Out of [*****]
Che Grand – Everything Good’s Ugly (2009/hip-hop)
Defined by Che’s charismatic, wordy flow, this is a treat for anyone who loves their hip-hop heady and verbose. A rare treat.
[****1/2]
Toki Wright – A Different Mirror (Hip-Hop/2009)
Keeps it to the G-code, full of great verses. Toki’s mad and he spits with a passion that you can’t help but admire. A bit uneven.
[***1/2]
Lightning Bolt – Earthly Delights (RAWK!/2009)
Once again, Lightning Bolt delivers a squalling, feedback infused mammoth of a record, it doesn’t do anything new for Lightning Bolt’s formula.. but this is the kind of sound I never bore of.
[****1/2]
Federico Aubele – Amatoria (World/2009)
I’ve been loving recent latin releases as of late, and this is no different. Airy and dubby sound bliss.
[****]
14KT – Nowalataz (2009/Hip-Hop)
Glitchy, soulful instrumental from Detroit. Consistentally interesting and varied. A bit too glitchy in spots, but overall, it’s a treat for the ears.
[***1/2)
DJ Spinna - Sonic Smash (2009/Hip-Hop)
Has an infectious, raw energy about that's hard to deny. Rough, tough hip-hop that doesn't pussyfoot around.
[****]
Nino Rota – Music From the Movies of Federico Fellini (Score/Various dates)
Nino Rota’s music is every bit as magical and whimsical as the films his compositions accompany. Bliss.
[*****]
