Rap

Tupac Shakur, Dr. Dre, DMX

Bi-Polar Bear – Today I Found Happy

Hip hop psychedelia with great rap vocals to match. With a witty name like Bi-Polar Bear featuring an apparently heartbroken blue bear on the disc, it's hard not to even try listening to this album. Self described as someone who sounds like Atmosphere, the duo, known before as "Strange Passengers" have renamed themselves as Bi-Polar Bear after their second reunion. All 11 tracks reflect a slight old school flavor with enough of a twist to make it their own. Of course, be warned there are explicit lyrics to this album, so if it's not your trip, then steer clear. Otherwise, feel free to indulge.

Cartel – The Lost Tracks

Presenting talented MC slash Producer...yep, here's one you missed. Seems like every MC out there has held this title, but few who make the jump from producer to MC actually have what it takes. But trust me, you'll be glad that Cartel's Lost Tracks didn't remain lost for good. One half of the duo making up Homegrown Records, this isn't Cartel's first foray into releasing an album. Prepare for Glory was his first release followed by this true underground hip hop gem, The Lost Tracks. Cartel certainly proves naysayers wrong, being a producer/MC is possible especially if you have talent like this guy.

Amongst the People by KILLO KILLO banda – Reggae rap with a Matisyahu flair

Reggae rap with a Matisyahu flair. I must admit, ever since I got a chance to live on an island where reggae was considered mainstream music, I have been on the lookout for good reggae bands. Luckily, I found KILLO KILLO banda. Although he is easily comparable to mainstream reggae guru, Matisyahu, KILLO KILLO banda makes sure to create his own mark. VOJISLAV Malešev sings under the nick KILLO KILLO and sings "roots-reggae or ragga riddims" using his poetry. Amongst the People is an engaging compilation of 11 tracks that not only showcases fresh ragga music, but also gives a nod to the roots of reggae.

TRIBUMAN & Jammin’ Orchestra – New Style ina New Vibe

Great ragga riddims with a French flair. TRIBUMAN & Jammin' Orchestra is all about reggae rap riddim beats that will get you bobbing your head and maybe breaking a step or two on the dancefloor. They even add a touch of jazz in there which makes for a very good listen for this album. If you like hip hop and reggae, then this is the right one for you. Even if you might not like to listen to bands whose language you don't understand, TRIBUMAN & Jammin' Orchestra's New Style ina New Vibe is an album you might like to make an exception.

Kadohadacho – free compilation release from Exponential Records & Friends

2010 SXSW might be over already, but you can still get some good free music from many labels. Exponential Records, Ninja Tune, Stones Throw, Daly City, Creaked, Innovative Leisure, and Fake Four have put together a 19-track compilation for you enjoyment and made is available as a free download to everyone. With tracks from all over the world and across many different genres everyone is destined to find something they will like.

Flawless Hustle presents “Stay Flawless”

FrostClick is no stranger to the music of Flawless Hustle since we reviewed their last compilation "Money Isn't Real" last October. Now they've released another adventurous album with the poignant name "Stay Flawless". With 28 monstrous tracks, this is a heavyweight musical entree that will satiate the appetites of hip-hop lovers who are always on the hunt for the new and unknown.

Wordsmith: The Vintage Vault Mixtape

He's back!!! Mr. "more than a million downloads", Wordsmith, is back and has let loose 15 tracks from his personal archive; compiling them into The Vintage Vault Mixtape. Giving his fans something to satiate themselves while waiting for his new album, Vintage Experience, to hit shelves on March 30th. As expected, Wordsmith delivers tracks filled with expressive lyrics which coalesces perfectly with equally diverse rhythm and beats. A true rapper/actor (he has a degree in theater to boast of) Wordsmith effortlessly strings together words and phrases creating meaningful lyrics rather than just spitting out meaningless rhymes.