Thursday, July 31, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: New GFC Mixtape
So I finally got around to checking out the mixtape (sorry about taking so long GFC, Rebel's been busy), and figure I share it with y'all. Mickey Factz' collective, GFC NY has released a mixtape showcasing their respective talent. The mixtape, titled Vietnam Vol. 2, features music by Melo-X, Fresh Daily, Nakim, Chester French, Jade, and other assorted up and coming talents. Definitely worth your listen.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
My Thursday Dilemma...
Hey guys,
I need your help. I found out about several events going down Thursday evening, all roughly around the same time. Which one do you think I should attend?
Happy Birthday Karrie B.!
The (in)famous Karrie B. turned 21 today and I figure I show her some love. She already posted this, since it was my gift to her, but I figure I share anyways. Since she's been going crazy for Theophilus London, I decided to do her a solid...
K-Salaam + Beatnick In-Store Autograph Signings!
And this the day after...
Audibly Bloggable: Young Jeezy ft. Jay-Z "Put On" Remix!
Hey Guru, put a little T-Pain in my sh-t, too...
You know what I mean?
I put ooooooooooooooonnnnnnnnn...
G-mix...
I don't need no T-Pain, I got this...
Yes, I put Marcy on the map, I put Brooklyn on my back
I put Fab back on the charts, I put Biggie in my raps
I put Nas with Def Jam, I let Diddy do my tracks
I put on for my city, that's a motherf--kin' fact
I put Mike Jack on stage at Summer Jam, Billie Jean
I put Prodigy in his place, on that Summer Jam screen
I put 'Preme in my truck, told him leave those streets alone
I predicted jail would happen, I tried to put him on
All these n***as taking credit, for the work that I put in
If you really put me on, put yourself on in
I put miles on the hooptie, I put hours in that kitchen
Put that on my d**k, Momma this fact not fiction
Feds was trying to build a case, I was headed for conviction
'Til the greatest flow in the world, put me on television
I put on for my city, so when I'm dead and gone
I got one last wish: put my Yankee hat oooonnnnnn...
-Jay-Z
If I got any of these lyrics misconstrued, let me know. Dag, he really brought up that 2001 Summer Jam. I remember it was the talk of summer school.
Oh yeah my Nas Album Review....
Aiight, well Nas week has come and gone and I still never got around to posting my review for the new Nas album. It will be coming shortly. It's my favorite album of the summer thus far, with a few others that I'm looking forward to. The way I feel about Untitled sonically, is the same way I feel about The Dark Knight visually.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
NOOOOOO....The Smyrk Breaking Up !?!?!?!?
For those that don't know The Smyrk is an indie rock band whom I had gotten familiar with since the summer of 2007. I never had a chance to post any of their music in my Audibly Bloggable series since I couldn't come across any of their mp3's. I just received word via Bold As Love that they are doing their last show tonight in Hamden, CT. Their official statement was left via their Myspace blog.
I first saw these guys at the Brooklyn Best Fest back in 2007, when my friends and I were roaming around BK looking for something to do. The song "Dial V for Venom" made us fans, being as how we're all Spider-Man fans. Varyus Waise and I also caught them at this years Afropunk Festival, where they managed to once again do their thing. Here's a sample of their music:
From now until the time of their show tonight, you can download their music over at their Purevolume page from now until the show.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: Theophilus London "Die 4 You" vs. Prince's "I Would Die 4 U"
While I anxiously await all of Mickey's "Incredible" freestyles (I want to put them in one giant convenient post), I figure I throw this out here. I saw Theophilus London at the 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, and began checking his music on and off since then. This particular song has caught my interest. It's London's flip on the old Prince song "I Would Die 4 U"...
LOL @ these Disney & Sesame Street fitteds....
Spotted via Dr Jay's Blog. More via Dr Jay's Online Store.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
In Case Y'all Ain't Know....
Aright, I know I haven't made an abundance of posts like I normally. I've been busy struggling to get my life together and figure some things out. There's going to be some changes coming soon in regards to this blog. I can't say just yet, but there's a chance y'all might need to change the url for this blog in your link lists (I'm sorry for the inconvenience). When that time comes, I will be making mass emails, and leave an entry explaining it all.
First off, some of you may be confused about a post recently about Bodega Steve. It's a REAL CONTEST! We're really trying to get Bodega Steve to buy some new kicks and we really want those that follow this blog to come up with ideas as to what he should buy. No BS. I will really send you a Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival water bottle when we make a decision. So please, if you get a chance either make some suggestions by leaving comments, or send all sneaker ideas to yellowrebelblog@gmail.com.
Second I've been dying to change the header. Here's a preview of what it looks like thus far:
I want to throw in some more eye candy but I can't think of anything off the top of my head right now. There's a small possibility that I might leave it that way, but I really want to make it look cooler. If anyone reading this wants to make a suggestion, feel free to.
Hoodman'S Barack Obama vs. John McCain Limited Edition T-Shirts!
Pic via Hoodman Blog.
Shirts are only $10 and can be purchased at the Hoodman website. Shirts come in red, white and blue. Also, check out their collaboration with Ghostface when you log on t0 their site.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Block Party Fun
If all goes well I should be attending this...
Friday, July 25, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: K-Salaam & Beatnick "Babylon Must Be Mad" (ft. Sizzla & Young Buck)/ Cormega "Fresh" ft. KRS-1, Grand Puba, Big Daddy Kane & More!
My bad for the lack of updates today. While everyone is busy picking their brains as to what sneakers Bodega Steve should cop, I've been getting some new music recently.
As I write this, the release date for K-Salaam and Beatnick's latest effort Whose World Is This?, gets closer and closer. Most recently they dropped this track that's been lighting up the blogosphere:
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Yellow Rebel Presents: The "Help Bodega Steve Pick Some New Kicks" Contest
As you can see, he wears New Balances that are synonymous with high school teachers nearing retirement. He desperately needs some new kicks.
And he wants YOUR help.
With that said, we want YOU, the blogger/reader to send suggestions and pics of what sneakers Bodega Steve should cop. Once Bodega Steve determines what sneakers he wants to purchase, I will get in contact with you about sending a prize of 1 limited edition Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival water bottle.
Keep in mind there are some terms & conditions:
1) Since this is open to anyone please do not send me any offensive or inappropriate images.
2)If you're a blogger who comments frequently, I will be more inclined to check out your email (sorry for the bias, but spam mail gets kind of crazy and you never know who's being serious)
3) In the subject line please add: BODEGA STEVE SNEAKER CONTEST
4) Please correctly write the sneaker name/model and attribute it to a brand (eg. Nike Air Force 1)
5) Please include a picture of the suggested sneaker
6)Bodega Steve will be narrowing down sneaker suggestions based on budget--we're looking for fly, but affordable sneakers.
7)Please send all suggestions to yellowrebelblog@gmail.com
Go ahead and leave some comments or send me an email if you have any other additional questions or inquiries.
Visually Bloggable: Nas on Colbert Report
Via OnSmash.
Lol, that made my morning. I like how Colbert kind of catches Nas on the whole gun thing. Nas has a point, too. Hey Nas, if you're reading this watch Lord of War.
Audibly Bloggable: Mickey Factz "Sublime" (Leak #31)/ Greg Street ft. Soulja & Cutty "Poppin' On Myspace"
I know I'm late with the whole Mickey Factz weekly leak thing, but I've since received music from him and figure hey, why not. This would be Leak #31...
Not bad. To d/l click here.
Some of you are probably spitting food out of your mouths in disgust right now and saying "Soulja Boy? YR why in the 747 would you post this?". I'm not even going to front, I peeped it first on Sickamore's blog and found it to be amusing. I later got it sent to me. If you found it just as funny as I did, feel free to d/l.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
IT'S RACISM....IT'S ALWAYS RACISM: The Dragonball Movie Poster
I'd say two of "these" are not like the others
Pic via Angry Asian Man
Visually Bloggable: Shwayze "Corona & Lime" Video
I've been finding a lot of interesting videos lately. I was skimming through my YouTube subscriptions and came across this video via the Universal Music Group. Since they disable embeds, I found the embed via Shwayze's YouTube page. The title of the song is what really caught my attention. Who else likes a "Corona and Lime"?
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Visually Bloggable: Young Jeezy ft. Kanye West "Put On" Video!
Big, big, big shout-out for HERfection for finding this.
Random News...
Iraq wants US occupation out in 2 years...(via Times Online UK)
Obama's biggest task...(via NY Daily News)
How the bad economy has affected women in the work force...(via NY Times)
Hey the Infrared Air Max 90's are going to be released again...(via Sneaker Files)...My brother has a pair of these. They're dope + versatile.
GM plans their electric car for a 2010 release...(via USA Today)
Ahem...MTA fares and tolls will rise next year...(via NY Times)...you all know how I feel
Ahem...according to TIME 85% of US unhappy with economy...(via TIME)...I really feel they could've come up with a better title
Jay Leno will leave Tonight Show next year...(via BBC)
McCain not so tech savvy...(via Alternet)...not that it really matters so much, but it is something to think about...
Sierra Leone wants to be drug free...(via BBC)
No space New Yorker reporter on press plane...(via Huffington Post)...was this really over the Obama cover? I mean the press plane had over 200 requests...
IT jobs at risk?...(via Computer World)
Monday, July 21, 2008
Hello Brooklyn...
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Post-Dark Knight Analysis
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING BLOG ENTRY MAY REVEAL SPOILERS. IT'S HIGHLY SUGGESTED THAT YOU ONLY READ THIS SO LONG AS YOU WATCHED THE MOVIE
The Dark Knight was perhaps the best movie that I've seen all year. It certainly lived up to the height and exceeded my expectations in some areas. As I stated before, this is perhaps the greatest comic book-based movie of all time. What I loved most about this movie was that seeks to satisfy both the regular movie-going audience as well as the comic geeks like me.
As I'm sure you have all read, the real star of the movie is Heath Ledger's Joker (R.I.P.), whose performance as a socio-pathic masochistic is both startling and brilliant. There is no backstory explaining how he became the Joker, although there are small allusions to his past, which changes every time the Joker tells it. Even in the comic there is no clear backlog that explains the Joker's true origins, although the most widely accepted story is the one from The Killing Joke.
The Joker is a symbol. He has no past, yet he has a present (and a presence), and a violently vibrant future unless Batman finally subdues him. He represents total freedom--hence the poster that read "Welcome To A World Without Rules". He is a character unrestrained by any sort of guidelines set forth by the modern world. He has absolutely nothing to lose, and everything to gain. For me, the scene that sums up the whole idea of freedom from any restriction was when the Joker lights the money on fire. It's symbolic in a Fight Club-esque way, in the sense that one of the most oppressive forces in the world, money, has no power over him.
The Joker is also free of physical oppression. When Batman cross-examines Joker, anyone familiar with the Joker character would know that the person who should be nervous during that scene should be Batman--with every punch Batman throws and, and every time Batman throws him around, you have to brace yourself more and more because the more vicious and catastrophic Joker's next move becomes. Not doing what he wants does. When Batman appears in that interrogation room with Joker, Batman isn't in just any room--he's inside of the Joker's mind. He's entered upon a dark reality that is far beyond anything that your average person can fathom.
So forgive me if I've over-analyzed it and taken the fun out of the movie for any of you, but it was a masterpiece that deserves this type of honorable mention. Feel free to comment away.
P.S. Nas Untitled album review coming soon.
My Post Midnight Dark Knight Reaction
Saturday, July 19, 2008
The Day is Upon Us: I'm Going to See The Dark Knight
So my friends and I will be convening at the Imax theatre to finally watch The Dark Knight. I'll tell everyone how it goes later.
Boring Friday Night Matinee
I bought a movie at Target a few days ago that had a profound impact on my youth. I finally got around to watching it tonight....
As a matter of fact any obscure 80's movie that found its' way onto the Saturday and Sunday matinee on WB 11 probably had sometime of residual effect on my youth. When I was younger, one particular interest that I had was monsters. Specifically, the classic 50's movie monsters.
Between this and comic books, I know I'm open season right now for jokes, but what have I got to lose.
What I liked about this movie was that it fulfilled the childhood fantasy I had of combating these monsters. I mean
So what prompted my purchase of this DVD?
Well for one it was $9 at Target.
Second, my respective peer group and I bring it up every time we reminisce the 90's. Also, I was perusing Ivy League's blog and came across the old trailer for it. Props to Ivy League...
So what is my analysis of the movie now that I'm much older?
Non-sensical.
Ridiculous.
Absurd.
Classic.
Yes, despite all of the flaws in it, I still enjoyed it. There are some movies that you have to set all notions of seriousness aside and just enjoy it for what it's worth. Monster Squad is a cult classic and I highly recommend renting it for pure hilarium.
Interestingly enough, according to First Showing, given the cult following that the movie has, there are plans to remake the movie. Although the folks over at FS are against it, I'm indifferent. Guess we'll have to wait and see.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Visually Bloggable: The Watchmen Trailer
When this movie was first announced, I was vehemently against it. I mean, to translate Moore's vision seemed impossible and out of the question. Surely, I thought, they will mess this up.
However, upon viewing the trailer, I believe I was wrong. This trailer looks great and I am anticipating this movie come 2009. Hats off to Zack Snyder. You made me a believer.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: Nas' "You Can't Stop Us Now" vs. Rza's "You Can't Stop Me Now"
A few months back I posted this song...
It was the lead single off of RZA's Digi Snax album that came out recently (go cop that!).
Most recently, the rapper of the moment, Nas had this song featured on the album...
For those unable to listen, both songs feature the same sample and utilize the same hook.
The RZA version is nostalgic journey through his past and a nod towards the now scattered Wu-Tang Clan (the group he helped start and grow). His verse recounts the experiences that led him to become a producer. While RZA's delivery is composed and undramatic, his verse is followed up and juxtaposed by Inspectah Deck's blaring reaffirmation that he won't be stopped. It's a nice balance, it's this same duality that made the Young Jeezy and Kanye West song, "Put On", work.
The Nas version is equally formidable in my opinion. Whereas RZA recounts his personal history, Nas sticks to the theme of his album and recounts striking images and names within Black history that include everything from "Willie Lynch to Willie Hutch". Nas' version invokes a 70's nostalgia vibe, much like RZA's, but broader in the sense that he touches upon history well beyond his own. The song is not only a testament to his people, but to the strength of his people, given their 400 plus years within this country. This is one of my favorite songs on Untitled, given the content and delivery. It comes off as dope spoken-word song with a poignant message about Black history.
It's Racism, It's Always Racism...
“I can’t stand Obama,” [he] says, adding that it’s not because the Illinois senator is black. “That’s the only thing I like about him. He opens the door for other minorities.”If that's the case, why would you make a shirt referencing Obama as a slave?
Whenever I look at incidences like this, it becomes more and more obvious why this guy chose to make this album. Even after the whole Civil Rights era, equality still remain in an earshot of a reality, even for someone like Obama. I have yet to see a "McCain is my Slave" t-shirt. If Hillary had won, would there be "Clinton is my Slave" (or perhaps "Clinton is my B---h") t-shirts? So why make Obama the sole target of this debauchery? The answer probably lies within the title of this blog entry.
Those reading this may or may not agree with Obama, but I'd like to think that he is shown a level of respect. For a biracial man to ascend to the heights that he has is an accomplishment, regardless of race or gender.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
It's Officially Nas Week On Yellow Rebel's Blog
Aiight, many of you might be perplexed by the recent onslaught of Nas' related posts. Yes, I am a fan. I mean just read my profile. I like dude's music. In light of his most recent release, the promotion has gone viral with much of it being put on the internet, including the launch of the Nas' weblog Nas Independence Day.
Now I know I copped out on the autograph session (I know, boo me), but I got wind of something else: The Nas' Album release party. Here are the pics:
Included in these pictures are Dox (that dude), Eddie (that friggin' dude), Elias (that other friggin' dude/celeb on the come up), MC Frank Jugga, Fonzworth Bentley, Nashawn, Jungle, Bravehearts, Big LES, Nas, Crazy Legs & the Retro Kidz.
With all that said shout-outs to everyone in the pictures. If I wasn't able to get your name feel free to hit me up and I'll add you to the above list.
Also, while I was there I found out about a free Nas' performance at the Blender theatre. I was tight. If you've ever seen a Nas' concert, you'll know why I wish I had gone. Nonetheless, a release party more than suffices. Expect my album review for Untitled to be the last chapter of Nas' week.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Nas @ Alife
Ah, so the day has finally arrived. Nas' Untitled hits stores today. I would've gone to the autograph session, but most of the crew is busy. Anyhow, my dude Mikey Fresh sent me some links to Nas' performance at Alife last night. For those that don't know, Alife is a boutique sneaker/streetwear brand situated in Manhattan. In honor of Nas' album, they pressed up a limited edition t-shirt (only 100 made)...
Visually Bloggable: Holy Cow a Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe Video Game!
Via Complex's YoutTube
At first I thought this was a joke, but after viewing the graphics and the website, it's a reality. It looks like a really cool game. I guess they're trying to capitalize off of the superhero hoopla (especially The Dark Knight hype). What's funny to me is that both parties, Mortal Kombat and DC, are the respective competitors to Capcom and Marvel--both of whom collaborated years ago to create the classic Marvel vs. Capcom video game.
For more info check out WorldsCollide.com.
Random News...
US trying to leave Iraq quickly...(via NY Times)...I have my reservations about this
Film rules set in NYC...(via AM NY)
Drug crew arrested in Sierra Leone...(via BBC)
Anheuser-Busch gets sold for billions...(via NY Times)...eh, why do I feel this is step closer to them outsourcing our beer
Q-Tip dropping another album soon...(via LA Times)...The Abstract is back!
XBox360 moves to streamline Netflix movies...(via NY Daily News)
Apple does Lil Wayne numbers with the new iPhone...(via Tech Crunch)
Study says Americans twice as likely to try marijuana than Dutch...(via Huffington Post)...
Barack making moves to visit the West Bank...(via USA Today)
Nas going on tour...(via Billboard)
A step towards solar power?...(via Clean Technica)
Post Midnight Bloggin': Guess What I Got...
It's a bit late, but why not. I was all over the place today. My bad for no updates. But I'm back. And I got a mean gift....
Monday, July 14, 2008
Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Part 2
So I took part in the 4th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival--a Hip-Hop extravaganza that managed to bring together new jacks who are steady developing their name within the game, as well as the older jacks whose names still ring bells when mentioned. This year's headline acts were KRS-One, Buckshot and DJ Premier.
Video Vixon and I managed to meet up almost every artist to film drops, interviews, and shout-outs for the newly minted Brooklyn Bodega TV. We were at the Empire Fulton Ferry State Park at roughly 9:30 AM to help the Brooklyn Bodega set up for the day. The sun was beating down on us, but it was okay once we started filming and making our rounds. Prior to the performances, the Brooklyn Bodega had its first Brooklyn Hip-Hop Family day which ran from 12PM-4PM which included various family-oriented activities.
There's not a whole lot to say, the pics kind of speak for themselves. When the footage is all up, I'll be sure to post it. For now enjoy the pictures folks. Please comment away.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Nas Hearts Asian People
Before I give a run-down of my exploits @ the 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, I wanted to share this video....
(clenches right fist and raises it in the air in semblance of profile pic)
I was notified of this event about a week ago and wanted to attend before I heard about Just Blaze and God's Son being the surprise guests...
But I had an obligation, the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival. Sorry Miss Info, I wish I was there.
Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Part 1
I helped out at the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival yesterday--the annual concert that is the brainchild of the Brooklyn Bodega.
I'll get into all the details, in my next post. For now enjoy the following shout-outs:
The entire Brooklyn Bodega staff, volunteers and interns
Video Vixon
Homeboy Sandman
Fresh Daily
Mickey Factz
Mikey Fresh
Freelance (Jared Evans--the Source Spit 16 Winner)
Zaki Ibrahim
Amanda Diva
8thW1
K-Salaam
Keith Murray
Emperial Nation
Charles Hamilton
Donny Goines
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Visually Bloggable: Max Payne Movie Trailer
I'd like to attribute this, but this trailer is all over YouTube now.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Nas Autograph Signing on July 15th!
Via Nas Independence Day.
July 15th @ the Virgin Megastore in Union Square, NYC.
I'll be signing autographs, too.
Just kidding.
Really.
Son of a....
So I was hanging out in Bed-Stuy last night, all while another promotion for The Dark Knight was going on. Come to find out in the morning that this was what they were giving away online...
They gave away IMAX tickets.
IMAX tickets.
(kicks feet and crosses arms)
Argghhh!
(thinks about it for a second...)
But I bought my tickets already.
So maybe it's not so bad.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Visually Bloggable: Nas "Sly Fox" Video Shoot
Via Illdoctrine.
Looks to be good. Rik Cordero and Miss Info always do their thing. It's what I call Asian Power. *raises fist in semblance of Yellow Rebel image*
Random News...
Jesse Jackson apologizes...(via USA Today)
Michael Jackson + New Kids on the Block ?...(via Contact Music)
Stronger, better, faster, cheaper: new iPhone drops tomorrow...(via Reuters)
American Medical Association trying to rectify racial disparities...(via AM NY)
iPhone Applications Store...(via NY Times)...wow what a way to maximize your new iPhone shopping experience
Iran testing missiles; US issues warning...(via BBC)...
The Max Payne trailer is here...(via First Showing)...as soon as I'm able to get an embed, this is going up. Between this and Punisher: War Zone, it sounds like this fall and winter will be quite vengeful...
Embarrassing music moments...(via James Bio)
At-home hydrogen fueling station...(via Gas 2.0)
Unsigned bands to receive royalties from Last FM...(via Read Write Web)
Seattle saying no to plastic & styrofoam...(via EcoLocalizer)
Elton Brand going to the Sixers...(via Yahoo! Sports)
Water on the moon?...(via Live Science)
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Midnight Bloggin'...
So I didn't have time to put anything up today. My bad.
No "Random News"...
No videos...
I've been frantic trying to micro-manage a multitude of things...
On the bright side Sickamore gave the co-sign over at his blog.
Thanks Sick.
Big ups to Varyus Waise for holding me down at a multitude of events.
And props to Professor P for giving me an idea for another blog entry...
Post-Midnight Blogging Pt. 2...More Dark Knight Shenanigans
I'm sorry I didn't tip anyone off about my plans--not that I think anyone feels compelled to run around lower Manhattan at 9-10 PM looking for clues in the New York City summer heat, but I've just been kind of all over the place. I was tipped off the other day by First Showing. From what I've heard, the next step in the campaign is supposed to take place on July 10th.
Oh I also managed to score some goodies from this last event...
A copy of the Gotham Times.
A Citizens For Batman t-shirt. That fist is an obvious rip/reference to the Yellow Rebel fist.
Post-Midnight Blogging Pt. 1 (The 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival!)
Ah...what a day. I've been making the mad scramble throughout NYC today. I've been trying to get back to doing my "Random News" posts (I feel ashamed not posting any current news), but I keep getting sucked into a variety of things. In the latter half of my day I had to travel to Brooklyn for a meeting for the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival. Folks if you can please head over to the Brooklyn Bodega and get yourselves a ticket! The Festival is on July 11th & 12th, with a underground Hip-Hop event at powerHouse Arena on the 11th and the main show on July 12th.....
The BHF is also having it's first Family Day...
You can get your tickets at either Fat Beats or the Halcyon Record Store. Addresses & phone numbers are as follows:
FAT BEATS NEW YORK
406 6th Ave
2nd Floor
New York, NY 10011
Ph: 212.673.3883
HALCYON
57 Pearl Street (@ corner of Water St. & Pearl St.)
Brooklyn, NY
Ph:718 260 WAXY
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Janelle Monae @ 2008 Afro Punk Festival July 5th
Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival x Emperial Nation...
I went to check out a photoshoot for the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival yesterday over at DBA in Brooklyn, New York. Located in the Park Slope section of BK, DBA offers a hip selection of t-shirts, Nikes, limited edition figurines, and interior decoration that would satisfy even the most uptight Hypebeast.
The photoshoot was for some limited edition t-shirts that were made in collaboration with the Brooklyn Bodega and their 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival. The designer, Melissa, of the Emperial Nation had some fresh shirts that would turn heads, whether it be for the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival or Farmaid.
Shoutouts to Varyus Waise for holding me down with some pics, Craig for inviting me, Mikey Fresh, Homeboy Sandman, Fresh Daily, Sputnik Brown, the DBA staff, Emperial Nation, Krow Hill clothing, and anyone else who I met yesterday.
Monday, July 7, 2008
This Ain't Rappin', This Is Hipster Hop...
This whole debate about "hipster hop" sickens me. It's not even worth getting into, but since Promo Mami ask that I share some music with the blogosphere, I felt that it was best served with some explanation...
So there is this new frontier of rappers, who pride themselves on being a little different and being fairly educated and reasonable, as opposed to the standard fare of MDK rappers (that stands for Murder Death Kill for those unfamiliar) whom seemingly never went away even after Mayor Bloomberg took office in NY. This frontier of artists has included the likes of Kidz In The Hall, Mickey Factz, Kid Sister, The Cool Kids, etc.--all whom have a penchant for funky colored cardigans and high-top sneakers.
And because this class of artists has this penchant for funky colored attire and making non-conventional rap music, they have been marginalized by the general hip-hop audience as a bunch of "hipster rappers".
All this over a pair of Supra's (whatup Mickey).
Tired of seeing these well-to-do artists be at the center of this type of ignorant marginalization (many of whom hail from Chi-town), a DJ by the name of Ray Protege has compiled both songs and commentary by these marginalized artists with the attempt of humoring the situation and showing the world that these artists are at the heart, purely one thing: Hip-Hop. Not hipster-hop. Hip-Hop.
So for all those interested the link is right HERE. Feel free to download and let me know what you think.
I haven't weighed in on the terminology, since the debate is aimless and meaningless. But since I've been biting my tongue for a while on it, I guess this would be an applicable time to say something. In short, dubbing these artists "hipster rappers" is no different than what critics were doing when the term "conscious rapper" came about. It's just more spheres of influence seeking to divide.
There's more to it that I'll save for a later date. As for now just enjoy some music.
Cheers.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Crossroads
I hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July weekend. I haven't really posted anything personal in a minute, nor have I had time to collect relevant news and disperse it in one convenient post. My bad. Your boy's been slacking on the blog tip a lil' bit. I know you still see stuff going up, but sometimes I just put up assorted randomness just to keep things updated.
There's been a few things that have happened that I won't get into, but basically I've been keeping busy. In all honesty I'm at crossroads in my life, trying to figure out what I want to do and what I need to do. It feels like I'm lost, but not lost--both hopeless and hopeful.
There have been some things that I have been considering doing with this blog. For one, I've been considering getting a custom domain name and hosting and utilizing a different CMS program (most likely Wordpress). As I write this I'm currently trying to develop a new header. I was also toggling with the layouts earlier, but eventually went back to the template I had before.
Anyhow, I have some more interesting stuff coming soon. I truly appreciated all the encouragement and advice that folks have given me since I started this blog.
-YR
Yellow Rebel's Afropunk Experience
Also big ups to Jovian of the W.A.S. for taking the time to say whatup.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: DJ K-Salaam & Beatnick "Resurrection Remix"
Happy 4th of July folks! It's dirt late and I'm half asleep (just got in not too long ago). I received this in my email. It's part of DJ K-Salaam & Beatnick's Common Remix project aptly titled Stories Told Over Remixed Years (or S.T.O.R.Y.). "Resurrection" is one of my favorite songs by Lonnie. Go ahead and take a listen...
If you're feeling it, feel free to download here.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Watch If You Dare...
Relax it's not a snuff film or anything over-the-top, but I was perusing YouTube and came across a video that had 9.3 minutes worth of clips from The Dark Knight. I chose not to watch the whole thing. However I'm sharing this for those whose curiosity is unbearable or if you're the type that finds it impossible not to peek at gifts on Christmas Eve....
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Audibly Bloggable: Kidz In The Hall "Drivin Down the Block" West Coast Remix
You would've thought they were done, but some they just won't stop! This song has been the indie sensation of the summer. Gotta love the "Ain't Nuthin' But A G Thang" influence on this remix. To download the joint click here.
Lebron James+New Jersey Nets=Cipher Complete
I peeped this on Yahoo!:
When asked to name his favorite city he said: “New York.”Brooklyn is where the New Jersey Nets are expected to move to in 2010 (at least if community groups don’t blow it). The franchise is owned, in part, by James’ friend Jay-Z, and should be stock full of young, complementary talent and a King’s ransom in salary cap room.
I know some people may revile this idea, but I'm with it. If he goes to the Knicks that's another story.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
2008 Afro Punk Festival
Props to Grand Good for the flier find.
A little while ago I mentioned Janelle Monae being at the AfroPunk Festival in Brooklyn. Here's the flier for the complete event. I kind of want to check this out.
YESSSS!!!!! Cement 3's This October!
Via Sneaker Files by way of Marqueesole
These are coming out in a double-pack in October. I'm hyped, suped, etc. Check out Sneaker Files for more info.
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