Showing posts with label Jazz. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jazz. Show all posts

November 10, 2013

WSLE Soundscape Radio: ReConnecting


Instead of giving you the long story about why this podcast didn't drop when it was scheduled to - how 'bout I just give you the music and you take it from there. Enjoy!

Twitter: @mysoullessons
Facebook: SLE Soundscape & Soul Lessons Entertainment

The Stuyvesants – Mind Traveling
Sango – Affection ft. JMSN
Oddisee – Yeezus Was A Mortal Man
Fatima – Technology
OC & Apollo Brown – Angels Sing
Gregory Porter – Free
Zara McFarlane – Mama Done
The Internet – You Don’t Even Know ft. Tay Walker
Dynasty – Body Heat ft – Hometown Hero
Sola Rosa – Promises ft OliverDay Soul (Tall Black Guy rmx)
Kenautis Smith & Black Spade – Greatest of All
Thundercat – Tron
The Foreign Exchange – Better
Sandra St. Victor – Spirit Talk
Jinx – Stay Strong ft Ron Marks
Hawk House – Round We Go
Moonchild – Gone
Bashiri Asad - Broken

October 8, 2013

Classic Beatz - Rumors of Royalty



Remember my dude, Classic Beatz! Yeah, I know - it's been over 2 years since I interviewed him, but since then, he's been on his grind connecting with some great musicians to bring his latest album, Rumors of Royalty to the people, and I, as one of his trusted confidants, have been made privy to the album before its release date scheduled for October 28th. Classic describes Rumors of Royalty as the end of a trilogy which focuses more on his Southern Black American roots, rather than his African roots.

"The project is a mix of funk, soul, jazz, hip hop and house music. These are all the influences I've experienced growing up in St. Petersburg, Florida. If I had to sum up the album in a couple of words, I would say Pan-African Black American music!"


While I write and tune in to it, I can hear all of the influences, but most tracks move along the funkier jazz progressive sound which make for a delightful listen. The first single, "The Boom Bap" featuring emcees Fresh Daily and Black Spade allow the melodic yet hard core vibe of Classic's production to be the perfect backdrop to paint their lyrical niceness. Pre-orders of the album are available now! Support it!


October 4, 2013

WSLE Soundscape Radio is Coming Back!


Six years ago, I fervently set out to create a movement I deemed necessary for my community and the city of Tampa where I live. Producing a platform for health and wellness - together with showcasing various independent musicians was the overall mission. The Vision took form as Soul Lessons Entertainment (SLE). With more passion than know how, my attempts to garner support for this Vision served to be challenging. Over the subsequent years, I experienced more setbacks than successes with life getting in the way - bringing what seemed like a barrage of letdowns and disappointments. I finally called it quits! Even though I still had the desire in my heart, I didn’t take the actions to pursue it in spite of all the obstacles, which is one of the most important factors when seeing your dreams through: DETERMINATION! 

Today, I have a more defined purpose of what SLE represents moving forward. I know there will be challenges, they are inevitable and must be overcome to realize the mission of the movement I envisioned for all these years. So get ready for what’s about to come! Allow me to reacquaint you with WSLE Soundscape Radio, SLE’s podcast. It’ll be a year come October 18th since my last one, but we’ll return with a collection of new and old vibes for your listening pleasure. 

Mr. Wells

October 18, 2012

WSLE Soundscape Radio: Diversified





No matter what, I going to keep my promise of being consistent. Didn't get to mix this out fully the way I normally do, but it still sounds good! Sorry no download link this time, but enjoy it all the same still. Don't forget to like the page on Facebook: Soul Lessons Entertainment and follow me on Twitter @mysoullessons and share the vibe with a friend.

Tracklist

1. Skyzoo – Drew & Derwin
2. Rapper Big Pooh – For Members Only
3. Vel The Wonder – Lizzy Love
4. AlexisDavis – The Lift Off
5. Kris Mars - Night Falls
6. Staycen X Koen - Never Too Late
7. Breezy LoveJoy – Sadie
8. Lucille Ghatti – The Super Villain #2
9. Radio Galaxy – Feel Trip
10. Nicholas Ryan Gant – Liberty
11. Substantial - Neighborhood Watch (feat. Acem of Gods'Illa)
12. TingTryer - .38
13. Funkommunity – The Light
14. BMB aka WayneTweed - Amore
15. Robert Glasper Experiment – Black Radio ft Yasiin Bey (Pete Rock rmx)
16. Missoles - Under the Sun ft. Erik Rico (LAID S.O.U.L. rmx)
17. Gwen Bunn – Epitome

September 29, 2012

WSLE Soundscape Radio - The Movement Continues


Mr. Wells is back! Yeeeah! Let's pick up where I left off 1yr & 3 months ago with that good music for your mind, body and soul. A call to action has been served, so please respond accordingly. The turning of a new is about to unfold.

Tracklist
Spinnerty – Just Listen ft. John Robinson
Tall Black Guy - Who is He
Teri Tobin – Love Me
LaToiya Williams – This Love is Sweet
Diggs Duke – Patiently We Bloom
Mo Kolours – Temi
Paul White – The Punch Drummer
YG’z – Groove on (Pete Rock rmx)
Zhane – Request Line (rmx ft Queen Latifah)
Commentary/LL Cool J - Pink Cookies… (Easy Moe Bee rmx instrumental)
Sango – Sempre
Rochelle Jordan – Could’ve Been
Ana Tijoux - El Rey Solo (Feat. Curumin)
Proh Mic – Cosmic Beauty
Georgia Ann Muldrow - Kali Yuga
Yesterday’s New Quintet – Little Girl (Dakota’s Song)
Teresa Jenee - Tahitian Vanilla
I-Ced – Soldier Ready To Go Home
Skyzoo – The Ellis Wilson Painting

Download here

Twitter: @mysoullessons 
Facebook: Soul Lessons Entertainment

March 8, 2012

Quantic & Alice Russell with the Combo Bárbaro - I'll Keep My Light In My Window



Her rousing rendition of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy" brought the soul of UK songstress, Alice Russell to my attention. Sometime around the end of summer in 2009 is when I heard it via the Radio One network. Like most persons who hadn't seen her prior to hearing her, I thought she was a black woman. Nevertheless, with pipes that can belt out pretty much any soul classic of the late 60's, 70's & 80's, she surely holds her own. It's a wonder howAlice didn't get the same acclaim as fellow UK songbirg, Adele. 

Her debut, 09s' Pot of Gold, in my opinion was a great album! Eleven tracks inspired by the sounds of Motown and legends like Aretha Franklin and Curtis Mayfield flow all throughout the album. Now after nearly three years, she's back - joining forces with producer,  Quantic (who I've come to know only last year). Look Around The Corner is the forthcoming album schedule for an April 3rd release, and judging from the symphonic sound of the first single by the same name and now the amazing second single "Ill Keep My Light In My Window," fans will not be disappointed. Keep tuned in; 2012 is going to be another great year for music. 

February 9, 2012

Robert Glasper - Move Love ft King (TBG rmx)


The date is drawing near (February 28th) for the release of the highly anticipated Black Radio by the Robert Glasper Experiment. I've heard about five tracks thus far and each one has confirmed for me how great this album is going to be once I get to experience the full disc. Currently, Robert Glasper and indabamusic are conducting a remix contest for the lead single "Move Love" ft King. I've heard several up to date - very dope ones at that, but the newest comes from non other than my dude, Tall Black Guy. With this remix, TBG blends elements of his singnature sound (bass heavy) along with some broken beat styled drums and some special effects to the vocals all perfectly arranged and executed easily bringing this remix to the forefront of the competition. I'm not quite sure how the winner will be selected; I didn't see anything regarding a voting process on the site. Whatever the case be, I wish all the best to TBG because I believe in his ability to create something magical. Listen below, and enjoy! 

Robert Glasper - Move Love ft King (TBG rmx)

February 2, 2012

Esperanza Spalding - Black Gold ft Algebra Blesset (Video)

A quick stroll through twitter and look what greatness I came across. "Black Gold" is the first single and official video from the 2011 Best New Artist Grammy Winner, Esperanza Spalding. Featuring Atlanta native, Algebra Blesset "Black Gold" explores the rich history of African culture and black pride. The two compliment each others voice so well, and as the first single this is a great look for Algebra as well. I love how the video begins, reminds me of how I am when talking to my two youngest. This is definitely an exciting time for Esperanza and for the many new fans she's welcomed since the Grammys. I'm looking forward to the upcoming album, Radio Music Society due out March 20th. I'd heard Q-tip produced the album, then I heard he did produce some tracks, but will they make it is another question. Let's hope they do. Either way, support it when it drops.

January 7, 2012

Robert Glasper Experiment - Ah Yeah ft Musiq Soulchild & Chrisette Michele



I heard this yesterday via Kev Beadle's podcast and was instantly blown away. "Ah Yeah" is the first official single from pianist/producer, Robert Glasper's fifth album, Black Radio scheduled for a February 28th release. Featuring Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michele on vocals, this has only intensified the desire to purchase this album. Having heard two previous singles and peeping the track-list, I can go on early to say Black Radio probably will be album of the year for 2012. Pre-orders available now via amazon and itunes. 

January 3, 2012

Tall Black Guy - Love To The World

A new year without some new tunes is straight up wack! That's why producer Tall Black Guy's management made sure to hit me with one from his latest batch. As always, TBG cooks up another soulful dish for us to vibe out to. Rhythmic drums, lush keys, that signature bass line and a few ad-libs keeps the head in constant nod mode. This one's available come 1-24-12 on 7" LP, so if you're a vinyl collector or dj add this is one to your crates. Support it here.  

 Tall Black Guy - Love To The World

December 30, 2011

Bashiri Asad - Running On Empty/ I Am 1


Over the past year plus some, I've become more acquainted with the warm and soulful sounds of Indianapolis native Bashiri Asad. The upbeat defining single, "I Am 1" brought him to my attention and caused me to seek out more. Since that time, I bought a few singles from his previous (I Am 1) and current project (The Space Between), but fell behind on posting anything about him. So let me say this, the brother is definitely one you need to have added to your collection. Bashiri reminds me of a young Luther Vandross! That's an automatic win for me. But Bashiri has great storytelling and song composition of his own that's well worth giving him your ear. I suggest you head on over to his bandcamp right now and idulge in some great soul music from an artist who's making moves toward becoming one of your favorites. 

Bashiri Asad - Running On Empty


Bashiri Asad - I Am 1

December 6, 2011

Himal - Makin Moves ( Video)




"Makin' Moves" is the debut and lead single from London based singer, Himal. Just last week I received an email notifying me to Himal, the video above and his forthcoming Ep, Soul Light /Soul Love. The track is produced by Kensaye, who brought us an amazing remix of Amy Winehouse's "Rehab."  On "Makin' Moves," Kensaye composes a summery feel type track which compliments the easy going flow of Himal's vocals. As much as I like the track, I thought it was a bit long though and could've ended under four minutes (just my thoughts). Still and all, it's a solid first for Himal so I won't be to hard on him. Check out below another single that I came across from him and keep watch for the Ep in 2012. Get your free download of the single here. 


   

November 9, 2011

Tamara Wellons - Ah God (Songs For Janie Promo Video)




Tamara Wellons is one of a few artists that has been making moves for a few years now, but I honestly just got into her early last year. I heard her song, "Like Rain" on some dj's mix and couldn't stop bouncing to the heart pumping house song. Her debut, "Life Is" is a great mix of dance, house, jazz and R&B vibes sprinkled with inspirational and uplifting lyrics. Her beautifully executed cover of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is one that needs to be heard by the masses.

Three years later, the Ivor, Virginia native returns with her first single, "Ah God"off her long awaited Songs For Janie, due out next Tuesday (11-15-1). Tamara been hard at work creating this work of art and which happens to be inspired by the Zora Neale Hurston classic, "Their Eyes Were Watching God." "Ah God" begins with a quick tale of blinded love then breaks into a richly sung chorus of trusting ones intuition. To carry out that dream inside your heart and in to the world where it belongs. Sounds like a pleasant changing of musical lanes for Tamara, and I thus far personally accept.    

Tamara Wellons - Ah God

October 13, 2011

Jose James - Trouble (Oh No remix)

Sometime last week, I heard this remix of Jose James' latest single, Trouble. Producer, Oh No (Madlib's younger bro) lessened the bassline a tad, added some bells and whistles but overall kept the vibe very close to the original. You can purchase your copy starting tomorrow here. Trouble (Oh No Remix) by josejamesworldwide

September 30, 2011

Kinny - 2546 Nice


Over the past two years, I've become more familiar with the independent UK label, Tru-Thoughts. With names like Natural Self, Wild Cookie, Mark de Clive-Lowe, Bellaruche and a host of others, I can attest to their niche for cultivating a diverse plate of great music. Now in operation for twelve years, they continue their formula of keeping the music first and the business second, which in turn creates a successful label and a place where artists can be themselves. With that said, I introduce to you, Canadian born vocalist, Kinny. A classically trained opera singer, Kinny found her true passion when lured in by the natural and free feeling vibes of jazz, reggae and soul. There's no doubt she made the right decision, cause after hearing her deep soulful voice cruising throughout your eardrums, there's no denying her gift. "2546 Nice" comes from her 09' debut album, Idle Forest of Chit Chat. Groove to the bouncy, bluesy and spacey vibe of Kinny.  

September 22, 2011

Columbia Nights - Stormy Weather


Earlier today, I held a very heavy heart due to the unjust murder of Troy Davis. I wasn't going to post anything because of this, but an email of a new twitter follow changed my mind. @Columbia_Nights is now following you (@mysoullessons). Consisting of co-producers and former bandmates John E Daise and Hayling Price (Philly) along with vocalist Sarai Abdul-Malik (D.C), Columbia Nights came together over their love for vinyl, laughter and Thai iced tea.

Completely new to me, which is always great, their cover of Little Dragon's - Stormy Weather is an equally blissful and serene rendition of the original. With Sarai's voice able to stand on it's own in comparison to LD's, Yukimi Nagano, she sounds so welcoming over the electro-souled out production of John and Hayling.

Based in Washington, D.C, the trio has taken almost two years, studying and perfecting their craft to prepare the world for their forthcoming debut. I for sure will be checking for them! Make sure you get on board too. Young black souls sharing their gift of music is always a beautiful thing, and being friends at that only makes it more genuine. Thank you Columbia Nights for reaching out. 

Columbia Nights - Stormy Weather

September 14, 2011

Darling Lure (The Primeridian & Tall Black Guy) - Album Review

In the 95' hip hop classic, "Survival of the Fittest" by Mobb Deep, Prodigy leads off by stating "There's a war going on outside/no man is safe from..." and although he was talking about life in the streets, these words couldn't be any truer when looking at the war being fought within the music industry. Entertainers of all facets are faced with the evils that exits throughout, and sadly to those on the outside who admire the glitz and glamour - it's not so very appealing. And since so many of the popular ones are leaders along with radio and media programming praying on the minds of children and adults alike, there grows a cultish like community that seems sometimes unavoidable and impenetrable.

Having said that, there are forces of good putting in work to set a new standard and give the world something of substance. In steps the three man collective known as Darling Lure. Now if you're a fan of this blog or frequent from time to time, you'll find quit a few posts about producer, Tall Black Guy. The architect behind the soundscapes of Eighties Babies, BlacKeys/Circle of BlacKeys a plethora of instrumental projects and remixes, and now the mastermind behind the boards contributing to the illustrative verbal paintings of emcees Race & Simeon Viltz of The Primeridian.

Yesterday (9-13-11) marked the release of their self-titled debut album, Darling Lure - an assorted gem filled collection of 13 tracks addressing good times, spirituality, Chicago life, attack of the "real", domestic relations and much more. Joined by a few Chicago comrades and other respected artists from cities beyond, Darling Lure presents a cohesive project with the perfect balance of hypnotic beats and substantial rhymes to have the album in heavy rotation.

Since yesterday up 'til now, I haven't listened to anything else (w/the exception of some meditation music). I did that primarily to be able to review the album without bias. Now don't expect a breakdown of each song cause opinions will surely vary. But let me just start with the "Intro in The Mornin'" which opens the album with a highly interesting thought. Over what I think was inspired by the beat of Anthony David's, "Let me in," (maybe not), Tall Black Guy inserts two audio clips from a pastor and another speaker who both reveal a particular practice seriously plaguing pop culture - backwards and encoded messages that find way into the listeners subconscious causing them to believe or act out in ways not typical of ones normal behavior. Sounds strange? Well, it can also be very disturbing when you hear or see these messages played out for self. This intro sets the tone which in turn leads Race and Simeon to confront these practices without apology.

On tracks like "Change The Meridian" Race fires off on these candy land rappers who rhyme of false lifestyles stating: "Shell toes the only time you seen shells bro/and hell no these dudes and criminal or poppin' pistols the only time they pop lead/they was young poppin' pencils." No need to say names; just pick any one of your favorites and the sentiment fits. "Hang on" speaks to people of all life's and encourages them to hold on to those valuable lessons learned amidst the ignorance and wicked forever surrounding them.

Halfway through the contents lighten up a bit, bringing us to the stressless narrative, Whistle While You Work - the current fun spirited single from the project. You can peep the video for it here. Wasting no time shifting back to a more serious note, "Trust" ft. ADaD & G.G, with it's creepy like production  touches on predators of innocent women and men who physically and mentally instill fear and harm upon them through various deceitful measures, but also to trust in God and the greatness you envision.

Closing out the album is "Love Hurts," a short tale of how a connection between two was formed right up 'til the time when things go wrong and trust is lost. Sad? Yes, but the jazzy vibe Tall Black Guy produces eases the pain one may feel as they travel down the path of their lost love.

Coming in at right about 50 minutes, I assure you, you will not be disappointed. Darling Lure is a great debut pairing two of the dopest indie emcees with an equally dope producer whose soul purpose is to bring quality and sincerity to a genre and market lead by quantity and deception. Give it a listen and support these brothers.

Darling Lure - Take U There ft Yaw, Iomos Marad & Uncle Imani of The Pharcyde

Darling Lure - Change the Meridian ft Pugs Atomz

September 12, 2011

ReneeDion - The City That Sleeps


If you have yet to catch on to the sure shot sounds of ReneeDion, it's time to wake up and inject your soul with some of her dope music. Six months after dropping her debut EP, The Rhapsody Inn, Renee returns with a sultry induced 8 song mixtape that elevates her vibe another stage forward. Her tone is increasingly alluring on this set and the production by The Liquid Crystal Project compliments her voice perfectly. This is just a teaser before the full length drops early next year, and Renee does a great job with holding your ear and leaving you yearning for more. Peep "Donna" below and make sure to get your free download. 

ReneeDion - Donna

September 8, 2011

DJ Rahdu - The Diamond Soul XXXperience: Summer's Gone


BamaLoveSoul presents, DJ Rahdu - The Diamond Soul XXXperience: Summer's Gone. Yo, this mix - to put it short is insane! DJ Rahdu creates an impressive playlist taking listeners on a musical odyssey which at the end will only leave you craving for more. Don't waste time reading the list below to see who you know; just press play or click download for your personal keep. 

 
Tracklist:

Intro, Erykah Badu – Telephone (Freddie Joachim Remix) The Planty Herbs & Moods - Harlem Swag Royce Da 5’9 w/Geeman aka Grand Ear– Funk in the Hole, Boom! Funky DL – Son of a Brown Bomber Dotmatic – One Like Yoooo Boom Baptist – Left and Right (interlude remix) Charlie Peters – Searching for James River Ekundayo – D and Jello Bobby Blunt – My Life in the Sunshine Ishe & Hezekiah – Paradise K-Murdock - Breakadawn The Notorious B.I.G. – Kick in (terlude) the Door (Drewbyrd biggie Starr’s Remix) Question w/ The Notorious B.I.G. – First Juicy Notice AbJo/Raashan Ahmad – In Love with LeftCoastCruisin’ Applejac – Today feat Tonya Dyson Colonel Red – I Will Be There Tony Ozier – Back to the Mitten Quantic – Ain’t Nuthin But a G Thang (Dre en Cumbia) Dr. Dre – the Next Episode Pt 2 feat Snoop Dogg (Daru Away Mix) Stac – All or Nothing (Kidkanevil Remix) Headnodic – Truth feat Destani Wolf & the Jazz Mafia horns Blu – K E E P U S H I N N Dennis Coffey – All Your Goodies Are Gone feat Mayer Hawthorne (Shigeto Remix) Rahsaan Patterson w/Richard Pryor – God Toro y Moi – Still Sound (Toby Tobias Moving Sound Remix) ELQ – Tron’d Out Floyd the Locsmif – Filthy and Horny Mathias Stubo – Don’t Look Down Little Dragon – Summertearz Eric Roberson – Summertime 2 (Salah Ananse Remix) Lazy Disco – More Tigers (Mirror People Remix) Afrolicious – Thursday Night Kinda Swing The Rurals – On My Way

September 2, 2011

Jose James - Park Bench People ft AllSaints Basement Sessions (Video)




Minneapolis-born jazz singer and composer, José James is again taking on a new direction with his music. From his 08' traditional jazz debut The Dreamer to his more experimental sophomore project BlackMagic (2010), Jose doesn't seem to stick to any format. This video clearly illustrates what he is capable of and fans can only expect the smooth baritone crooner to deliver another record of varied appeal to the market. Currently, his latest single, Trouble is only available overseas. Not sure when it will hit the states, but when it does, make sure to support. Also, here's another gem entitled "Vicadin" he shared via his soundcloud page.