Summer Sounds

Like More Mix Tapes
I am fully aware that I am no authority on what is and isn't good music. But I do know that when something I listen to strikes a chord within me, it's a good thing. See the two mix tapes recently added to my play list.


Wale - Back to the Feature

I first discovered Wale a couple of weeks ago by way of a tweet. I can't deny the fact that I fear I am really late on him. None the less I have since caught up to speed & if you haven't downloaded Back to the Feature with 9th Wonder, then not only are you late, but you must be in hibernation. The title is foretelling as it is chock full of features from some of my favorite artists such as Talib Kweli, Skyzoo, Feeway, Beanie Sigel, Peter, Bjorn & John among other talents. But it's not just the features that caught my attention the first time I listened to it. There is a certain authenticity about Wale's delivery. Several times he comments about concerns that he may be too pop. But I felt that there was a complimentary balance between alternative (I guess that's what you would call it) and that very organic something that can only be found in hip hop. So which tracks are among my top rated?
New Soul, Rhyme N Reason, Goodbye (absolute favorite), Nothin to Worry About (I am a fan of the original as well), and Wonder Why.


Dj BuddaBlaze Cycle: 1Planting Season

Another new addition to my iTunes rotation comes courtesy of DJ BuddaBlaze. Again discovered on twitter (which I am sure will soon be considered a reference source), I have had this one for a little under a week I think. But I find that I keep going back to it. This mix tape has an interesting mix of beats, achieving more of a street feel to it. Features here include, Deams, Eminem, Blaq Poet, NORE, and Drake. I know its a DJ thing, but I have to say the one annoying part of this mix tape was the constant "DJ BUDDABLAZE" intros.
Favorite tracks here would include Don't Be Mad with Pete Rock, Hate with Blaq Poet & NORE, Smile from Alcimest & Twista and Reality Check from Black Thought.