I just want to preface this by saying that Thao is easily one of my favorite musicians (last.fm will easily back me up on this). She’s one of those dream girls that everyone either wants to be or be with. It probably doesn’t hurt that she’s effortlessly sexy and sings lines like “what about me?/me on top of you?” with the utmost sincerity. Naturally, I was near giddiness when I discovered that Thao with The Get Down Stay Down had released a new album last week, Know Better Learn Faster. That being said, as much as I love Thao, I have to admit that I was disappointed by the album. Every other song that I’ve heard of theirs has been an intricate musical journey, complete with heart-breakingly clever lyrics, and frankly this album is largely lackluster. At one point during “Easy”, she declares, “sad people dance too”, a poignant thought, but delivered with little emotion. Is this what happens when you’re sad Thao? It was hard to find tracks from the album that I felt accurately portray the essence of what makes Thao great in my mind, but as an addendum, I’ve included some “classic” Thao tracks, the ones that made me fall in love with her in the first place. Hopefully this is just a bump in the road, because I don’t think I want to live in a world without her music.
Thao with The Get Down Stay Down – When We Swam
Thao with The Get Down Stay Down – Easy
More goodies!
Thao with The Get Down Stay Down – Chivalry (one of my favorite songs of all time)
Thao with The Get Down Stay Down – Beat (Health, Life, and Fire)
Thao with The Get Down Stay Down – Swimming Pools
Wasn’t quite expecting to see those two names together, but somehow it works. The new single from the forthcoming Wale album is out, and it is indeed featuring the Lady herself. Simple and clean and catchy, this songs works and will hopefully bring Wale into the focus of the mainstream. Also included in your gift bag is a remix by DC’s Nacey, one third of Nouveau Riche. If this is your first introduction to the DC rapper, never fear, more lies beneath the surface. If you haven’t heard “The Kramer”, arguably one of the best songs (self!) released last year (where were you?), you’re in for a mind blowingly thoughtful experience.
Wale – Chillin’ (Feat. Lady Gaga)
Wale – Chillin’ (Nacey Remix)
Wale – The Kramer
When I first heard Brooklynites Au Revoir Simone (while coincidentally living in Brooklyn, what’s up Bushwick!) I fell in love. They provide simple songwriting at its best, three ladies and a drum machine. At first they seem quiet and unassuming, but listening deeper shows how quietly poignant their lyrics and melodies are. Sample lyric, “I’m moving on/ I hope you’re coming with me”, how can you NOT love it? I don’t know much about the DJ responsible, but I came across this remix of “Shadows” which stopped me in my tracks and only gets better with each playback. Listen and listen again!
Au Revoir Simone – Shadows (Tanlines remix)
I don’t know if it has anything to do with the
Killah Priest show I’m engineering tonight, but my week has been filled with good rap.
Pink Dollaz is six gorgeous mc’s from L.A. Their name was inspired by their love of pink and $$$. They’re also somewhat involved with the
Jerk scene going on in Hollywood, but I’m really just into their flow. Their beats are minimal and really make you focus on the mc. I haven’t seen them floating around on too many other sites, so go see them before they blow up.
Pink Dollaz – Don’t Need No
Pink Dollaz – Never Hungry
Pink Dollaz – Lap Dance
