Phrequency writer James A. Johnson hits us with his Top 5 local releases of the year.
I know I'm the hip hop guy around these parts, and I'm sure it would have made sense for my local album of the year to feature some sort of rapping on it somewhere, but what The Mean have done with Meet Us Here is undeniable. An incredible fusion of rock and blues with tinges of funk thrown in here and there for good measure, Meet Us Here was the album I listened to the most this year by far.
Stand Out Tracks: "Oliver Law", "All Force Is Spent", "Tumblin'"," WWGD".
2. Scanz – The Basement Chronicles
Scanz’ free, full-length 2009 album just barely missed the cut into my top ten, but is definitely worth checking out. Scanz’ performance on this album, both on the mic and producing, is second only to Doom in terms of those who handled both aspects of their music this year. Scanz also managed to employ a host of talented emcees to assist him, including Reef The Lost Cauze, Mr. Lif and Akrobatik.
Stand Out Tracks: "One Revolution", "The Gauntlet", "Who Reign Supreme?"
Philly Slick smoothly sidestepped the sophomore slump with their second album, Oil. Whereas their debut, Culture Industry, offered larger than life horn instruments that verged on self indulgent at points, this minimalist back to basics approach is much more appealing. Lead rhymer Noesis' verses fit perfectly over El Smooth's production, and the songs featuring singer Jenn Z. are especially impressive.
Stand Out Tracks: "Hunt V. Kill", "Poets Write Killers", "Turn It Up".
Local producer Haj of Dumhi has been steadily crafting an incredible body of work, and while past efforts have been marvelous in terms of production but have left something to be desired in terms of vocals, this latest Dumhi release is finally able to create a cohesive whole. Employing the talents of Tanya Morgan’s Donwill, Red Giants member, Jermiside and MAGr’s Al Mighty, along with some of Haj’s best work, Indian Summer probably the most impressive Dumhi album so far. It’s also available for free on Dumhi’s website, so check it out already!
Stand Out Tracks: "Black Roses", "Indian Reign", "Drive By Graffiti".
5. The Rebel Yell – Love & War
Featuring production from Khari Mateen of Elevator Fight and frequent Roots collaborator, James Poyser, The Rebel Yell seems almost destined to succeed. The group’s futuristic sound, anchored by lead vocalist Domini Quinn SupaStar, doesn’t easily fit into any genre but can be quickly categorized as “good music”. With surreal themes, fantastic arrangements and a host of local talent including Patty Crash, Nikki Jean and Selina Carrera, Love & War is a great start for this very promising band.
Stand Out Tracks: "Save The World", "Love & War", "Army Of Misfits".
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