 minute set. The only downside were the mic levels (which he obviously can't be blamed for) as at times, it was difficult to hear his lyrics.

Tracks performed were Mr, Bizzle Bizzle, Police On My Back, Pow!, It's a Shame and his take on the Grime/electro movement, Keys To My Bentley.

*Apologies for the quality of the video

Jay Sean - Stay (Boy Better Know Remix)

2008-07-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

Big collaboration, need I say more?

Kano Back On Grime

2008-07-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Regardless of what happened with his record label 679, it's great to see Kano back on Grime beats at last. This video is taken from a recent appearance on Logan Sama's show on Kiss FM (Monday nights 11 to 1am) and seems as if he has regained that hunger that once made him one of the UK's brightest new mc talents.

He reportedly lost a lot of hardcore Grime fans by being accused of 'leaving' the scene behind and reaching out to the mainstream. Can he regain the respect and enthusiasm of these fans? One for you to decide.

Click here to visit Kano's new blogspot (which is promoting his new mixtape 140 Grime Street) to watch the remainder of his appearance on Kiss.

Review - Lauren Mason - Keepin It Blonde

2008-07-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

1.Wanna Be Free
2.Miscommunication
3.What's A Girl To Do?
4.Blondie
5.Looking At Me
6.Enjoy Ya'self
7.Caught Me (Anything)
8.In Love With A Jamaican
9.Poison Ivy
10.Breathe Slow
11.Haterade
12.Female Hustler
13.Just Wanna Be Me
14.P.S

As mentioned in the previous blonde related post, this album was delayed by six months but having had a good listen since release, it seems to have been worth the wait...

The first thing that hits you is how professionally produced this album is. This is not to say you were to expect anything less but you feel this is something you could comfortably offer a non grime fan and be confident that they would enjoy it. However, it would be unfair to say this was purely a grime album with such songs as 'Poison Ivy' and the infectious 'Female Hustler' as the former gives you an impression that it would be welcome in a smokey Manhattan blues bar. On the whole, the music itself covers a range of genres which shows Ms Mason's versatility as an artist and provides the promise of someone who could potentially work outside the genre if chosen.

The style and perspective of the lyrics used are also a talking point with Mason not compromising her Essex heritage, which gives a distinctive sound and edge differing from similar female artists who are known to vocal grime music.

The viewpoint and attitude of Mason's music is also a plus with her showing herself as both confident and determined. It's to be applauded that she has kept her personality and not tread the path of the American R&B style singing which so many aspiring artists seem to follow these days.

Keepin It Blonde may not be to everyone's tastes, but offers a different style and stance within the grime scene. Due to the variety of music on offer this is without doubt something that could be offered to the mainstream. This point is justified given the public's current appetite for music of this kind (think Lilly Allen, Kate Nash, Adele etc).

Overall, this is a very strong first release for an artist who has been around for little more than a year. My only criticism would be that 'Don't Cry' and 'Hold Me' weren't included a possibly bonus tracks(?) as, along with 'Wanna be free' were generally the tracks that had people wanting to get their hands on. On a personal note, I would have liked to have seen the Drum n Bass orientated 'Sexy Boy' added as I feel this would have gone down nicely as a good summer/holiday song.

Tracks to look out for:

*Wanna Be Free feat. Wiley
*Haterade
*What's A Girl To Do?

Stand Out Track - Female Hustler

Keepin It Blonde is out now and available to buy via iTunes

Lauren Mason - Keepin It Blonde

2008-07-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

After a six month delay, Keepin It Blonde was finally released on Monday via Itunes. Surprisingly, she's considered a love or hate artist despite her obvious talent with critics expressing that in spite of her claims, she isn't 'real' grime. However, what people tend to forget is that grime is a predominantly male orientated scene in need of a more diverse artist base which then leads to a scene built that is stronger and more vibrant.

So I ask, if a female vocalist with a passion for grime comes along and wants to get involved in the scene, why reject or slate her? Surely she should be supported and encouraged. People moan that the scene isn't progressing or getting the attention/respect it deserves so could this be the attitude that is holding it back?

Something to think about.

As a fan of the whole scene, I've bought this in support so look out for a review of Keepin It Blonde soon.

www.myspace.com/laurenmason1

JME - Baggy Trousers remix

2008-07-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Whilst on the subject of the Adenuga brothers, take a quick a look and his myspace and you'll find a decent re-hash of MC Hammers 'classic' 'You Can't Touch This' nicely titled 'Fuck Dis Shit'. Good fun track leading up to his impending album release 'Famous' released on 14 July 2008.

To listen to the track go to:

http://www.myspace.com/jmeserious

Skepta - Rolex Sweep

2008-07-01T08:46:00.000-07:00

SKEPTA - ROLEX SWEEP

Whatever Wiley can do, Skepta feels he can equal, he's even got the man to him to help him out with the vocals. Anyways, good video which should be welcomed with open arms by the mainstream. Check out cameo's from Jay Sean, 1xtra's Mistajam and of course JME and unofficial Boy Better Know member Jammer.

Rolex Sweep is released digitally on 15 September 2008 and physically on 22 September 2008. Bit of a strange time for this release as you would assume that the rolex hype would have died down by then. However, you can't underestimate the power of holiday season.

In other Sweep related news, Coldplay's Chris Martin has jumped on the bandwagon with thier own version. To have a listen, visit www.myspace.com/skepta

Changes...

2008-06-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months I've been looking at redesigning and furthering chickenkormapilauandnaan. Unfortunatley, my website design knowledge only takes me so far. So, if anyone out there wants to help, comment on this post and I'll get back to you, all help and suggestions are welcome.

Also in the pipeline is a new section - Featured Artist. This will be a monthly article on an artist who is currently catching the attention of the grime industry, be it for good or bad reasons.

Look out for this soon and thanks for reading.

Wiley @ Glastonbury

2008-06-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

The self proclaimed 'King Of Radio 1' collaborates with electropop band Hot Chip to perform his smash Wearing My Rolex. Although the tune's not strictly grime, its a good look for the godfather.

Click here to watch.

This video also includes a performance from Dizzee Rascal performing his new track 'Dance With Me' and an up and coming rapper from New York called Jay Z, he looks alright.

Tinchy Stryder - Stryderman

2008-06-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

Yeah I know just another video link, I'll put together some articles when I can find the time. Anyways, another video from Tinchy who's definitely putting the work in right now.

J2K, Vortex, FlowDan & Alex Mills - Things That We Do

2008-05-31T16:46:00.000-07:00

New video from the Roll Deep members and affiliates. Look out for Alex Mills (who recently performed with Tricky on Later...with Jools Holland) as she is definitely one to watch.

Tubby T passes away

2008-05-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

Taken from MTV.co.uk.....

"Reggae star passes away after second stroke.
UK Garage and Reggae star, Tubby T has died.

After suffering a stroke in 2004 Tubby, real name Anthony Robinson, suffered a relapse and a second stroke.

His manager has told how he was hospitalised for seven months, but never fully recovered.

Tubby first came onto the scene in early 2000, when he teamed up Sticky to record “Tales of Da Hood”. Soon after he signed a deal with Virgin Records.

In 2005 Tubby T was awarded a UMA for most inspirational artist.

At this sad time, the thoughts of MTV go out to his Family."

To leave your condolences, visit www.myspace.com/tubbytiz

Grimestore - Sale

2008-05-24T16:50:00.000-07:00

Get yourself over to Grimestore.com for massive bargains on big grime albums/mixtapes.

Dizzee Rascal - Maths & English £2.99
Kano - London Town £1.99
Swindle - 140 Mixtape £1.99
Wretch 32 - Teachers Training Day £1.99

The image above says it all.

Timmy Mallet joins Boy Better Know

2008-05-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

Just watch, hilarious.

Wiley - Grimewave out today

2008-05-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

Wiley's latest offering is now on sale at www.avalanchemusichut.com. This is sure shift units off the back of his and Bless Beats' smash Wearin My Rolex.

Tracklisting:

1. Grime Wave ft Messy + Desperado

2. Local Lad

3. If Your Going Out Im Going Out To

4. Grime Kid

5. Its A Par ft Flo Dan/Tinchy Stryder/Messy

6. Badman Talking ft Flo Dan

7. Where You Gonna Run To

8. Real Life Not A Show ft Natalie White

9. Living In London ft Messy + Desperado

10. Fire Is Burning

11. Sky Is Falling ft Jookie Mundo

12. Its Only Right ft Flo Dan

Stand Out Tracks - If Your Going Out Im Going Out To & Sky Is Falling

Go get this.

If you haven't already seen the Wearing My Rolex video, click
here. Stay locked for the follow up 'Rolex Sweep'featuring Skepta out
23 June 2008.

The Meaning Of Grime?

2008-05-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a while I know but came across this piece today, is this an accurate reflection of grime? Decide for yourself.

Grime is a sub-genre of urban music which first emerged in London, England in the early 2000s, primarily a development of UK garage, dancehall, and hip hop.

Musical style

Grime music is typified by sparse and minimalist 2-step breakbeats, generally around 130 beats per minute. Stylistically, grime takes from many genres including UK Garage, dancehall and hip hop. It is often simplified as a type of convergence of speed and garage, and then slowed down. The lyrics and music combine futuristic electronic elements and dark, guttural bass lines, and are intriguing because they incorporate not only biographical but socio- and political commentary lyrics to the pumping base line. The rapped lyrics will often contain jabs at other musicians, and concerts are often organized as battles between competing performers, rather than simply performances. This dichotomy is also evidenced in other parts of the music, such as the freestyle rapping. Due to its experimental nature and diverse stylistic influences, artists involved in the grime scene initially resisted attempts to classify or pigeonhole the style, resulting in a range of different labels, including sublow, 8bar, and eskibeat. Grime is sometimes associated with dubstep, a similar but largely instrumental genre which also evolved from the early 2000s UK garage scene. According to Sasha Frere-Jones, writer for The New Yorker, grime has developed a fierce sound by "distilling" rhythms to a minimal style resulting in a choppy, off-center sound. Whereas hip hop is inherently dance music, the writer argues that "grime sounds as if it had been made for a boxing gym, one where the fighters have a lot of punching to do but not much room to move." Frere-Jones also states that grime has maintained a style unique from American hip-hop, with clear Jamaican and West Indies influences. Writer Hattie Collins supports Frere-Jones' s analysis by asserting that grime is "an amalgamation of UK Garage with a bit of drum'n'bass, a splash of punk and a touch of hip-hop thrown in for good measure."

Origins and development

Roll Deep, a well known British grime crew, performs at the 2006 Love Music Hate Racism festival.Grime emerged from the rave culture in the late 1990s. It exists largely in an informal economy: artists make their debuts on homemade DVDs on which they compete with other MCs. In many cases, rappers in the genre are teenagers living in areas around and near Bow, East London. The emergence of grime is intrinsically connected to its origins on UK pirate radio, with many performers honing their skills and achieving underground success before approaching the mainstream. This indicated the movement of UK Garage away from its house influences towards darker themes and sounds. Among the first tracks to be recognised as grime were "Eskimo" by Wiley and "Pulse X" by Musical Mob. Grime has been a way to get noticed for the poor multicultural inner city youths of the UK but with Gang culture always associated with it alot of society has not taken to it.Some grime recordings are produced independently, for example homemade DVDs of rap battles. Many such DVDs are recorded at the home of producer Jammer, head of record label Jahmek the World; homemade debut recordings are sold in record stores and barber shops and played by independent radio stations . An online profile of a Jammer mix album bills it as "a UK assault on hip-hop" and emphasizes its global appeal. Dizzee Rascal and Wiley, former and current members of Roll Deep respectively, were among the first to bring the genre to the attention of the mainstream media in 2003, with their albums Boy in Da Corner and Treddin' On Thin Ice respectively.

Dizzee Rascal particularly garnered broad critical and commercial acclaim, with Boy in Da Corner eventually winning the 2003 Mercury Music Prize. Grime has received a lot of exposure from television stations including Channel U, Logan Sama's show on London station Kiss FM and the BBC's youth oriented digital radio station 1Xtra.Grime however is still in many respects considered to be underground music. It exists in an informal economy where most artists make their debut's on DVDs that, like mixtapes are sold out of barbershops and make their way around the city. These artists also receive a lot of help from pirate radio stations which keep the public up to date with the music. Even though grime is very popular in the UK, many recording labels have yet acknowledge its presence as a genre that can compete in the global market. DJ Semtex, an A&R for Def Jam Recordings and also Dizzee Rascal's DJ, says that "the biggest conflict I have is with major labels because they still don’t get it." He says that they just don't understand the value of grime, and more so UK music a a whole as other countries do.As with many similar scenes around the world, the Grime scene has encountered some criticism, especially from government officials like Home Secretary David Blunkett who in 2003 called rap lyrics "appalling," or former Culture Secretary Kim Howells statement that grime artists were helping to create a culture "where killing is almost a fashion accessory." Howells went even deeper into the issue, making comments that many found to be "deeply racist," referring to popular artists and crews as "boasting macho idiot rappers." While the government offers one point of view, the artists and listeners offer another. In an article by Jeff Chang in The Village Voice, Dizzee Rascal’s often violent and sexual lyrics are heralded as “capturing, encapsulating, and preserving” the life that he and his peers live on the streets every day.

Hip Hop Crossover

Some argue that Grime, although related to hip hop is very different and British in its ways and content to avoid seeming parasitical . Some media labeled Black British Grime artist such as U.K. duo S.A.S. (Streets All Salute) have philosophically tied their struggle to that of African Americans in order to claim hip hop as their own since hip hop is seen as music that grew out of the struggle of urban African Americans. Using this philosophical ideal as a stage they have attempted to crossover into mainstream hip hop and attempt to access the U.S. hip hop market. Such artist self identify as hip hop/rap artist when dealing with the U.S. market although the media labeled them as Grime artist just by the mere fact that they are U.K. based. These artists thus have strayed from rapping over Grime beat patterns and preferred to rap over distinctly American hip hop beats. In this context they risk being labeled as sellouts in their home land of the U.K. At the same time, there are many connections between grime music and dancehall reggae, especially because reggae and hip hop are so interconnected. Because of England's position as a former colonial power, controlling much of the West Indies including Jamaica, and the long relationship between the U.K. and the U.S. it seems inevitable that through pre- and post-colonial migration patterns many of the producers and consumers of black music in London would be of Caribbean descent, or at least exposed to the culture as it has been transferred to the neighborhoods of London. Jeff Chang writes that U.K. music critic Kodwo Eshun felt black music had been "shackled," a clear reference to the legacy of colonialism and slavery that informs much of reggae, hip hop, and now even grime. This attests to the interconnection of all three styles of music, due to patterns of migration, forced or otherwise, and attempts at localization and authenticity. New York Times music critic Kelefa Sanneh notes that at many grime shows, MC's will interrupt tracks, asking the DJ to rewind the backing track or to go on to the next one. Sanneh notes, "This is a grime tradition borrowed from dancehall reggae" . On one grime blog, the author goes from critiquing grime artists to dancehall artists in the same page, crossing between British slang and Jamaican patois. When discussing grime artist Jammer, he notes "I love all these little fleeting connections between grime and reggae. When Goodz or Trim just drop a line into their lyrics about their Dads doing stuff with soundsystems or whatever it just reinforces the links which are self evident. “Lyric Maker, from England not Jamaica” indeed…" . These connections between grime, reggae, and hip hop are part and parcel of the historical connection between the U.K., U.S., and the West Indies. Musicians are slipping bits of history into the pot, and mixing up new and old.

International growth

Dizzee Rascal was the first grime artist to gain international acclaim after winning the Mercury Music Prize, though he received as much notice for his stab wounds as he did for his debut, Boy In Da Corner. It wasn't until the release of his third album, 2007's Maths + English, that Dizzee experienced the same kind of international acclaim. Dizzee was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize again, and despite the fact that the album wasn't released in the United States in 2007, it received high praise from international music critics, magazines, websites, and blogs, including Pitchfork Media, Rolling Stone, NME, and Rock Sound. The 2005 release of 679 Recordings' Run the Road compilation, showcased some of the most popular grime releases to that point, increasing the popularity and fame of grime and grime artists internationally. A particularly notable grime artist who has had success overseas is Lady Sovereign, who reached #1 on MTV's TRL, appeared on Late Show with David Letterman, and is now signed to Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records, though her music has departed considerably from her early output on pirate radio stations, and she does not define herself as a grime artist.[citation needed]Although grime is known as a truly unique musical style, it is not solely the beats that contribute to the sound and the international appeal. It is important to note that the MCs producing current grime music are overwhelmingly young as a group. The most well known names in the industry such as Dizzee Rascal, Kano, and Lady Sovereign began recording at twenty, sixteen, and seventeen years old respectively. This age bracket is important in the international growth of this musical style because it is youth making music for youth. There are more and more concerns as grime becomes more popular about it "selling out" and becoming too mainstream of a genre. It is a legit concern that its roots in immigrant and under-privileged struggle origins will be lost to corporate power, as some are beginning to see with the great success of popular artists such as Lady Sovereign and Dizzee Rascal. "I've seen a lot of people at the top end of music who have no idea what's going on in the street," says Lady Sovereign, expressing her concern that grime will lose its authenticity with its popularity.

Style

A very important artist in Grime music is Wiley. The producer and MC considers himself the Godfather of Grime. He was an important figure in the growth and exposure of Grime music. He released a pair of strong albums during the early 2000s -- 2004's "Treddin' on Thin Ice (XL)" and 2007's "Playtime Is Over (Big Dada)." The most famous artist of grime is Dizzee Rascal. Dizzee was the first of the emerging grime merchants to release an album in America. So far, Dizzee is the most successful Grime artist. Songs like "Fix Up, Look Sharp" and "Dream" make Dizzee Grimes first real star. Lady Sovereign is the Queen of Grime music. She is the first non-American female rapper to be signed to Def Jam and that is a huge accomplishment, not only for Lady Sovereign but for Grime music. Her first single "Love Me or Hate Me" became the first video by a British artist to reach number one on America's MTV Total Request Live. Lethal Bizzle (also known as Lethal B) has also made a large impact most notably for it's international success. '“Pow,” a song by Lethal B, and grime’s biggest hit to date, has made its way to New York, where it is currently being played on Hot 97 by the influential d.j. Funkmaster Flex. The American m.c.s Stat Quo and Pitbull have already recorded new verses for the track." Lethal B has a particularly interesting perspective on Grime and what has really attracted him to the genre and the movement. "It's also about freedom of speech - one of those genres where you say what you think, talking about real-life situations. And there was no rules - anybody could do it."

Female Artists in Grime

In addition to Lady Soverign--the internationally known Grime and Hip Hop artist (and incidentally the only white female artist to gain popularity in Grime)--there are several other female artists making a name for themselves in this genre, which like hip hop, has often been dominated by men. Other female artists include: Lady Fury, No Lay and producer, Mizz Beats. Lady Fury began her music career at the age of 16, and became famous for her "murk dem riddim." Now at age 19, she works with youth, encouraging the creativity of young MC's while continuing to perform and record her own music.

Sets & Clashes

In addition to the grime scene some of the artists sometimes made bars (lyrics) up about another artist. The artist will probably mention the barz in a Set or a clash. The artist who is provoked by the barz will reply to the one who provoked with a 'Slew Track' or just a ordinary set freestyle. If the artists agree they will have a clash and will spit barz about each other until one of them wins. Theres also wifey riddems where grime artists make tracks about the girls they love.

Skepta - In A Corner

2008-02-12T13:49:00.000-08:00

Massive video by Skepta, spot the cameo appearances....

Video Selector

2008-01-22T15:18:00.001-08:00

Here are some of the best grime videos from 2007 for your viewing pleasure. Grime needs to up it's video levels for 2008.

Ghetto - Top 3 Selected

Wretch 32 - Punctuation

Jammer, Slimting, Gritz, Double O, Badness - It's Alot

Lethal B - Bizzle Bizzle

Lethal B - Mr

Bless Beats - Hard Days Graft

2008-01-22T14:29:00.000-08:00

Bless Beats created himself a huge buzz when Wiley snapped up his track '16 Bar Rally' for his Tunnel Vision mixtape. Since then, he has produced tracks for Wileys own album 'Playtime Is Over' as well as Soulfood 1 & 3 and Frisco's 'Peng Food'. After initial problems with the pressing plant, the long awaited mixtape is out now. Includes collaborations with Wiley, Jammer, Flowdan and a couple of massive tracks by Lauren Mason (album coming soon). Stand out tracks are 'L Stone to E3, 'P.S', 'Spirit in the Beat' and 'Lemon Ting'.

Go buy this at www.avalanchemusichut.com

www.myspace.com/blessbeatsuk

Grime Wikipedia

2008-01-16T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's been under development for sometime and has been discussed at length on the RWD forum but finally, the Grime Wikipedia'Grimepedia' is up and running. This is a great resource for the uninitiated and also provides information and backgrounds on Grime artists, DJ's and Producers. It's plain to see that this site has a very big future, check it out at www.grimegenre.com or click the link below.

Eskiboy - The Movie

2007-12-13T15:03:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this, a documentary I've stumbled upon detailing the origins of Wiley's 'Eski' sound. This also takes a deeper look into the origins of grime and shows how it has expanded into what we listen to today.

Westwood/BBC Introducing...

2007-11-25T12:15:00.000-08:00

It is well renowned that Tim Westwood is not to every hip hop fans taste and is understandable to a certain extent. However, credit must be given to the man since joining 1xtra (alongside fellow Radio 1 veteran Trevor Nelson) in August. Rather than fall back on the safety net of his extensive US Hip Hop connections, Tim has jumped on the grime bandwagon at long last. Although despite initially describing Lethal B's 'Pow' as UK Hip hop, it seems that he has finally seen the light and I for one am happy for this. Since starting his Sunday night show on 1xtra, the majority of his playlist has been Grime with the obligatory US Hip Hop track thrown in for good measure. In my opinion, it can only be a good thing that such a big name dj is helping push the scene.

A good example of this is the recent guests that he's had up on his show. These include Roll Deep, Boy Better Know, Bashy and Chipmunk. Video's of these performances can be seen on Westwood's 'own' television channel,
Westwood TV.

He is also responsible for the 'urban' section of the BBC's latest new idea, Introducing... This involves inviting the cream of what Grime has to offer down to their Maida Vale studio for a one off performance. To watch the Roll Deep and Boy Better Know sets, just click on the videos below. If you want to view the Chipmunk set, just visit

http://www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/westwood/introducing

As you may have guessed, I am not a chipmunk fan regardless of his ability/potential.

Roll Deep

BBC Introducing - Roll Deep live from Maida Vale from BBC 1Xtra on Vimeo.

Boy Better Know

BBC Introducing - Boy Better Know live from Maida Vale from BBC 1Xtra on Vimeo.

Catch Westwood's show on 1xtra every Sunday 10pm - 12 midnight. To listen back to the latest show, click here

Video - T2 Heatbroken

2007-11-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

Biggest tune of the year, end of story.

Memories.......

2007-11-09T12:02:00.000-08:00

Just came across this post from Chantelle Fiddy's blog back in 2004, for me this was a time when grime was just pure excitement. Almost as if you knew a huge secret that was to be kept from millions.

"From underground to overground, it’s the flag we’re all going to be waving…
Since Dizzee Rascal clinched the Mercury Music Prize last year for ‘Boy In Da Corner’, and Wiley’s ‘Wot Do U Call It?’ landed, there’s been no escaping the great new genre debate.

Eski, 8 Bar, Sublow, Grime? While the latter seems to be the preferred choice (despite most ‘grime’ artists detesting the term), who wants to sit around discussing names when the music is as good as it is?

Grime is injecting the life back into what was becoming a dull UK music scene, awash with sub-standard R&B and hip hop. It’s the voice of inner city British youth that is been embraced by teens and adults alike. REAL soul food if you will.

The more obvious roots of grime can be traced way back to the days when Pay As U Go turned UK garage as we knew it on it’s head, DJ Slimzee even playing slowed down jungle so his boys could spit lyrics over it. Anthems such as the Wiley produced Know We set new trends. Even the likes of So Solids ‘Woah’, belong with grime’s seminal records. By 2002, a very definite new sound had begun filtering through. Now there are instrumentals, culmination’s of jittery, unpredictable, recondite beats and demoniac bass, some-what unexplainable backing tracks, the preferred choice of DJ’s, ravers and more noticeably, a new skool of MC’s.

Rather than imitate American flows and speech, these Cockney linguists (the majority of the top MC’s hailing from east London) are making a stand, accents exaggerating and switching between their favoured patois and street slang. They use their music as a weapon to gain a voice, a reflection of their world which we tend to ignore but that they don’t want to disregard anymore. It’s a revolt against meaningless, wasteful pop music. And It’s British through and through.

Championed by newer crews like N.A.S.T.Y and Roll Deep on radio stations such as Rinse and Déjà Vu, the scene has been bubbling and evolving. The soundtrack to London street life is now emanating throughout the nations cities, the rhythm of suburbia an indispensable fuel.

And It seems that with XL Recordings exporting Dizzee and Wiley to Top of The Pops territory, the major label pound signs have begun flashing. Kano, Roll Deep, Durrty Goodz (formerly known as Doogz) and Lady Sovereign are about to drop albums, and all, in some shape or form have ridden the grime wave. While the likes of Kano have worked their way up via radio and raves such as Sidewinder and Eskimo Dance, gaining fan bases and making street anthems, others, like Sovereign (and Shystie) ooze the influences but offer a more alternative take on the sound. Even rapper Klashnekoff is looking to get in the studio with heavy weight grime producers Terror Danjah and Jammer, a sight a lot of people never thought they’d see given the UK hip hop fraternities disdain for anything garage. But that’s one of grime’s most attractive qualities – an autonomous, professedly rule-free musical ideology.

So while we don’t know whether grime will be called grime by this time next year (G Hop anybody?)), there is one thing we can be pretty sure about – it’s got a colossal future and we can all be a part of it."

BBC Electric Proms 07

2007-10-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Check out performances from Ghetto, Durrty Goodz and Kano backed by a live orchestra. This shows what grime artists can do given the opportunity.

To watch the Ghetto set, click here

To watch the Durrty Goodz set, click here

Ny & Faith SFX - Passionfruit

2007-10-21T13:54:00.000-07:00

Faith SFX's debut singing single 'Passion Fruit' feat Ny and Maveric.
The beat was made with sounds purely from FaithSFX's mouth and arranged and built by S.K.I.T.Z BEATZ. Both of these artist's are ones to watch out for in 2008.

www.myspace.com/faithsfxbeatbox

Poll Results

2007-10-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Durrty Goodz - Axiom EP 43%

Wiley - Playtime Is Over 16%

Tinchy Stryder - Star In The Hood 10%

Ghetto - Ghetto Gospel 10%

Roll Deep - Rules and Regulations 8%

Skepta - Greatest Hits 8%

Kano - London Town 2%

So, an overwhelming winner in Durrty Goodz, follwed by Wiley. It may seem surprising of Skepta's results considering the positive response it recieved upon release back in September. However, somewhat unsurprising are Kano's results as in my opinion, was a dissapointing follow up to Home Sweet Home despite it not being a strictly grime album.

To buy Durrty Goodz - Axiom EP, visit www.avalanchemusichut.com or www.ukrecordshop.com. It is also available from HMV nationwide.

New Poll

2007-10-01T13:05:00.001-07:00

As promised, a new poll has been added to the blog. In the last one, it was established that Wiley is the current 'king' of Grime. Can he repeat this by taking the 'Best Mixtape/Album of the year'? Each one has been given a brief review/breakdown with it's own chickenkormapilauandnaan rating.

Wiley followed up his Tunnel Vision mixtapes with his second album. People within the scene questioned whether a major label would support an artist who produced an album which contained pure grime music, so credit goes to Big Dada for supporting the Godfather.

Tracks to look out for: No Qualms, Bow E3 and My Mistakes

Rating: 5/5

Durrty Goodz had been away from the scene for quite sometime so people were anxious to find in what direction Goodz had taken in his long awaited musical return. To put it simply, Goodz returned as if he had never been away with an EP containing nothing but nine tracks of pure fire.

Tracks to look out for: Keep Up, Take Back The Scene and Switching Songs II

Rating: 4/5

This is Ghetto's long awaited follow up to his debut mixtape '2000 & Life' and it doesn't disappoint. This is full of quality tracks from start to finish.

Tracks to look out for: Top 3 Selected Remix, CPB and Biker's Anthem

Rating: 4/5

By his own admission, this is not purely a grime album but deserves to be included due to Kano's self involvement within the scene (Top 3 Selected remix, Kano mixtape).

Tracks to look out for: Grime Mc, Buss It Up and This Is The Girl

Rating: 3/5

This is Tinchy's first album and follows the mixtapes I'm Back You Know and Lost And Found. Although predominately an underground hit, this album has the potential to also be a commercial success due to the use of female vocals and catchy hooks.

Tracks to look out for: Something About Your Smile, Breakaway and Stereotype

Rating: 4/5

Rules and Regulations is the follow up to the commercially successful 'In At The Deep End'. However, this is a more darker offering more suited to their style prior to this. It contains massive tracks produced by Target, Danny Weed and Wiley.

Tracks to look out for: Flame Grilled Whopper, Celebrate Dat and Babylon Burner

Rating: 5/5

After years of waiting, Skepta finally release his debut album entitled 'Greatest Hits'. Although described as a Grime album, it contains tracks which cover numerous genres of music and displays Skepta's diversity as an artist.

Tracks to look out for: In A Corner, Blood, Sweat and Tears and I'm Doing It Again (Duppy)

Rating: 4/5

Poll Results

2007-09-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

Wiley 54%

Ghetto 24%

Skepta 16%

Tinchy Stryder 4%

With Wiley taking over half the votes, it further confirms his claims that he is the current 'king' of grime. Thanks to all that voted, a new poll will follow soon.

Skepta 0 Wiley 1

2007-09-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

So after all the hype, I thought I'd go and grab Skepta's Greatest Hits. HMV: Sold out, Virgin: Sold out. Now I know this is a big mixtape but that was unexpected. Still, it bodes well for Skepta if the rest of HMV and Virgin are the same nationwide. Whilst I was in Virgin, Big Smoke magazine caught my eye with no other than Wiley plastered all over the cover. There's a good in depth interview with the Godfather himself on pages 36-39 which I have transcribed below (apologies if this is old news)....

"'I've made about £250,000, maybe more, out of the back of my car boot' he says with an air of nonchalance, shrugging and leaning back on the sofa. 'But its how much I'm worth. I'm not getting shitter at what I do. I'm getting better. All the money I've spent, I've cried about before, I can't cry anymore, it's how much I've shelled out. Now I've got to earn money back and not spend it so in 10 years I can say 'oh shit, I've been working for 10 years and still have money left from 2008'.

Wiley on his daughter

'When I first had her I thought 'Yes, get mature' but at first I got madder, out clubbing and drinking...but then you realise you don't want your child to grow up and hate you, your child to grow up and resent you, your child to grow up and be like 'Dad, where was you?' You don't want your child to do that and it makes you not as judging towards parents. Families are the only things that are constant, they bicker but they're blood and they'll always be a connection. I've got a big family, when you're growing up as a child, as long as you're being tended to and getting to play with your cousins you're happy but when you get into the real world is when you're not happy. Money makes me happy now."

Read the full interview in Big Smoke magazine, available now in Virgin Megastores nationwide.

Grime - A light at the end of the tunnel?

2007-09-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows grime gets a hell of a lot of unwarranted negative publicity. Many associate the music with guns, violence and crime but of course there is more to it than what is viewed from the surface. If people took time to listen to (insert mc name)'s mixtape/album, they would see that this is the complete opposite. The majority of the music displays a positive message or vibe which ironically, is the complete opposite to what 'listener A' would believe. But my point being, if this is the case, why is this so different to the US Hip Hop that has flooded the British charts in recent years? Rappers chatting about their ho's, cars and how much money they have. My opinion is that although we shouldn't ignore the US as a whole, we should be supporting our own. What I can't comprehend is how someone can sit there and listen to someone boast down the microphone about their riches and lifestyle. I feel that as a listener, you should be able to relate what your hearing. Don't get me wrong, I do like US Hip Hop and grew up on it but why would you want to know why Mims is hot or why 50 Cent is a P.I.M.P?.

People within the scene (including myself) can see how much musical talent we hold but there seems to be a wall between the artist and the record company. The issue is, if a person decides to buy an American artists album, it could potentially stop the next UK artists chance of a deal as they will find their path blocked as despite what many believe, there is a size to the current 'urban' market and we find ourselves literally swimming against the tide.

A good example of this is to visit HMV's 'urban' section and note how much unecessary competition our artists face. Thankfully, the internet has provided a welcome outlet for sales of grime mixtapes/albums so let's hope this grows.

As many of you will know, only a select few have broken through such as Kano, Dizzee, Roll Deep, Lethal B and to a certain extent Wiley. The labels are of an opinion that it's all too similar and maybe not diverse enough. They seem to want to pigeonhole this certain musical genre. Unfortunately for them, grime is fighting back, the likes of JME's label www.myspace.com/boybetterknow and Wiley's http://www.myspace.com/ESKIBEATRECORDINGS are the perfect example to show that you don't need a major backer to bring success. However, the next challenge for them and their labelmates is to find a way to appeal to a new audience and bring in more fans. With that said, during the summer, JME and Skepta (along with dj Maximum) played the BBC's new talent stage at Glastonbury and gained television exposure for their efforts.

To watch this, click here

These guys I feel, are a shining example for any new artist to follow who are finding support difficult to come by.

At this point, I have to give props to BBC 1xtra. Despite their recent upheaval of their dj lineup/show schedule, they continue to air the 100% Homegrown shows with Ras Kwame and Twin B respectively. Credit also has to go to Kiss FM's Logan Sama (he host's the UK's only legal grime show), and again 1Xtra dj's Target, DJ Q and Cameo

With support such as the above, grime can only become bigger and better and be as profitable and successful as the US Hip Hop industry has been over the past 15 years.

Ghetto - Ghetto Gospel

2007-09-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

I've got to say, I like Ghetto. There's a lot of talk about whether he's repping Grime or UK Hip Hop but I feel this is irrelevant. The main thing is that he is making good UK music. I bought Ghetto Gospel after hearing 'Top 3 selected' and the remix that followed. My opinion is that this mixtape was one of the best releases this year alongside Tinchy Stryders 'Star In The Hood', Wileys 'Playtime Is Over ' and Skeptas 'Greatest Hits '. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fully paid up member of the grime club but am an overall fan of real UK street music. I've followed Ghetto since his days in Nasty Crew and was genuinely excited when I first heard him spit on Kano's Typical me and Mic Check remix so I feel qualified enough to provide my opinion on his productions. His style is unique amongst many so called mc's within grime, hitting your eardrums with real venom, each syllable almost over pronounced as if he beleives your not getting the message. Some people see himself and The Movement as 'bait hip hop' but personally, I feel that he is the future of grime alongside Skepta, JME and Tinchy Stryder.

Check my video selector and click on Mercston's Good Old Days to see why I rate Ghetto so highly. Alternativley, goto www.myspace.com/ghettomc

One to watch - Lauren Mason

2007-09-23T05:42:00.000-07:00

Many of you will already heard of Lauren, as she has already worked with people like Wiley, Scorcher, Bless Beats and Target. Her self styled 'blondie grime' is providing a fresh perspective to the scene. As her myspace declares "Lauren writes simple songs about complex things. Phrases turn, emotions connect & melodies soar." and gives the same effect as when producer Davinche collaborates with such females as Sadie Ama and Katie Pearl, resulting in a soft edge to the harsh gritty beats. Hailing from Essex, this new artist has the potential to gain new fans to the scene, especially females (due to her tones and lyrical content) as many find that this is a predominatly male driven genre.

She also has her debut mixtape entitled "keepin it blonde" due around December time.

For more info, check www.myspace.com-laurenmason1

Clashing

2007-09-23T05:25:00.000-07:00

'Clashing' is an 8 mile style (hate referring to it as that) rap battle in which mc's uses their lyrics and flows against each other in competition. This is a well known way for an mc to gain hype as an artist (especially if they have an upcoming mixtape/DVD to promote). The king of clashes has to be the Godfather Wiley, but a lot of credit has to be given to producer/mc Jammer who arranged and recorded the majority of these clashes in his basement studio. Personally, I'm not a fan of clashes, I prefer to listen to the music that these clashes inspire.

Here are a few select ones to give you an idea and to make your own mind up...

Bashy v Demon

Wiley v Lethal B

Wiley v Kano

Video Selector

2007-09-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

Wiley - My Mistakes

Tinchy Stryder - Something about your smile

Mercston - Good Old Days

JME - Serious

Roll Deep - Celebrate

Tinchy Stryder - Underground