Jake of All Trades

Macklemore - "The Unplanned Mixtape"

2009-09-08T19:41:00.001-07:00

This weekend, after catching Macklemore's set at Bumbershoot, I copped the mixtape he put together for the festival. A mix of old and new songs, some released as features or on compilation albums, this 10 song mixtape features the artist at his finest. Starting off with the soon to be Seattle anthem "The Town", Macklemore is able to capture the essence of the hip hop community in the city. With the line "The skyline is etched in my veins, you can never put that out, no matter how much it rains" expresses his love for the Seattle that I assume many who are like me can relate to. The mixtape also presents two alter egos, the "terrorist fighter" Aberdeen and the dance sensation Raven Bowie on "And We Danced" which has the ability to truly become a pop hit. Aside from "The Town", my personal favorite is "Fallin", a very rough but genuine cut of the pains of like and depression. If you are a Macklemore fan I definitely recommend getting your hands on the project, and although it isn't an album, it is a very good piece of work to hold over fans until the Ryan Lewis projects are released.

Download "And We Danced" Produced by Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, Shno

Download "The Town" Produced by Scenic W/ Cuts by Vitamin D

Bumbershoot 09

2009-09-08T18:52:00.000-07:00

Every year I try to hit up Bumbershoot, on of the best music festivals there is located in the best city this nation has to offer. In the past I have been fortunate enough to catch Talib Kweli/Common, Matt Costa, an epic Blue Scholars/Kanye night, and Brother Ali among others. This year was no different, I made it out for both Sunday and Monday. Here are a few of the highlights, both good and bad:

The Good: The top three sets I saw were Macklemore, Raphael Saadiq and Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears.

Macklemore's set was legendary showmanship from an artist I have seen many times and have high expectations of. From his new song "The Town" which was capped off by the cities greatest gift (rain), to "Love Song" with Evan Roman, as well as the creative wit and humor in "Dance Song", Macklemore pulled out all the stops in proving once again why he reigns atop the city's hip hop scene.

Raphael Saadiq isn't someone who I have listened to a lot, but had heard good things and checked out part of his set, turned out to be one of the better choices of the weekend. Along with the throwback music came such a well rehearsed stage cadenced, with back up singers spinning and snapping on point made this one of the most professional sets I have seen. (Unfortunately I don't have pictures of this).

Last spring I read an article in SPIN about a funk band who was bringing back the music with their own style and attitude. Shortly after reading this I went to Best Buy and bought Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears "Tell 'Em What Your Name Is!" and have been a huge fan since. This act was incredibly with the big band feel and left me looking forward to seeing them again in an indoor venue.

Another awesome side note, I met Sarah Silverman!

The Bad (and UGLY):

I consider myself a longtime Common Market fan and follower, however after the set this weekend I was so disappointed and in awe of Ra Scion's performance I don't know if I will see them again. Looking like a cross between Jonnie Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean and David Bowie, Ra took the stage along with a band and group of actors simulating a period of slavery. Given their 2008 Tobacco Road Ep, I thought this could be interesting in a good way. However the show continued to display Ra singing soul music, his daughter dancing as a ballerina, him having the crowd sing happy birthday to her, and exiting the stage with 15 minutes remaining on his set time. As he left a good portion of the crowd stood asking one another, "What just happened?" Although at first I thought I would have enjoyed that time back, I would never have comprehended the stories had I missed it.

All in all it was a very good Bumbershoot weekend and just left me looking forward to next year. Here's a list of the performances I saw:

-Cold War Kids
-Dyme Def
-Common Market
-Spaceman & D. Black
-Raphael Saadiq
-Macklemore
-Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
-Janelle Monae
-Franz Ferdinand

RIP AHyppa's Basement

2009-08-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

Last night a crowd gathered to take part to memorialize a site that has played a large part in Tacoma's history, AHyppa's infamous basement, the home of Hoodstock '09. This sight has brought many people together, they laughed, they cried, they raged, they even made babies. Ok, maybe not the latter, but it is that amazing a location. On the night of August 29, 2009 that basement held it's final festivities, loaning out its floors to the performances of 10th and Commerce, EvergreenOne, J.Hill and John Crown.

AHyppa welcomed all with open arms, after hearing a calling from above, "If you text them, they will come."

The Hip-Hop/Rock/Funk/20 other genre band 10th and Commerce rocked a live set and got the party started off right. They even started filming "Fade to White" (lame hip-hop joke, but its my blog, so shut up!).

Then EvergreenOne graced the party with his presence to get everyone ragin'.

In the end it was an night of epic proportions that will long be remembered. AHyppa's basement will forever be a piece of Tacoma History and be remembered as the Northwest equivalent of Woodstock.

Yours truly and the man, the myth, the legend, AHyppa!

An Artist's Take On Downloading Music

2009-08-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Downloading music is often a very controversial subject. As a college student on a budget, I myself face the dilemna of wanting all this music, but not being able to afford it. However if I am truly a fan of the music and want to show appreciation, how can I not support the artists that make it? Brother Ali, one of my favorite artists, approaches the subject in a very personal and philosophical manner. He says that he supported Rakim once he became a fan, this is the way I view it. If an artists makes an album I truly appreciate and think is great, I will go out and buy it anyway. What about you?

2009 Song of the Year?

2009-08-26T22:49:00.000-07:00

2008 provided us with the mega combo of Kanye, Jay-Z, T.I. and Lil Wayne with the hit "Swagga Like Us". One half of that group has come back together to provide a song for Lebron's movie More Than A Game. Drake and Eminem join Wayne and Kanye in a song that in my opinion is murdered by Eminem and Drake (Who I'm still not sold on aside from hooks). I think this or D.O.A. may be the song of the year this far.

Download "Forever" complements of 2Dopeboyz

Soon to be Seattle's favorite sports team...

2009-08-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

After a day in which I listened to an uneducated radio show host (is that an oxymoron?) from OKC trash Seattle in an interview in which Nick Collison stood up for the city (interview here) I decided to get mast the negative and look forward to a wonderful future of Seattle sports, The Seattle Mist! Lingerie football has grown past the Lingerie Bowl on Super Bowl Sunday into a full grown league, in which teams will have a 4 game season. Don't know about you, but I will definitely be in attendance for the best thing to happen in women's sports since Brandi Chastain graced us with the sight of her sports bra.

Seattle Mist Website

This Sportsmanship Trend Has To End

2009-08-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

Coaches, NCAA back new effort

College football teams are planning to start the season off on a courteous note.

As part of a sportsmanship initiative, the American Football Coaches Association and NCAA are encouraging schools to arrange teamwide handshakes on the field before kickoff.

Grant Teaff, executive director of the AFCA and former Baylor coach, says college football players and teams are in a pressure-packed environment and that encouraging respect and sportsmanship is important.

"It is symbolic," Teaff told USA Today. "But it is, we think, a very important initiative."

Coaches are required to shake before and after games, but having players do it in an organized way is new. The handshake is only planned for the first week of games, and is not mandatory, though Teaff says all schools have been asked to participate.

"I'd be surprised if the high, high majority of our teams do not participate in this," Teaff said, according to USA Today.

Teaff said the AFCA and the NCAA would talk further to see if they should make the pregame handshake routine, though he expressed uncertainty over the feasibility of it.

"I know basketball shakes hands after games, but football has a lot larger numbers and it's kind of burdensome and cumbersome. .. to do that," Teaff said, according to the newspaper.

The NCAA's football rules committee, meanwhile, is weighing its own sportsmanship-related measure. Taunts or showboating by players in mid-play -- for instance, as a ball carrier is five or 10 yards from crossing the goal line -- could be treated as live-ball rather than dead-ball fouls, potentially wiping out scores in the same way holding and clipping do.

The panel considered the change for the coming season and passed, but will look at the issue again next year, say its secretary and rules editor, Rogers Redding.

"I think the sense is it would stop it in a heartbeat," says Redding, the Southeastern Conference's coordinator of football officials.

"The issue is not around celebrating.. .. We want the [the players] to play with enthusiasm and celebrate with their teammates and enjoy the game. The line gets crossed when there's taunting and inciting."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Slug+Murs+....Aesop Rock?!?!

2009-08-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

So it's official, Aesop Rock will produce the Felt 3 project, and to add to the excitement RSE dropped off a track. I still stand by my statement that I have never heard a sub-par Slug verse. Download below(Courtesy of 2dopeboyz.com).

Felt - "Protagonists"

Felt 3 Coming Soon?

2009-08-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

Felt, the mega group consisting of Slug and Murs, are coming together to release a third album with an unnamed producer. Now as long as this album is not overtaken by a major label and cremated like "Murs for President", then this could turn out to be one of the best of 2009.

Sonicsgate Trailer

2009-08-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

We all have been mourning the loss of a storied NBA franchise that was gifted by a money hungry coffee maker to a smug money hungry weasel from the south, however there may be more than meets the eyes. SONICSGATE investigates the underlying issues at hand in this crime while featuring local artists Jake One and Neema. Be on the lookout for the internet release October 12th of SONICSGATE at www.sonicsgate.org

Town Business

2009-08-13T00:04:00.000-07:00

Been listenin to this Fresh Espresso album for the last couple days (see review below) and it's makin me want more good NW hip hop. This year has already been blessed with projects by Grynch, Rockwell Powers and Fresh Espresso. With that in mind, here are some of the projects I'm most lookin forward to.

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - I've played the shit out of Language of My World over the last two years and am ready for another classic from (in my opinion) the top artist in Seattle.

Blue Scholars "OOF EP" - Another one of Seattle's heavyweights blessin us with some new music.

EvergreenOne & Todd Sykes - Don't sleep on the Tacoma music scene, its strong and a lot of that has to do with EvergreenOne. Dude can rock a set and I'm lookin forward to havin some recorded music. Heard some of the stuff at Urban Arts Festival and its crazy.

Fice - Another Tacoma dude who can really bring it, an album is long overdue but shit should be classic.

Spaceman - Been hearin for a long time that this dude is "Superstar material", hadn't heard a whole lot but saw him in Tacoma earlier this spring and really buyin into the buzz, lookin for some work to bump in the stereo.

This is just a short list of local shit, I'm sure I forgot a lot, but it should be a good rest of the year for the NW.

Fresh Espresso - "Glamour"

2009-08-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

I just got my hands on a copy of Glamour from Seattle duo Fresh Espresso (emcee Rik Rude and emcee/producer P Smoov). A few minutes into this album I felt as though I had stolen a CD from George Jetson. P Smoov's beats make you want to jump up and rage like your at an outer space frat party and the duo's lyrics display the party life of a rockstar as well as addressing more serious topics. The album contains "Lazerbeams" which is quickly becoming a Seattle favorite as well as my favorite "Diamond Pistols", described by Rude as the "kick drum anthem". The 14 song debut album is laced from beginning to end with potential hits.

While Fresh Espresso may be labeled "ghetto tech" there really is no category in which to place the group other than "good music". Whether your stuck in the car or tryin to make your party look like Animal House turn on Glamour and you won't be disappointed.

Rihanna and Kanye in the next Blade movie?

2009-08-07T13:13:00.001-07:00

Okay I'm lyin, but check out this photoshoot for Jay's new single Run This Town. Jay looks fresh as ever, but what the hell are the other two doin?

(Photo courtesy of 2dopeboyz)

The King Comes Up Short

2009-08-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

MJ vs. Kobe vs. Lebron

People can argue between these three in different areas, but marketing wise, MJ will always be far above, and with the release of Lebron's new shoe today, its obvious. These guys need to step up their game and get more involved like Jordan is, because these kicks do not look like they will be cult phenomenom's.

The Lebron VII (Pictures courtesy of Hypebeast)

Today Was A Good Day

2009-08-07T10:58:00.001-07:00

Nike is a marketing genius, no debate at all. This P-Rod ad came out a few weeks ago, but I still can't get over how smart it is and how well shot it is, not to mention P-Rod keeps bringin out dope shoes (my favorites are below).

Who doesn't wanna look Star Trek?

2009-08-07T10:51:00.000-07:00

I spent a few months in Italy, and to be honest, all the talk about their fashion is a little stretched. I never saw a lot of outlandish style, mostly basic black outfits. But I never saw anything like this, and to be honest, not even Kanye could rock these...I'm still kinda feelin em tho.

Martin Margiela L’incognito Sunglasses

Mixtapes of the Year (Thus Far)

2009-08-05T19:01:00.001-07:00

I saw BET did a ranking of the mixtapes this year already, but like a lot of things they do (aside from putting Smart Guy back on TV!) it was whack. So I'm going to lay down my mixtape expertise of you. Here are my top mixtapes of 09:

1. B.o.B/Bobby Ray "B.o.B vs. Bobby Ray"

Now we've seen this type of title attempted before, most famously in T.I. vs. T.I.P, but this mixtape provides two halves of significantly different styles. B.o.B's half brings a more street rap attitude, while Bobby Ray brings slower tracks with more effects added in and more vocally intense. This mixtape will not disappoint.

2. Pac Div "Church League Champions"

This group could really bring back the West Coast style and attitude that have been missing for too long. They have Murs type lyrical talent with Cool Kids style beats. This mixtape is solid top to bottom, with a hit single in "Mayor" and its tough to miss the star potential in "For You".

3. Drake "So Far Gone"

Putting the kid sensation of Degrassi this low could surprise people, and it's not to dismiss Drake, however I feel there are areas of his mixtape that drop off. Also a little disappointing in a track like "Say What's Real" when I've heard Brainstorm from Seattle drop the Kanye beat better (here's the link) There is no denying Drake's ability to apply great lyrical talent in the production of a pop hit, he will stay at the top of the charts for a while.

4. Quest "Broken Headphones"

A newer mixtape on the scene, but in my opinion it stands with the rest already. Quest's lyrics combine obvious Jay-Z and Lupe influences but still implies personality. The song "Wait" shows potential for a long term hit, and "A Little More Time" displays the grind of an artist workin to make it while dealin with everyday life. Can't wait for Quest to drop a full album, I think he will be one of the top in the game.

5. The Cool Kids "Gone Fishing"

Not much to say about this one, The Cool Kids have a great sound but I don't see much growth from "The Bake Sale", so I struggle to think of this as an amazing mixtape.

Honorable Mention: Big Sean "UKNOWBIGSEAN"

Another G.O.O.D music artist with a good mixtape, but just didn't deliver anything that stuck with me. "Desire, Want & Need" is a catchy song that could make it mainstream.

"Maybe you can have it all"

2009-08-04T12:39:00.001-07:00

Between working for the Seahawks at training camp and watching a ton of Entourage, I decided its about time I become famous. I'm completely willing to turn in my notebooks and #2 pencils for sleeping in and partying with celebrities. The only thing now is how do I get there?

Option 1: Clothing Designer

If all of you aren't aware I am developing into a serviceable clothing designer, having produced a line called Emerald Theory and now looking to drop Reign Supreme in the fall (Sample below). Now this would be amazing although I do see a lot of competition, live in a region of the country that is far behind the fashion scene and possess a slight lack of funds at the moment (damn you college).

Option 2: Start Rapping

If Asher Roth can make it why can't I?

Option 3: Become friends with a celebrity

Now I'm no Seth Rogan (Funny People blows by the way), but I think I'm a decently funny guy with a good personality. Upside of this plan is I meet Jessica Alba and she falls in love with men...or the only celebrities that will hang out with me are the guys from Creed and I am a groupie of the worst band on the face of the earth.

Option 4: Become a Youtube sensation

Now I've been contemplating this for a while with a few ideas. I could make a sports show with predictions and analysis that would prove ESPN hires jerkoffs from Ivy League schools that possess the "I didn't kiss a girl until I was 30 but am sort of funny and will drive you home after you hook up with my roommate" look and don't know jack about sports. On the other hand I also considered going to meet celebrities and interviewing them about the questions no reporter will ask, for example "Mr. Bryant, how did Shaq's ass taste?" or "Kanye, how come while being a fashion connoisseur and egomaniac, we never see you with a girl unless you pay her to be in your video? Sending a message to us?" No doubt in my mind people would watch this.

So what will it take for me to be famous? I guess you'll see in 5 years when my face is on every tabloid. Peace out you little people.

NBA Mock Draft

2009-06-24T20:19:00.001-07:00

Night before the NBA draft, Chris Ford is annoying so I'm puttin my GM hat on and breakin it down.

1. LA Clippers: F Blake Griffin - Oklahoma

Griffin is a solid pick, the only one worthy to be picked at this spot, still i see him being a good player, however not an amazing player. Expect him to still be a constant All-Star.

2. Memphis Grizzlies: C Hasheem Thabeet - UConn

After number one, there is a large clump of solid/decent players. Thabeet will be a solid shot blocker if that is what Memphis is looking to pay for, but will not provide more than that. He is a poor man's Dikembe Mutombo, Dikembe had more offensive talent as well as quicker feet.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder: PG Ricky Rubio - Europe

I put Rubio here mainly because of the GM making the pick. While Sam Presti usually finds international gems in the later parts of the draft, Rubio fits the mold of a guy that Presti's mentor selected, Manu Ginobli. While not the scorer that Ginobli is, Rubio comes into a young team that does not need a lot of scoring but brings great excitement as well as experience as a pro. The question here is what happens to Westbrook.

4. Sacramento Kings: PG Stephen Curry - Davidson

While there is talk about Tyreke Evans and Jonny Flynn here, I think the Kings could surprise some people and take the scoring power of Curry. While I doubt he will be labeled a great player, there is no questioning his scoring ability. I still think the Kings should take a pure PG (eg Flynn), but the Maloofs have an interesting way of building teams.

5. Minnesota T-Wolves: PG Tyreke Evans - Memphis

I make this pick (and the next) as the team is here for now, however don't be surprised to see the Wolves do all they can to get either Rubio or Thabeet at the #2 or #3. A playmaker PG could replace Foye and be a huge upgrade over Sebastian Telfair.

6. Minnesota T-Wolves: SG James Harden - Arizona St.

While I'm tempted to put Jordan Hill here, it doesn't make sense with Al Jefferson there, so I can see Minnesota go after a good scorer who could develop into what they hoped Randy Foye had.

7. Golden State Warriors: PG Jonny Flynn - Syracuse

If Flynn falls to Golden State it would be a great fit. In my opinion Flynn has the ability to be the best player in this draft. A pure PG who shows great heart and leadership could be an immediate help to this team.

8. New York Knicks: PF Jordan Hill - Arizona

The Knicks don't have any strengths...none. At this point they must take the best player, and with David Lee possibly running away this summer, Hill is a player with great potential but still needs a lot of work. This pick is impossible to guess, but this is my best idea.

9. Toronto Raptors: PG Jrue Holiday - UCLA

Holiday provides Toronto with a big PG to try and complement Chris Bosh next year, another team with a lot of holes but Holiday may be too good to pass up.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: PG Brandon Jennings - Europe

With Sessions likely to be the odd man out this offseason the bucks are in need of a PG. Jennings has great upside, and if he can play nearly as well as he can talk himself up, he should have a decent career.

11. New Jersey Nets: SG Terrance Williams - Louisville

Another stud pick, this guys could be one of the stars of this draft. With that long wingspan and incredible athleticism Williams should be the pick for a Nets team looking for a direction.

12. Charlotte Bobcats: SG Gerald Henderson - Duke

Larry Brown appears to be in love with Henderson who is a freak athlete. It appears this pick could be locked in unless Williams falls here.

13. Indiana Pacers: PG Eric Maynor - VCU

Maynor is my third pick to be a stud in this draft. A great PG who many fans may not have seen, but is an explosive, great leader.

14. Phoenix Suns: SG DeMar DeRozan - USC

Many don't expect to see DeRozan to fall this far but it doesn't appear that he has had impressive workouts and not a great Freshman year. This should be the end of his fall.

15. Detroit Pistons: SF Earl Clark - Louisville

Earl Clark could not ask for a better fit, a guy with great intangibles just appears to be a Piston player. Hard nosed, if he can show consistency he will be a good player for years to come.

16. Chicago Bulls: C BJ Mullens - Ohio State

It seems Ohio St. keeps popping out these big man products. While the Bulls may need to replace Ben Gordon this offseason, Mullens brings size and intensity to add to the frontline wiht Noah, and Tyrus Thomas who may soon be shipped out.

17. Philadelphia 76ers: PG Ty Lawson - UNC

While I think Philly is desperately hoping for Maynor to fall here, they will happily settle for Lawson who is strong to the hoop as well as a good shooter at over 40% from three.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves: PF DeJuan Blair - Pitt.

T-wolves will likely attempt to use this pick to get the 2 or 3, they will also hope BJ Mullens falls. If he goes to Chicago, I think they get Blair to help add toughness to the front line alongside Kevin Love.

19. Atlanta Hawks: PG Jeff Teague - Wake Forest

A quick athletic guard makes sense on a team that is already freakishly athletic and is the last of the top PG group left.

20. Utah Jazz: PF Tyler Hansbrough - UNC

Do he and Jerry Sloan not seem like a match made in heaven? Hansbrough will be a solid pro and will silence many of the critics saying that he is too small to make it.

21. New Orleans Hornets: SF Austin Daye - Gonzaga

Daye has constantly been touted as a player with great upside, however at some point he must display it. He has "too high of a ceiling" to fall past here.

22. Portland Trailblazers: SF Omri Casspi - Israel

While Casspi is talented, talent is not the reason for the pick. Portland doesn't have another roster spot for a rookie and would rather keep the money and Casspi in Israel.

23. Sacramento Kings: SF Sam Young - Pitt.

The Kings address PG need earlier and get Young, a good scorer who is able to step in immediately and contribute.

24. Dallas Mavericks: PG Nick Calathes - Florida

While some may find this surprising, remember that Mark Cuban is anything but predictable. Calathes fills a PG need where Darren Collison is not the playmaker type that the Mavs target.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder: SF. DaJuan Summers - Georgetown

With no solid centers available, the Thunder target depth and look no further than Jeff Green's college teammate. Also look at Toney Douglas here.

26. Chicago Bulls: SG Toney Douglas - Florida State

An guy capable of playing a small role immediately could provide some scoring ability to cushion the possible loss of Ben Gordon.

27. Memphis Grizzlies: PG Darren Collison - UCLA

The Griz can add some depth to back up Mike Conley Jr at the point.

28. Minnesota Timberwolves: SF Jonas Jerebko - Sweden

While another likely trade asset, it makes sense to draft a guy and leave him overseas, it is very unlikely they can keep 4 rookies on the roster.

29. LA Lakers: SG Wayne Ellington - UNC

A good shooter off the bench to fill the role that Sasha proved incapable of filling.

30. Cleveland Cavs: PF Derrick Brown - Xavier

While Brown is a little small (6'9"), he is one of the strongest players on the draft and can rebound, something that many Cavs seemed unfamiliar with this postseason.

These are just my thoughts, feel free to let me know what you think.

The cost of a King

2009-06-14T10:44:00.001-07:00

The rumors of 2010 are already swirling after Lebron's pre-finals playoff exit, and Cleveland is doing all that they can to remain part of the King's court. The question is what will they do to show Lebron they are more committed than surrounding him with players who crumbled like a 116-win Mariners team in the playoffs. And now for the grand idea of Cleveland: the entrance of SHAQ DIESEL!!!

Now in my opinion this is a bigger joke than Shaq's acting career(aside from Blue Chips). Once upon a time this would have been a bigger dream than the Olsen Twins showing up at your doorstep. But the fact is, Shaq is now 37 and runs as fast as Hellen Keller. It's tough to imagine Lebron putting the fast break at a halt for the big guy to get into the paint. Once Shaq is there, can he still be considered a force against Dwight Howard in seven consecutive games? I highly doubt it, with slow feet and Dwight's continued growth, Dwight will quickly send Shaq to the bench.

Don't take my message the wrong way, I'm not saying Lebron will be putting on his Brooklyn Nets jersey in 2010, but bringing in Shaq for a year will not be what makes the King keep his kingdom in place. Step 1 seems clear though, Mike Brown must be gone. No coach who cannot get his players to rotate on defense is worthy of a position as anything but Lebron's jester(and possibly carrying his moving boxes in the near future).

Black Star Is Back!

2009-06-03T15:24:00.000-07:00

I keep up on music releases daily, and today I was greeted with a nice surprise...the return of the group Black Star, a collaboration of Talib Kweli and Mos Def. Eleven years after their premier album, the duo has made a track that will be featured on Mos Def's upcoming album Ecstatic. This song is pretty good and only gets me even more anxious for their 2010 return of Black Star on an entire album. (Courtesy of 2dopeboyz)

Black Star - History

For Sale: Ad Space on Tom Brady's Chest?

2009-06-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

If you all didn't know, America is in a bit of a financial crisis...to quote Seth Rogan "I'm not poor, I just eat a lot of pasta." During these tough times no one is exempt, not even the NFL.

Despite being the second most popular sport in America right now, the NFL is still looking for any opportunities to increase revenue. With Commissioner Roger Goodell taking a $6 million annual pay cut, he has lead the league to making a decision to place advertisements on NFL practice jerseys. This choice left me torn in my opinion, on one side it is a smart financial move, however there is so much to risk with the purity of what some may consider the TRUE American pastime.

I decided that I'm fine with the practice jerseys, but this needs to end there. While revenues would be nice in the season, my inner football historian outways my business man in thinking ads on game jerseys could really deteriorate the rich history of the NFL.

DO YOUR JOB!!!

2009-05-17T14:53:00.001-07:00

These NBA playoffs have been the rebirth of solid basketball, but there is one thing that is just killing me. Year after year there is someone who asks "Do the coaches really do anything? Aren't the superstars just runnin things?" and for a long time I've always stood up for the coaches. Basketball is an intricate game and coaches gameplans provide so much more than the stars can provide on the court...but this new in game interview thing?

I know everyone watching games at home wants as much of an inside access as possible. You buy ESPN Insider access, you watch "Kobe Doin Work", but there is no need for these coaches to take time out of a valuable timeout to talk to a reporter. There is plenty of time for that before, at halftime, or after the game. As a coach you're being paid to do a job, and that does not include talking to the supermodel drone being directed on what questions to ask through an earpiece by a fat dude in the studio. I would hope Phil "Stick it to the man" Jackson of all people would stick to the integrity of the game and tell them to go sit on the microphone.

If you get paid to do a job you should not let distractions interfere, the media (and this is in all sports) have taken it too far.

The NBA, where COACHING needs to happen.

NBA Playoffs

2009-05-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

So its deep into the second round of the playoffs and it looks as though it will be the NBA's dream finals: Kobe vs. Lebron. Just a couple thoughts on what I've seen so far:

- The Blazers may have not put up a huge fight, but they just made young mistakes and showed that they are going to be a playoff team for years to come.

- Jamal Crawford. Stephon Marbury. Tracy McGrady. What do these three have in common? Their teams are always better without them and none will leave this league with a ring on their finger.

- The NBA is killing the game of basketball with all of these "flagrant 2s" and ejections. I'll admit Derek Fisher deserved to get ejected (and a standing O for nailing Scola), but Ron Artest did not deserve that flagrant last night. In a year when the NBA is finally making a comeback with fans thanks to great matchups, they need to just let the players play like the good old days.

There's just a few thoughts, now who you got winning it all? I'll take Lakeshow in 6 over Lebron.

Nick Cannon is gunna take out Eminem?

2009-05-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

After hearing Eminem's new album, there was sure to be a backlash. Here comes more O'Reilly? Maybe Christopher Reeves family? But to my surprise it is the all around mediocre talented Nick Cannon?

It might be honorable for Nick to stand up for his sugar momma Mariah, but lets be honest, is he the right person to be throwing threats at Eminem? Enough on my input, just had to post this because it gave me a good laugh. Dude is Wild-n-Out (on a corny joke level).

Here is Nick Cannon's respone to Eminem's "Bagpipes from Baghdad".

Album Review: Relapse

2009-05-08T11:25:00.001-07:00

After the release of "Crack A Bottle" and "We Made You", the jury was out on whether the once most diabolical villain in entertainment had lost all inspiration for his work. Now having heard Eminem's entire "Relapse" Album, Slim Shady is back...kind of. While they questioning of Eminem's mental state comes back into play with a song in which he talks about a step-father sexually assaulting his son ("Insane") and another in which he states he will kill everyone ("3AM"), Eminem's lyrical content was back to his old self. The only thing holding back this album is a foreign-cartoon sounding voice that makes all of these songs sound like a joke.

There are a few highlights to this album such as "Insane", "3AM", however the best song on the album is "Underground" the last song on the album. The verses are vintage Em, and despite having an overly cluttered hook, it concludes the album and leaves hope for all of the Dr.Dre/Eminem believers, that there is still magic left for the duo and that second album releasing this year could actually be back to vintage Eminem.

1. "Dr. West" (skit) 3.5/5
2. "3 A.M." 4/5 - Along with the video this song is what brought back Slim Shady's craziness.
3. "My Mom" 4/5 - Still has a funny voice, but I can't help but love Em's hate for his mom.
4. "Insane" 4/5 - Step father sexually assaulting Eminem? In a normal voice? May be the best or second best song.
5. "Bagpipes From Baghdad" 3.5/5 - Solid lyrically but the voice kills him, kind of an annoying hook too.
6. "Hello" 4/5 - Aside from a subpar rhyme scheme in the first verse a solid song from Em.
7. "Tonya" (skit)
8. "Same Song & Dance" 3/5 - Another song with the cartoon voice, not awful but just kind of a boring song.
9. "We Made You" 2.5/5 - Not a fan of the Eminem comedy, it doesn't seem natural.
10. "Medicine Ball" 3/5 - Lyrics are sub-par and the hook sounds like a Weird Al song.
11. "Paul" (skit)
12. "Stay Wide Awake" 4/5 - A good vibe for Em in a slowed down beat by Dre.
13. "Old Time's Sake" (featuring Dr. Dre) 3.5/5 - It's tough to give a Dre/Eminem song this low of a rating, but Dre's rhyme patter is awful.
14. "Must Be the Ganja" 3.5/5 - The best of Eminem's goofy songs, who doen't need a song about America's drug.
15. "Mr. Mathers"(Skit)
16. "Déjà Vu" 3.75/5 - Another good slow Eminem vibe song.
17. "Beautiful" 4/5 - Eminem gets personal on a song that brings back passion to his music, hook is a little annoying though.
18. "Crack a Bottle" (featuring Dr. Dre and 50 Cent) 3/5 - Needs to drop the funny act.
19. "Steve Berman" (skit)
20. "Underground/ Ken Kaniff" 4.5/5 - Best song on the album, only thing setting it back is cluttered hook.

Rating: 3.75/5

Album Review: Kids In the Back

2009-05-07T22:09:00.001-07:00

Haven't posted anything in a while (school is always interrupting the important stuff). Recently got a hold of a new local album, "Kids in the Back" by Rockwell Powers and producer Ill Pill.

Having heard Rockwell (formerly Understatement) over the last two years I was looking forward to the mix of this Tacoma emcee and an up and coming Seattle producer, and the duo did not disappoint. This album starts out up beat with the title track and takes you out with a few mellow, passionate tracks of an artist telling his story in "Faith" and "Late Believers". Rockwell brings something to the table for all listeners, displaying talent in a more hardcore manner with the song "Hoodied Up" which could emerge as Tacoma's street anthem as Eminem's "8 Mile" was for Detroit. My personal favorite track on the album is "Faith" featuring Florida artist Peter Baldwin whose soulful singing on the hook helps display the personal pain and struggles with spirituality of Rockwell.

Along with the vocals UW student Ill Pill's diversity on this album provides a look into a producer who will surely be a staple in the Northwest hip-hop scene for years to come. This album looks to be another building block in the careers of two bright spots in the Seattle and Tacoma hip hop communities and expect to see much more from the two during the rest of 2009.

Check out the artists at myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/rockwellpowers

http://www.myspace.com/illpillmusic

Also buy the album at http://www.homeskilletrecords.com

NFL Draft: Picks Analysis

2009-04-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

Pick by Pick Analysis of the NFL Draft and Grade:

1. Detroit Lions - QB Matt Stafford (B-)

A player who was build up too high and will not live up to his expectations. Now not all of this can be blamed on him, it can be attributed to the team he fell to. The Detroit Lions have put Stafford into the position of many QB's before him (see Joey Harrington, David Carr, ect). Stafford has some quality physical attributes, but the struggles that he will face behind a poor offensive line will damage an already mentally instable player. He does not have the mental toughness of a Peyton Manning to take his hits and keep making the throws.

2. St. Louis Rams - OT Jason Smith (B)

A team with too many holes to really make a big leap, this was the logical pick. The only concerns I have is that this converted Tight End does not have the knowledge as a blocker to handle NFL caliber defensive ends.

3. Kansas City Chiefs - DE Tyson Jackson (C)

Scott Pioli was part of the draft genious in New England, but this reach may backfire. Jackson will be a solid starter, however his rise from being a mid teens prospect to the number three pick in the past 24 hours makes it seem as though Kansas City overpaid $20 million to get him. Getting a system player does not justify that much money.

4. Seattle Seahawks - OLB Aaron Curry (B+)

The top player in this draft will fit nicely. Although Seattle would have been the ideal situation for Mark Sanchez, Curry will fit in and make an impact immediately. The issue with this pick now is the amount of money put into a Linebacker group that already hasn't signed Leroy Hill.

5. NY Jets (From Cleveland) - QB Mark Sanchez (B+)

I like the pick for the pure fact that they did not risk too much to move up (a 2nd round pick and a few players to clear cap room). Sanchez is going to be the best QB prospect from this or next years drafts. The only concern is he could use a year or two of tutoring before being thrown into the fire, and Kellen Clemons is not a prime candidate for a mentor. If they can bring him along slowly, this will develope into a great pick for a mentally and physically strong player with all of the intangibles.

6. Cincinatti Bengals - OT Andre Smith (B+)

If not for some bad PR decisions by Smith (such as skipping out early on the combine), Smith would have been seen as a high prospect anyway. While this is viewed as a reach by analysts, this was a great pick by the Bengals, although there are concerns about the teams player personel department as seen currently with Chad Johnson (I refuse to call him Chad Ocho Cinco).

7. Oakland Raiders - WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (D)

Another example of why Al Davis is no longer helping the Raiders to suceed. Over the last seven years Jones continually drafts based on the 40-yard dash times, an overated stat that is understood by all other owners. The Maryland reciever has a bad case of the drops and looks to be the second coming of Koren Robinson. The ability to skip over Michael Crabtree is going to haunt this frachise as it moves forward with Bey and their QB Jamarcus Russell (Who also was drafted based on physical makeup).

8. Jacksonville Jaguars - OT Eugene Monroe (B)

A solid tackle who will be an upgrade over free agent loss Khalif Barnes, however past knee injuries raise concerns over the longevity of this pick. This is a team who two years ago was considered a Super Bowl contender and if Monroe can block for David Garrard, the addition of Torry Holt could help them make a big leap forward.

9. Green Bay Packers - DT B.J. Raji (B+)

Raji is an animal and will nicely fill the hole created by the loss of Colin Cole to the Seahawks. This is a future pro bowler and will be a starter for year to come.

10. San Francisco 49ers - WR Michael Crabtree (A/B)

The reason the grade is split is that I believe Crabtree at this pick is a great value. In my opinion you get the second best prospect for far less money. However at the end of the day the question is, "How much better is this team with the addition of Crabtree?" The answer to this is slightly improved, he has the ability to develope into a Larry Fitzgerald caliber receiver, however with their line being adequate at best and their QB's having 3rd string talent, he may not have the opportunity to showcase his talent. His position is much like Andre Johnson in Houston, if he is patient he may become a star, however it can't be forecasted how patient he will be.

11. Buffalo Bills - DE Aaron Maybin (A-)

In my opinion this could turn out to be a Hall of Fame pick. While I do believe the Bills could have traded to get more picks, Maybin is a great end with a motor and a fire for the game. While he does not wow people, could turn out to be a Patrick Kerney type player. Will be a starter for many year.

12. Denver Broncos - RB Knowshon Moreno (B+)

While many don't think of the Broncos as a team to draft a running back this high, people must understand the Shanahan era is over. Moreno is a great back and if put in a good scheme he could be an all star, however with the lack of a quarterback Denver must be careful not to put too much of a load on this young man's back.

13. Washington Redskins - DE Brian Orakpo (A-)

Another great end with good quickness, this grade might be a B if not for the defensive line that they have put together this offseason, pairing Orakpo with Albert Haynseworth. This defense is getting scary and will be a force to be reckoned with.

14. New Orleans Saints - CB Malcolm Jenkins (B)

Not sold on Jenkins as a safety, I think he will be best suited as a corner. The jury will be out on this pick until his position is chosen.

15. Houston Texans - OLB Brian Cushing (A)

A young man outshadowed by the vibrant character of fellow Trojan Rey Maualuga, Cushing provides just another solid member of a young defense featuring Mario Williams, Demeco Ryans and Amobi Okoye. This team will soon be a constant in the AFC playoffs.

16. San Diego Chargers - DE Larry English (C)

The Chargers need injury insurance, however this may not have been the answer. A DE with injury concerns and the lack of speed for English in a normaly fast defense leaves many questioning this pick.

17. Tampa Bay Bucs - QB Josh Freeman (D)

Tampa has long looked for an answer to compliment their stingy defense, but Freeman may not be the guy. With a defense aging they will look for more from the offense, and without Jeff Garcia they do need a QB. Freeman to me is a Jamarcus Russell type pick, a guy who looks good on paper but can't be the leader of a team. Tampa Bay will be either drafting or signing a free agent QB within the next three years.

18. Denver Broncos - DE Robert Ayers (B)

A solit motor guy, may have been the best value for them, this team has a lot of holes to fill in a defense that fell apart late last year.

19. Philadelphia Eagles - WR Jeremy Macklin (B)

Macklin is a talented receiver and I was very high oin him before the draft, however this pick doesn't make sense to me. Didn't they draft the same player last year with DeSean Jackson? I just don't see Philly making moves to really win it all.

20. Detroit Lions - TE Brandon Pettigrew (C)

Pettigrew is the best TE prospect in the draft, however this is a draft that did not have a Round 1 worthy TE such as years past with guys like Vernon Davis and Greg Olson. Drafting a TE is a good call for a team with little protection for their QB, just a reach on the value of the player here.

21. Cleveland Browns - C Alex Mack (B)

Real strong center who can block anyone. Will be the anchor of this line for years to come.

22. Minnesota Vikings - WR Percy Harvin (B-)

Not a great pick for the Vikings here. A team that is a quarteback away from a Super Bowl, this pick does not improve them. Its tough to take Harvin here with a solid posession receiver like Hakeem Nicks still on the board. I see Harvin as a much less effective and versatile Reggie Bush. Also there are some character issues here.

23. Baltimore Ravens - OT Michael Oher (B)

Baltimore never goes for the glamorous guys, but another team that should have consisdered Nicks. The team did get Oher who can block well, but just doesn't seem mentally checked into the game, and in a tough league that passion for the game is necessary.

24. Atlanta Falcons - DT Peria Jerry (B-)

Atlanta got a guy in Jerry that has great potential, but is going to need a lot of work to make sure he doesn't flop. Stuffs the hole well, but doesn't get a great push into the backfield.

25. Miami Dolphins - CB Vontae Davis (A-)

A great cover man who I expected to get wrapped up in the 15-20 range is a great pick for the Dolphins here. The Parcells turnaround continues.

26. Green Bay Packers - OLB Clay Matthews (A)

The most intriguing of the USC linebackers could develope into a pro bowler alongside AJ Hawk. Is getting quicker and may be the best coverage linebacker in this years draft.

27. Indianapolis Colts - RB Donald Brown (B)

Brown did lead the NCAA in rushing last year and can succeed in a shared carry system, but I don't see him being a feature back. Does give Manning a good receiver out of the backfield and a great character guy which GM Bill Polian always targets.

28. Buffalo Bills - OC Eric Wells (C+)

A good center, however I didn't see the financial value of drafting a center here for the Bills, not to say Wells won't succeed.

29. New York Giants - WR Hakeem Nicks (A)

A great playmaking receiver, Nicks will provide the red zone threat for Eli Manning that the team lost after it cut Plaxico Burress due to legal issues. In this system Nicks could be a candidate for Rookie of the Year.

30. Tennessee Titans - WR Kenny Britt (B)

Britt had rising stock in the days leading up to the draft, but the Rutgers star still seems like a bit of a reach, especially for a team with a poor history of drafting playmakers.

31. Arizona Cardinals - RB Chris "Beanie" Wells (B)

Wells can be productive when he is on the field, but there is that looming durability concern and I am not sure he is a guy who can stay healthy for an entire year.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers - DT Evander Hood (B)

Hood is a pretty powerful tackle, but didn't seem to do anything amazing. However the grade for the Steelers is a B because they don't have many holes and can't be questioned when drafting defensive talent.