Rap

Tupac Shakur, Dr. Dre, DMX

Rockthedub presents The KhemLab

After two years since releasing their compilation, Offshore Drilling (not to the mention scores of praise and acclaim they got for it) The KhemLab is now back with their latest compilation. The Khemlab is essentially a collective of young, up-and-coming, talented MCs gathering together to create one explosive compilation. For their first collaboration, they utilized Kid Hum's instrumental record, Fossil Fuel as the back bone. This time around, the group conjures up original beats as well as a couple of sample cuts from "Diamond District and DJ Concept & DJ Mickey Knox' BYOP EP" to create this stunning piece of hip hop album worth hearing.

Jay Mel: You Know

Following his last release, Who Is Jay Mel, also covered within the pages of FrostClick, Jay Mel comes back with yet another addition to his artistic repertoire, this time in a shape of four track EP, You Know. The Youngstown, OH based rapper is certainly raising the bar every time he steps to the microphone (which he is proudly doing since the young age of 15), and this time is proving to be no different.

SoulClap “SoulClap: The Beatape”

DJ and producer SoulClap is sharing his craft by offering a free Beat Tape to emcees, fans and general listeners. Filled with 12 instrumental beats, each track can be used for your own devices provided you credit back the artist, of course. SoulClap is actually a hip hop producer who manages his own recording studio back in Germany. Back in his country, he has produced music for various talented artists like Freeway, Smif N Wessun, Epsilon Project, Those Chosen, Dominique Larue and several other new artists. It's definitely a great compilation for those looking to try their hand at mixing and creating their own sound.

Kidd Russell: Backyard Heroes

Kidd Russell's Backyard Heroes is an interesting mix of alternative hip hop that you might want to check out. A college football player by day, Kip "Kidd" Russell turns into a rap star by night and creates an eclectic mix of hip hop music. Citing influences like Tupac, Common and 90s alternative bands like 311; it's no surprise you'll get a whole hodge podge of sound from this artist. Backyard Heroes is Kidd's 3rd album and in a short time he's found himself thrust in the limelight; opening for artists like The Roots, Common, Christ Webby, Uncle Kracker and The FLOBOTS just to name a few.

Mattic, La Fine Equipe: THE DARKSIDE (Fantastic Planet)

Released on the first half of 2011, The Darkside is the second part of the Fantastic Planet record. The album is a mix of upbeat hip hop and rap along with electronic synths littered here and there. It features remnants of tracks from the Fantastic Planet compilation that were previously unreleased. Spearheaded by La Fine Equipe and American rapper Mattic along with other talented artists, the album is a comprehensive record that combines talented rapping, samples and beats. Pulling together 13 tracks; it's a likable record you can play in the background as you cruise on through your day. Best part is that it's available as a free download on Nowadays Records BandCamp page.

K. Sparks’ Diagnosis: Success

After having a successful run with his Trilogy mixtapes, K. Sparks is back with his latest project Diagnosis: Success. This time around, Sparks tackles and narrates his experiences in trying to achieve his dream of success. Filled with 17 tracks and quite a handful of guest appearances by producers as well as fellow rappers , the compilation is a real treat for hip hop lovers all over. The songs are fresh and carry that signature melodic rhythm with spot-on lyrics that the artist has excelled in for so long. Of course, there's a touch of something new as well. A great album that's perfect for welcoming both old fans and new fans to the fold.

Terius Nash aka The-Dream: 1977

Behind every superstar is an awesome songwriter/producer backing them up. Terius Nash also known as The-Dream is one of those people. One of the most sought-after writers and producer of today; he has helped create some of the most popular and memorable pop songs of the recent decade. Tracks like Rihanna's Umbrella, Mariah Carey's Touch my Body, and even Beyonce's Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) are among a long list of hit tracks he's helped write and produce. When he's not working with superstars, he's busy spinning his own tracks and this time, he's treating his fans to another free album; 1977. It's an 11 -track record that features Nash's smooth vocals, lovely melodies and impressively honest lyrics. Fans and new listeners are certainly in for a treat.

Bobby Blunt: A Traveleres Notebook EP

Swedish music blog, Apple Juice Break, has been posting about music ever since 2008. More recently, however, AJB decided to venture just a bit outside of their comfort zone into the world of art & graphic design and ... even more music. Their recently created collective YES WAY!, has brought us a great new free EP, A Travelers Notebook, (made available on June 17th) by Virginia based vocalist & rapper Bobby Blunt and Australian born producer TA-KU. The EP is a hip-hop, neo-soul, rap influenced 5-track release with just a hint of electronic sounds and some stand-up vocals. Overall, a pretty sweet first collaboration project.

The Black Pawn: A Breath of Fresh Air

A Breath of Fresh Air is a hiphop compilation released by Pawn Structure Productions. Spearheaded by record producer and artist, The Black Pawn, the album compiles works by various artists under the indie hiphop netlabel. From main man, Hank McCoy to Sol Infinite and Epidemic; the album is peppered by talented underground/up-and-coming artists in the hip hop world. The album itself comes with 14 tracks that revolve around easy-listening, hip hop music. With likable beats and smooth rhythm, the album exudes a retro vibe throughout. It's a lot like listening to a 90s rap/hip hop record with a very slight modern twist.