Friday, 6 August 2010

Louis Den Beat Cypher 11 - 26th August 2010

June saw the second beat cypher of the 2010 season with producer/keyboard player BUG, Birmingham's up and coming SMITH THE MISTER and emcee/producers CAPPO, TRANQILL with Brum vet MALIK also sharing mic duties; although the beats banged all night we noticed a few faces missing from the usual Beat Cypher crowd (where you at??!) well with the football out the way hopefully you'll surface for this next instalment (you want us to keep doing this right??).

Ok so we're back; news would have come a little earlier but we were holding out for a special guest who eventually couldn't commit no problems, the line up is still strong as ever and here it is.





ON THE BOARDS
MUNESHINE - Producer/Emcee/Engineer hailing from Toronto Canada Muneshine has put in work in all 3 fields amongst the various crews he's affiliated with and with his own material as a soloist; his album Opporunity Knocks LP had features and production from the likes of DJ SPINNA, PETE ROCK, ILLMIND, M-PHAZES and guest verses from SUPASTITION, ODDISEE, KEN STARR and EMILIO ROJAs, with worldwide appeal Mune has managed to scan over 30,000 units just in Japan territory alone causing for a few exclusive releases for that region. Our third international guest at a beat cypher we're honored to have Mune grace the boards!.

THE TARTAN BULLIES (S-TYPE & Jaisu) - You already know the names and the stomping beats!, S-TYPE and Jaisu are collectively the Tartan Bullies; given that its been the best part of 2 years since these boys graced the beat cypher stages we figured we get them back together to let us know whats been going on since they appeared at Beat Cypher 02 back in Dec 08. S-TYPE has been going from strength to strength with production work for Tek's (of Bootcamp Clik / Tek and Steele) lead single from his solo LP, Up and coming J.U.S.T.I.C.E League (Rick Ross, Toni Braxton, Mary J Blige) artist LAWS and Hall Of Justus (Little Brother) artist JOE SCUDDA, with more and more credits appearing and inevitable solo work S-TYPE has NOT been slouching!. Same applies to Jaisu whos been on the grind providing material for the likes of Detroits MARV ONE, MICALL PARKNSUN, SHA STIMULI, PUNCHLINE, PRINCE PO and more! still not forgetting the Beat Tape trend he started with AB0181 he's also been dropping frequent volumes of his sought after BEAT TAPE series on Youtube (now on Vol 7 - http://tinyurl.com/jaisuvol7) and featured in a dope Q&A/Instructional portion of the latest Behind Closed Doors Hiphop Production Magazine DVD (http://louisden.com/bcd)

JON PHONICS - Another familiar Louis Den face, Phonics is back simply because dude has been extra prolific in the 18 months since he appeared at Beat Cypher 03, Phonics has put out a myriad of releases in that time including the BEATS & PIECES beat tape which dropped last Xmas for free download and his sophmore LP "HALF PAST CALM 2" (http://jonphonics.bandcamp.com/album/half-past-calm-2) which had strong name checks such as KOSYNE (sorry hehe), JEHST, CYRUS MALAKAI, SONNYJIM, M9, VERB T, OBBA SUPA to name just a few not content with stopping there he's got 2 EP's dropping in the form a collab project (with other Louis Den producers) another collab effort with fellow producer from the Ill Rythmikz camp and Louis Den JEEKAY. Although the sounds have evolved but the funk is still present Jon will have plenty of treats in store!.

MR FIGZ - aka Figaro is Birmingham a native thats been tearing up the 4x4 and Funky House circuit (http://www.discogs.com/Mr-Figz-Mr-Figz-EP/release/1245147) for quite sometime but dont get it twisted though! He's been down with the Louis Den Movement since we first started out (http://youtu.be/P-wuZAA6RjU) and has always been crafting headcrack soul for heads to vibe to expect the unexpected as Figz combines elements from all influences to bring you the undeniable Quinton bounce!


ON THE MIC
TWIN PEAKS (MUNESHINE & GHETTOSOCKS)
Muneshine & Ghettosocks form the duo “Twin Peaks” (http://twinpeaksrap.bandcamp.com), We’ve mentioned Muneshine above, his rhyme partner Ghettosocks hails from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada he’s been an active contributor to the Halifax scene for a few years; he’s supported the likes of NAS, AFRIKA BAMBAATAA, SPECIAL ED, GZA, BEATNUTS and KOOL HERC to name just a few. “Treat Of The Day” his latest release features EL DA SENSEI, PUMPKINHEAD, EDGAR ALLEN FLOE, MUNESHINE and more.

As Twin Peaks the pair explore themes influenced by David Lynch’s work fused with stellar production, their “Perfect Strangers EP” is out now and features production from M-PHAZES, RICH KID, SUFF DADDY and BIG BIX which serves as a prelude to their full length LP “Shaking Hands & Kissing Babies”.

ENGLISH
A vet on the UK circuit English (http://youtu.be/Pz2MBm7rUaI) has been tearing up mics up and down the country; getting his foot in the door via the battle circuits of “Battle Scars” “Jump Off” he’s since gone on to release a strong catalog with his debut LP “Attack Of The Killer Loops” on DAT sounds to his Left Turn Radio mixtapes and the recent release “My Way” (http://www.englishleftturn.com) out on his own imprint he’s been building since 2005 Left Turn Records.

T-BEAR
Finally completing the PA line up is the charismatic Colony affiliate T-BEAR aka TB aka Tuberculosis (http://www.myspace.com/tbworldwide). With a unmistakable voice and delivery T-BEAR has been grafting the last few years having collaborated with the likes of JON PHONICS, FARMA G, CHEMO, ENGLISH, PYRELLI, SHAMELESS, MR 2IBBS and more!, be sure to check his “The Beast From The East” Mix CD from a couple years back which was cut up by none other than DJ MK! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0KaYBeA0zE)

OPEN BEATS / BEAT BATTLE / DJ CRO
We've got the usual OPEN BEATS where producers of all levels are encouraged to bring some material to test the crowd reaction (3 beats max), this is a perfect opportunity to let others hear your material on a club PA and also lets knows in attendance know about the sort of talent on their doorsteps, perfect for networking, handing out beat CD’s and generally connecting with other artists.

Those feeling like they want to take something home can compete in the legendary BUCKS FIZZ BEAT BATTLE where names dawn out of a hat can compete for a bottle of bubbly and bragging rites as the Louis Den Bucks Fizz Beat Battle Winner!!...and finally it wouldn't be a beat cypher with our very own DJ CRO providing the backdrop of hip-hop beats, breaks and treats inbetween the nights action.

*ARRIVE EARLY TO SIGN UP FOR OPEN BEATS, ONLY 3 BEATS MAX PER PRODUCER AND WE MAY HAVE TO REDUCE THAT NUMBER IF THERES A HUGE AMOUNT OF SIGN UPS (prefence is given to newer names)

* NO MP3 PLAYERS/PHONES/ DATA CD's FOR OPEN BEATS/BATTLE, sorry but its an ache to get all this sorted and the cables/pc's are for the showcased producers only...bring an audio CD or most likely its not happening!!.

* THERE IS NO GUESTLIST AT THE BEAT CYPHER, please don’t try it and blag it…respect the cypher and the other heads paying, the more heads supporting the more chance of us being able to keep the movement going and bring you great line-ups of this seasons calibre!

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Louis Den BeatCypher 11
Live Hiphop Production Showcase & Beat Jam
MUNESHINE | S-TYPE | JAISU | JON PHONICS | MR FIGZ
TWIN PEAKS | ENGLISH | T-BEAR
+open beats/beat battle/DJ CRO


26th August 2010
Downstairs @unPlug Digbeth
79 Digbeth High St
Birmingham
B5 6DY
9PM - LATE
£4.00 ENTRY BEFORE 10PM £5.00 AFTER
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Spread The Word!, Tweet/RT, Blog and invite your people to the facebook event!
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Facebook event link: http://bit.ly/amuJDY
louisden.com blog link: http://bit.ly/bAeVPA
flyer front : http://bit.ly/997L2Z
flyer back : http://bit.ly/93KXef
Twitter links: @louisden @Muneshine @S_TypeBeats @Jaisu @JonPhonics @Mr_Figz @GhettoSocks @EnglishLeftTurn @DJCro @RedBeard00 @Kosyne @SONNYJIM01 @EatGoodRecords
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Louis Den Beat Cypher is supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
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New Kelz & Evil Needle over @22tracks

Quick heads up, some new material from Kelakovski and Evil Needle over on 22tracks.com not the first time these two have made it onto FS Green and Full Crates monthly selections and both are monsters, Kelz offering is a an exclusive entitled "22 Hats" whilst Evil Needle hits the pair off with his summer blap from the last Den challenge!.

get em!

Willo Wispa - The Lollipop Lady's Favourite produced by Metabeats

Shouts to our Associated Minds family, they stay showin yawls how to do it with the work ethic and constant high quality control. Okay so next up from them boys (as well as the EatGood collab LP "HighBall" coming soon!!) is the crazy Willo Wispa with his new single "The Lollipop Lady's Favourite" produced by our extended fam Metabeats!!, check for the cameos!



Cop the single now!: Direct from Associated Minds | iTunes

Spine TV x BUG - Stolen Moments

SpineTV sat down with our boy BUG to discuss music and influences! a nice chilled interview with dope little skits/visuals, takes a hot minute to load so dont click and start thinking suttins broken!.





Props to the heads at Spine for getting the much needed spotlight on our peoples! (now open up and watch them BCD's me and AB0181 hooked you up with heh..)

Stig Of The Dump - I Got Game produced by Pete Cannon

Shouts to my peoples Stig Of The Dump we've been pals/rolling in similar music circles for a few years now and he's recently dropped his single for his debut LP "Mood Swings" entitled "I Got Game" which feautres a very familiar Louis Den Beat Battles Blap from Episode 39 to be exact from Jan '09..

Anwyay Pete Cannon (Mr Dick) smashed up the session with his entry which has now become this the lead single accompanyed by Stigs booming/battle led vox I think you can all agree its very much an audible treat!...check it out!!



Cop The Single!
iTunes | Bandcamp


The LP Mood Swings drops in Sepetmeber on Lewis Recordings...go get em Stig!

magOwl in the mix

Den producer magOwl recently hit the forum off with some real nice Itaio Disco, Jazz and Soul mixes that he's been putting together for his involvement in the C70 site; they'll be plenty more added in the future, these are a great listen so peep! tracklists are on the sites themselves!

Oh check his bandcamp page out for some lil remix EP's as well! lots to digest

musiccityliving - A Journey Through Dilla's Rock Crate

Caught this the other week over at the Music City Living podcast, Bowls has put together a super dope selection of the Rock joints Dilla drew ideas from to create many of the later joints from his discography (2005) and unreleased beat tape gems. The mix clocks in at almost 40 minutes and has got plenty "ahhhhh" moments once you catch the break!





Shouts to Bowls, now Go peep!

Thursday, 5 August 2010

Sonnyjim Trading Standards Remixes Out Now!

Brand new material from Eatgood Records front man Sonnyjim as he revisits the material from his smash Mix CD "Trading Standards" with a shortened remix version of a select few tracks from the original but this time reworked by the likes of M-Phazes, Kelakovski, Jon Phonics, Sivey, Shears, Wizards, 184 oh and me.



Loaded with smashers this is one to check, the limited edition CD can copped direct from Eatgood Records, Suspect Packages or Mp3's from all the online retailers.

If you wanna check some snippets out backed with trippy Muto visuals, peep below.



Skandal w/ Jon Phonics and Sivey Production

Check out some brand new material by rapper Skandal featuring production from Jon Phonics with his latest single "Everyday" which features Black The Ripper and a brand new Sivey produced banger "GO" which will surface on his next release "Hunger Pains 2" in October...good work fellas!


Skandal - Everyday ft Black The Ripper (produced by Jon Phonics)

Cop the single from: iTunes | Amazon | 7Digital | HMV | Play.com |

Skandal - Go (produced by Sivey)
LISTEN HERE (only a couple days left on BBC stream, 1hr 9min in)

Wednesday, 21 July 2010

JAISU RETURNS : VOL. 7

Finally, me and Jaisu got round to filming some of his new beats for vol.7... The monster on the MPC 2000XL is back. Click below, but first turn ya speakers up!!! Follow Jaisu on twitter HERE and tell him what you think!

VOL.7 ON YOUTUBE

PEACE
AB

Saturday, 17 July 2010

Budgie hurtin em, Live Beat Set @Boiler Rooms

Den vet Budgie (check the homeworks, beatcypher 09, league 08, league 09 if you need more info) recently played another live set at the boiler room (live ustream/podcast broadcasted from a warehouse in London), its not the first time he's played one so check the link at the bottom of the post if you wanna hear more episodes.

This one was the LIVIN PROOF takeover this one of the DJ crews Budge is a part of blessing many a party with Soul, Funk, Boogie, Rare Groove and Hiphop selections, anyway the crew piled down the Boiler Room last tuesday (Budgie, Rags, DJ Snips, Khalil [uk]), for Budgies last 10 minutes he blessed the set with his own beats.


Budgie @Boiler Room #17



Too ill, check the full podcast below or the link to the main page at Read Platform.

Boiler Room #16 Living Proof Takeover by PLATFORM

New Wizard Leaks!

Old boy Wizard has been busy! he's currently crafting a new LP titled "That Work" the follow up to his "Ear To The Beat" album that he put out last year, to get the innanets buzzing he's leaked a couple joints from the project and if these are anything to go by then the final album should be cashews!.


Wizard & Sonnyjim - 99%



Wizard & Ramson Badbonez - Blood Splat (I Get It Poppin')




Tuesday, 6 July 2010

Homework 65 - The Summertime Joint

Brand new homework, deadline is due this Sunday 11th July.



Homework 65 - The Summertime Joint



With the dope weather we've been having we figure we'd better put the sun to some good use and turn it into some sunworthy blaps so this week we need you guys to turn in a Summertime themed beat!

RULES
So whats a summertime beat?

Good question, basically anything that'll compliment good ol sunshine weather!, whether you feel its some laid back boombap over jazz loops or a beach worthy summertime synth banger!, similar to the "FIFTY" week you could also use it as a play on words or summertime theme (i.e. flip the beach boys, KC and the Sunshine band, Summer Breeze by the Isley Brothers, Summer Madness by Kool & The Gang etc...you get the picture) we're in dope ass beat territory with this pretty much giving you an open licence to turn something in!.

Submit your beats to homework@louisden.com please dont send them to the myspace or PM them to me on the forum!! dont want to chase beats in the session!!.

DEADLINE
Beats are due 11th July, stream should start by 19:00 at the latest, stay tuned to @louisden on twitter, bring a cool box and a few brews with you and we'll be playing these summertime blaps in the lab!

lets get em!!

Vote BUG! in the BBE mixtape competition



BUG's been a busy chap, he's recently entered a mix into the BBE Mixtape Competition, the goal of which is the create the best mixtape from BBE material; if BUG's mix gets chosen he'll have the opportunity get his entry released on the label officially!.

So boom!! get voting for BUG and get our man the top spot! in order for him to be considered he needs to get at least 100 plays before 16th July so get over there and give it a listen and a "Like" on Facebook!

we'll leave you with the words from BUG and links to his mix!.

I entered a mix for the BBE Mixtape Competition 2010. It’s formed entirely of tracks from the BBE Catalogue and I tried to incorporate my favourite original BBE material and avoid tracks from other BBE mixes or compilations. The winning mix will get a release on BBE Records which is definitely a good look – You can listen to my contribution HERE and please feel free to show your support through comments, favourites and Facebook ‘likes’ on the Mixcloud page!


BUG's BBE Mixtape Tracklist
01 – Roy Ayers – Everybody Loves The Sunshine (Demo Version)
02 – Roy Ayers – Searching (feat. Erykah Badu)
03 – Goapele – Too Much The Same
04 – J Dilla – Dime Piece (feat. Dwele) (Remix)
05 – Electric Wire Hustle – Waters
06 – Pete Rock – Smooth Sailing
07 – Dynas – The Apartment
08 – Madlib – Yo Yo Affair Pt. 1 & 2 (feat. Frenza)
09 – Dj Vadim – You Are Yours (feat. Yarah Bravo)
10 – Dj Spinna – Drive (feat. Shadowman)
11 – Dj Jazzy Jeff – Scram (feat. Freddie Foxx)
12 – Dj Jazzy Jeff – Are You Ready (feat. Slum Village)
13 – Pete Rock – Niggaz Know (feat. J Dilla)
14 – Symbolyc One & Illmind – Been Gone (feat. Strange Fruit Project, Proh Mic & S’Ence)
15 – The Foreign Exchange – Come Around (feat. Darien Brockington)
16 – Julien Dyne – Fallin’ Down (feat. Parks)
17 – J-Live – The Upgrade (feat. Plug Won & Oddisee)
18 – Slakah The Beatchild – Enjoy Ya Self V2 (feat. Drake)
19 – J Dilla – Think Twice
20 – Ty – Me (feat. Erik Rico)
21 – King Britt – Superstar (feat. Ivana Santilli)

LINK: http://i.mixcloud.com/C7ew





BONUS BUG BLAP
Check out BUG's remix to Micheal Jacksons "Rock My World" which he dropped at last months beat cypher!.

Michael Jackson - You Rock My World (BUG Remix) by BUGMusic

Monday, 5 July 2010

Jon Phonics @ Suspect Packages Live - Fri 9th July London





This Friday catch the Half Past Calm Allstars hitting the Vibe Bar for Suspect Packages Live celebrating the release of Jon Phonics' latest release "Half Past Calm 2" PA will come from KOSYNE, SONNY JIM, KAL SEREOUSZ, OBBA SUPA, MICALL PARKNSUN, M9, CYRUS MALACHI, VERB T, RAMSON BADBONEZ, 9 PLANETS (Phoenix, Prophet, Blasphemy & Rootz) and T BEAR, expect banging beats and live renditions of material Jon has produced with these artists!

  • Hit up the Suspect Pacakges official blog for more info!
  • Myke Forte Zodiak Beat Tape - Cancer

    More freeness from Den producer (and recent King Of The Beats #6 winner!!! congrats!!!!) Myke Forte in the form of his Cancer beat tape, another free release and addition to the Zodiak series Myke brings together a collection of beats that cover the traits and characteristics of this particular star sign.

    Download, digest and more importantly make sure you support the mans work when it comes time to dig in your pockets!!

    Get em Myke!


    Myke Forte - Zodiak Beat Tape (Cancer) [2010


    01 BlackSkies (Moon Child)
    02 iLiveDis (Emotional)
    03 SadStoryOne (Empathy)
    04 Galaxyway (Mood Change)
    05 AstralPlane120 (Moon Water)
    06 Positively (Negativley)
    07 Percy Flip (Pinch Clip)
    08 WithoutLove (Intimacy)
    09 Resolve (Caring)
    10 Rugged (Tough Skinned)
    11 RealLife (Lonely)
    12 Mystics (Secretive)
    13 HurtWithin (Soft Natured)

    DOWNLOAD:http://www.megaupload.com/?d=MD9J2G56


    Bonus Vid
    Check the full video from the recent King Of The Beats event which Myke Forte ended up taking the crown (and crates!!), shouts to Pritt for the upload, keep up the great work!.


    King Of The Beats #6

    Saturday, 26 June 2010

    King Of The Beats #6 TONIGHT Vibe Bar/ London



    King Of The Beats returns for the 6th instalment of its unique crate digging/beat making challenge, a new batch of producers have to come up with the goods using a £20 digging budget and policy of making a gem crafted from the sounds in those records!.

    Make sure you head down if you are in the London area, louisden mainstay MYKE FORTE and previous louisden entrant / beatcypher 9 producer CHEMO are among the KOTB line up this time and if you are familiar with their beats then you can be sure the rest of the lineup will be up to par!!

    Come out and support if you are reppin the production culture!! we need more of this!


    KOTB #6 PROMO VIDEO

    kotb 6 trailer from pritt on Vimeo.




    King of The Beats 6
    The Vibe Bar
    Sat June 26th
    91 Brick Lane
    London, E1 6Q

    Tuesday, 22 June 2010

    Homework 64 - The Russ Freeman Joint

    Thanks to everyone who tuned into Wrastlin' week, was just myself and Kelz in the lab as everyone else had commitments but it was still jokes and the heads that did tune in got to hear some ill beats, session audio coming up soon.

    Next homework we're returning to the ldbb roots of a straight sample flip but this one is a little themed as its related to the Behind closed Doors Vol 2 DVD that myself and Ab0181 dropped!


    Behind Closed Doors Vol 2 Preview



    Ok so one of the features of the DVD is a "Wrapped Up" (taken out of its usual christmas environment) Kelkovski and Shears exchange records to make an on the spot beat, If you've watched the DVD you'll know Shears digs a record (Russ Freeman's - Noctornal Playground) which has an IIIIIL sample he thought Kela would have flipped but when it came to it Kelz did a total u-turn and went for another track on the album.

    Whilst Kelz final beat was dope (check the DVD to hear for yourself) it did leave that very nice sample all abandonned and unflipped...that'll be your job for this week in the.


    Homework 64 - The Russ Freeman Joint



    RULES
    Your job this week is to craft a beat from the sample provided, adding synths and your own sounds is all cool just as long as you use the sample for the main portion of the beat (no micro stabs/chops please!! use the samp as the foundation!). This challenge is open to all beatmakers who wanna get down/build with us, just do the damn thing and turn in a banger!!

    DEADLINE
    Beats must be submitted for 18:00 27th June, submit the beats to homework@louisden.com as an attachment...dont sendspace/zshare links..its much easier this way.

    LINKS
    Bag the original sample here sendspace | youtube

    Good luck and we'll look forward to playing them back live at http://tinyurl.com/ldbblive


    KOS.

    Saturday, 19 June 2010

    New Young Buck produced by Kelakovski!



    *Kelz with the HEAT!


    Shouts to Kelz, on the up and up; this is the second track produced by Kelakovski featuring ex G-Unit star Young Buck (the first being "Have A Drink With Me" which featured for Bucks "Cashville" artist "Fluid Outrage"), theres more on the way too so stay tuned!

    Check both joints below.


    A Whole Nother World


    Have A Drink With Me (feat Fluid Outrage)



    Bucks mixtape "Back On My Buckshit 2" which both these leaks are from is out soon.

    LINKS
  • Whole Nother World Download @2dopeboyz
    Lets Have A Drink Download @2dopeboyz
    Get at Kelz on Myspace
    Follow @Kelakovski on Twitter
  • Wednesday, 16 June 2010

    Louis Den Beat Cypher 10 Spotlight - BUG

    BUG is a badman plain and simple, he's been out and about for a few years with production scattered about under a former alias as well as taking part in the 2008 league and winning the 2009 league, he also took part in our little beat showcase slash workshop that we conducted for the Red Bull Music Academy session in Glasgow last year.

    Recently he got things poppin as a soloist via the justlikemusic label with his debut release Cosmic Lab / 20 Winks and features on their Oscilations compilations, he's also been doing a few sly mixes on the low (linked at the bottom of the post), lets see what the upandcoming builder of future funk has gotta say!


    1) Hey!!, please introduce yourself to everybody; let us know who you are what you do and how long you've been doing it!.
    My name is BUG, I am a Hip-Hop/Soul producer from London, I've been into music for the greater part of my life but only started releasing music in 2010.


    2) Was there a defining moment (event / hearing a record etc) that led you into making beats / becoming a producer?
    Too many things have influenced or shattered my ideas about music to list one!


    3) What was your first peice of equipment and what were those beats like?, any interesting stories about things were doing to begin with / finding your feet?
    First started making 'beats' on cracked versions of Soundforge/Acid for PC, which basically consisted of looped/cut samples being placed together on a grid with a mouse... Although the beats were wack and my sound and approach is totally different now (I prefer to play/trigger everything live for a more natural sound) it actually tought me alot about the sequencing side of making music!


    4) Whats the one bit of advice youd give to anyone starting out today?
    I feel like alot of producers learning the ropes are lazy, which is more symptomatic of our society in general rather than music. There's nothing wrong with asking questions but don't expect people to hand things to you on a plate, if you really want to learn be patient, disciplined and self-sufficient.


    5) What can heads expect from you at LOUIS DEN BEAT CYPHER?
    I like your description actually! - "expect headcrack soul and lush soundscapes!" - other than that, I try to avoid loops and make my stuff progressive with evolving arrangements.

    Tuesday, 15 June 2010

    Louis Den Beat Cypher 10 Spotlight - Smith The Mister

    It's beat cypher week! so we'll be hitting you off with the spotlight blogs to get you better aquainted with the producer line up and hopefully put you on to some treats you may not have bumped in the past!

    First up is Birmingham's own Smith The Mister. I got put onto Smith via Myke Forte who told me about another producer who he made beats with before he (Myke) moved to Milton Keynes for a brief period.

    Smith made his first Louis Den appearence during the 2009 league where he finished among the top of Division 3, not bad considering he entereed a third of the way in!! alright so heres the scoop on the man of many styles Smith The Mister.




    1) Hey!!, please introduce yourself to everybody; let us know who you are what you do and how long you've been doing it!.
    I’m Smith The Mister born and raised in Birmingham. I've been messing with music since 1998, but producing seriously about 4 years, all in all so much too long. ha.

    I make a varied array of music from Hip Hop to House & Electro to Broken beat & downtempo child out stuff (I like alot of music genres).

    2) Was there a defining moment (event / hearing a record etc) that led you into making beats / becoming a producer?.
    My defining moment was in school, i really wanted to do Art as a GSCE but due to me being a class clown i wasn't able to choose it as a subject ( I was a little wild at school ).

    As an alternative i was given the option to do Music GCSE and the rest is history as they say.

    3) What was your first peice of equipment and what were those beats like?, any interesting stories about things were doing to begin with / finding your feet?
    My first piece of equipment I owned was an AKAI S2000 sampler and an ATARI ST 1040 Running Cubase. Man I love samples, I REALLY LOVE SAMPLES! so having the sampler was amazing.

    The Music I made back then was mad due to the fact that I loved experimenting with samples, recording either from CDs or From vinyl. I wish I still had some of them beats.


    4) Whats the one bit of advice youd give to anyone starting out today?
    My advice I would give to any one who is a producer or is looking to start making music is......... Listen Listen Listen..... what I mean is listen to music not just for samples or ideas just top expand your musical vocabulary.

    If you don’t listen and learn to appreciate other musical genres, other than the one your into, can make you a closed minded musician. music is all about expression what ever the genre so its important to see how and appreciate this.
    For example. when i started making music i only made Drum & Bass, 5 years ago i started listening to so many other times of music not only to get samples and cool sounds but to also to educate myself. Now i Listen to Rock, Soul, Metal ( YES METAL, check out a band called "Skin Dread" Very cool Metal band), House...... And the list goes on.


    5) What can heads expect from you at LOUIS DEN BEAT CYPHER?
    Hopefully good music!

    Monday, 14 June 2010

    Homework 63 - Wrastlin'

    Ok, well after a weeks break we're back with a new challenge; this one is going to involve some digging in order for you to get something suitable to fit with the theme.

    Kela came up with this idea after South Park week which incidently didnt turn up many entries!! maybe it was down to a lack of source material (which hopefully we'll make up for with this challenge).

    OK enough talk, here it is.



    Homework 63 - Wrastlin' Week



    This week we want you guys to flip classic wrestling themes into brand new beats, now obviously theres lots of federations and generations of wrestlers as time has gone by; but when you do say wrestling to most people it conjours up the classic WWF roster (back when it was called that), so that'll be what we're looking for you to flip.

    Of course you can take more recent themes but the classic ones are gonna be ones most of us recognise (and will probably make better beats!)

    RULES
    Make a beat using wrestling theme music (golden era WWF preferred!), use the net/diggin or whatever methods you can to track down some theme music and hit the lab to make a fresh beat!

    DEADLINE
    Beats must reach us by Sunday 20th June 2010, stream will start between 18:00 and 19:00, try to get your beats in before then to make it! email entries to homework@louisden.com (directly attached please no sendspace links...dont be lazy!)

    LINKS/RESOURCES
    A little googling found some useful links, detailed in the text file below.
  • http://www.sendspace.com/file/j35ri9

    * vids for other sessions are coming!! be patient..theres lots going on at ldbb at the minute

    be sure to check the beat cypher this week if you are in and around the Birmingham area UK!, its gonna be dope!
  • Myke Forte - Audio Pixel / Beatmaking Vid

    Shouts to Den producer Myke Forte who has decided to start sharing his beatmaking talents via the medium of video!

    Its a treat for beatheads/nerds all over who have been following his Zodiak beat tape series as you'll get to see a bit of the process that goes into a typical Myke Forte production!.

    In this the "Audio Pixel" series which is Myke's outlet for beats+visuals (stay tuned he's got big plans for it) Myke breaks down beat as you get to see him lay down the chops, construct his drum work and then top it off with a smooth bassline, he also lets the beat ride out from the exported beat at the end if you are feindin for a Hi Fidelity fix! vid editing/titles all by Myke also!! props!


    Myke Forte // Audio Pixel // Beatmaking




    BONUS DL! - Myke Forte - Zodiak :: Gemini Beat Tape


    Be sure to get the latest installment of the Zodiak Beat Tape series from Myke, currently at Gemini (megaupload)


    Apatight - The Aye Pee Beat Library Vol 1

    More excellent freeness, this time from Huddersfield native Apatight. Those who are familiar with Apz will know him from his appearences in the Louis Den League (both the 08/09 Seasons), a spectular peformance at Louis Den Beat Cypher 07 and of course his day in the life feature in Behind Closed Doors Vol 2, you may also know him for his production work for artists such as Jack Flash, Jehst, Micall Parknsun, Asaviour and more..

    Well Apz is emerging outta the lab and into your speakers in the form of his 3 part "Beat Library" series, its great to see Apz drop something in this new producer driven DIY self promotion and hustle; the quality of the work here will keep him head and shoulders above his counterparts! hopefully this get Apz's name and signature sound out and about!! and being ldbb fam its only right he gets pushed from here too!!.

    Here it is...enjoy the soulful sounds, knocking drums and of course the obscure samples/breaks hiding inside many of these joints!!..GO GET EM APZ!


    Apatight - Aye Pee Beat Library Vol 1 [2010]

    01 Anksure
    02 Lilbits
    03 Headband
    04 Hastlehoff
    05 Munrow
    06 Black Rush
    07 Le Mont
    08 Mwyte
    09 Mondays
    10 Play
    11 Switch
    12 Morish
    13 Top Floor
    14 Beatamax

    DOWNLOAD: mediafire | bandcamp


    Those interested in working with Apatight should hit him up on the networks below.

    Friday, 11 June 2010

    Boombaptist - Beat Tape

    I first got hip to Boombaptist under his emcee alias Thesaurus Rex, he's a few tracks under the belt with Kelakovski and a couple bits with his fellow beatsmith Elaquent, he's been hip to the louisden movmement for minute now and came first in the second division.

    Annyway a short while ago Boombaptist dropped his free beat tape, serving as well polished introduction to his production talents and a perfect calling card for selling joints (these are for sale). I slept on these for a bit (simply because of all the dope free stuff backlog) but Bap does not disappoint!!.

    Head over to his bandcamp now for a freedownload, and be sure to hit dude up if you are feeling the material, I'll leave you with his own words!


    Peace I'm BoomBaptist, I'm a Beat Fanatic member and have released a beat tape. I really just want people to hear my music.

    I have been making music for 13 years, am from Austin, Texas and love producing on the MPC/writing. I have worked with Nike on commercials and such artists as Large Pro, Termanology, Blackalicious, and more.

    I would appreciate it greatly if you could help me out! Here is a link to the beat tape, my cover art, and myspace. Thank you so much in advance. Spread it around!



    Boombaptist - Beat Tape (2009)

    DOWNLOAD: mediafire | bandcamp


    Thursday, 3 June 2010

    Louis Den Beat Cypher 10 - 17th June 2010





    April saw the first louisden event of 2010, we were back with a bang as producers ERIC LAU, BEATBUTCHA, METABEATS and JEEKAY delivered their crazy production over unPLUG's booming PA, performances came from JEHST and the ASSOCIATED MINDS label based in Cardiff.

    For the louisden write up see our blog post here (http://bit.ly/dh2sUP) and for a great picture set head over to COMABEATS' flickr stream (http://bit.ly/bbCIYk)


    ON THE BOARDS

    Reppin with the beats this time we've got mix of producers who have all been making noise on the circuit and (unplanned) 2 producer, MC's who'll be performing both sides of the stage!...this one'll be interesting no doubt!.


    CAPPO - A cornerstone of the Nottingham scene MC/Producer Cappo has been putting out releases since '99 with his early EPs, his debut LP - "Spazz The World" (released in 2003) received great reviews across the board and cemeted Capz place as one of the countries premier MC's (Grand Finale - http://bit.ly/au6pvy / Learn To Be Strong - http://bit.ly/djOnTA), more recently he's dropped EP's with fellow Notts producers ENDEMIC and frequent collaborator STYLY CEE in the form of the Needledrop and H Bomb EPs.

    While this may read like an MC's CV Cappo also puts in solid work behind the boards having produced the RESILLIENCE EP on Main Rock which featured a whole host of Nottingham emcees including MR 45, SCORZAYZEE and more; earlier this year his follow up LP GHENGIS which was entirely self produced, banging drums and a hard hitting style is what we'll be blessed with at the Den, no doubt Capz will tear it up! - http://www.cappohq.com


    BUG - Louis Den regular BUG has been making waves with his debut release "Cosmic Lab" b/w "20 Winks" (downloadable here - http://bit.ly/bZwqqF), the release has been getting national radio burn courtesy of tastemakers such as Benji B and Giles Peterson and favourable quotes from the likes of Ty, Kidkanevil and Ohmega Watts.

    Shortly before his debut release BUG had also worked is way through the 12 week duel that was the LOUIS DEN BEAT BATTLES LEAGUE 2009 beating over 70 producers to come out ontop of our sample based tournament (listen to BUG's league beats here - http://bit.ly/bxvqq8), expect headcrack soul and lush soundscapes! - http://www.bugmusic.net

    TRANQILL - Is a reclusive South London producer and MC who tells brutal tales of street life with rare wit and panache. It’s like the first time you heard the Wu-Tang: raw, spontaneous, urgent paranoia that’s instantly compelling, his most recent release "The Hidden Treasures EP" on Onehanded Music serves as a perfect introduction having selected 3 tracks from the vault to bless listeners ears.

    Tranq's style is gritty rhymes over raw loops, straight to the point and no nonsense!!; enough to catch the ears of DJ Mary Anne Hoobs who threw the Paul White Dub of "Payroll" onto her Wild Angels compilation last year, next from Tranqill is a full length LP entirely produced from former beat cypher guest ODDISEE (Diamond District, The UN, J-Live and more) - http://www.myspace.com/tranqill


    SMITH THE MISTER - Birmingham based producer Smith The Mister first came to our attention via Louis Den's own MYKE FORTE, Smith's got a wide range producing a mix of Electro, Down Tempo and Broken Beat. Its work in these fields that got the attention of Dave from the legendary DE LA SOUL who recruited Smith into his collective of music/art/fashion creative's SODA BOYS (which also includes louisden affiliate BUDGIE), Smith produced their debut single "EVERY BODY CHA CHA" which dropped towards the end of '08 http://youtu.be/VjvEfSy85UY / http://www.myspace.com/sodaboy4ever

    More recently Smith also took part in the Louis Den League 2009 and despite entering the contest over a third the way in still managed to chart within the top 3 producers of his division (http://bit.ly/aC5ORE) Smiths bangin beats prove the second city got heat, expect him to do more than keep up the pace at the beat cypher! - http://www.myspace.com/smiththemister


    ON THE MIC


    MALIK
    Birmingham legend Malik is a member of Brum based hiphop collective MD7 who have released the albums "The Power And The Glory" and "Life In The City" much to critical acclaim thanks to well received singles such as silent screams (http://youtu.be/51cjXRnRiG0) and The Rain (http://youtu.be/r3yStnFmK3g), as a soloist Malik has made moves with his own singles "Something Real" (http://mysp.ac/9aVNjn) and "Blues Ground" (http://bit.ly/bCLFBB).

    Malik has performed along side artist such as Fabolous, Amy Winehouse , Immortal Technique, Jay-Z, Heartless Crew ,Mark Ronson, Skinnyman, A-Alikes, Rodney P, Yogi, Mike GLC Black Twang and Foxy Brown to mention a few, he's also worked with producers such as Baby J, Urban Monk,Cipher and Mark Ronson. As a regular guest on radio shows such as the Tim Westwood show on Radio 1, Choice FM's DJ 279 show and 1-Extras Ras Kwame and Rodney P.

    Quite the resume!!, at the Beat Cypher Malik will be performing over the backdrops provided by the nights producers as well as some newer treats!.


    Also performing will be CAPPO and TRANQILL who are also MC's as well as beatmakers!! a first for a Louis Den beat cypher as the producers take to the mic as well as being behind the boards!.


    OPEN BEATS / BEAT BATTLE / DJ CRO
    we've got the usual OPEN BEATS where producers of all levels are encouraged to bring some material to test the crowd reaction (3 beats max) and those feeling like they want to take something home can compete in the legendary BUCKS FIZZ BEAT BATTLE where names dawn out of a hat can compete for a bottle of bubbly and bragging rites as the Louis Den Bucks Fizz Beat Battle Winner!!...this time round prizes kindly come courtesy of BASEMENT SESSIONS and finally it wouldn't be a beat cypher with our very own DJ CRO providing the backdrop of hip-hop beats, breaks and treats inbetween the nights action.

    *ARRIVE EARLY TO SIGN UP FOR OPEN BEATS, ONLY 3 BEATS MAX PER PRODUCER AND WE MAY HAVE TO REDUCE THAT NUMBER IF THERES A HUGE AMOUNT OF SIGN UPS (prefence is given to newer names)

    * NO MP3 PLAYERS/PHONES/ DATA CD's FOR OPEN BEATS/BATTLE, sorry but its an ache to get all this sorted and the cables/pc's are for the showcased producers only...bring an audio CD or most likely its not happening!!.


    Ok Now you know all the details we'll see you there!!


    -------------------------------------------------------------------
    Louis Den BeatCypher 10
    Live Hiphop Production Showcase & Beat Jam
    CAPPO | TRANQILL | BUG | SMITH THE MISTER
    MALIK
    +open beats/beat battle/DJ CRO
    hosted by Redbeard, Sonnyjim & Kosyne

    17th June 2010
    Downstairs @unPlug Digbeth
    79 Digbeth High St
    Birmingham
    B5 6DY
    9PM - LATE
    £4.00 ENTRY BEFORE 10PM £5.00 AFTER
    ------------------------------------------------------------------


    Louis Den Beat Cypher is supported by arts council england grant for the arts.

    Homework 62 - Music From South Park

    Back with another challenge, we've done a couple of the 2 week joints so hopefully you're back into the swing of things and can deliver beats in the usual 4-5 day time frame we set the challenges on!.

    Fat shout to everyone who tuned in for the streaming of 120bpm beats, some interesting numbers no doubt! the videos for that and the little brother session are on the way (slight computer hitch held up proceedings) but be patient!! I've set time aside to play catchup!.



    Onwards and upwards with a new challenge, continuing with a theme rather than a set sample flip; we figured it'd be cool to visit a TV theme again, this time being one from a show that a lot of Den heads dig! (and is notorious for its great songs throughout its seasons/films)





    Homework 62 - Music From "South Park"







    Ok so this weeks challenge is to flip South Park music, that is music that has come from the show either from its soundtracks (bigger longer and uncut / chef aid / mr hankeys xmas classics) or the unique songs that have come from many of the episodes throughout its 14 (and counting) seasons.



    RULES
    To create a fresh new beat using some music from South Park (either an epsisode or movie/soundtrack) as the base. The beat should contain elements of the original track manipulated to form your new beat, a random beat with some South Park voices/sounds is not enough!! try harder!


    DEADLINE
    Beats are due no later than 18:00 6th June, beats should be emailed to homework@louisden.com please dont send us download links; create an email and attach the beat in question to it!.

    We'll be stremaing live from the lab (or Kos HQ) shortly after the deadline at http://tinyurl.com/ldbblive stay glued to the @louisden tweets to find out whats going on!.

    You've had enough of a break now!! lets get these blaps going!!.



    BOOM!



    kos.

    The New School Beat Tape Compiled By LuigiBo87


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.


    After two weeks of build up it's finally here! The New School beat tape consists of all ten beats that were included in the blog posts as well as another ten beats (one extra from each producer)! Out of the twenty beats included in this project, a whopping 14 of them are new/unreleased instrumentals that you won't find anywhere else! I hope you guys enjoy this compilation, it was a blast to put together!

    Major shoutouts to all the producers involved, OJ (Jaisu & S-Types manager), Arkayne for hooking up the artwork, and last but not least Hypedog!




    01 The New School (Bonus) - Inphy
    02 Wait & See (Day 1) - Xperiment
    03 The ComeUp [Hunger] (Day 8) - Myke Forte
    04 Jay Z 99 Problems [remix] (Day 6) - Inphy
    05 Emerald Dreams (Day 4) - Nameless
    06 FizziPop (Bonus) - Myke Forte
    07 Why (Day 3) - J. Bizness
    08 From This Day (Bonus) - S-Type
    09 Sativa (Bonus) - BUG
    10 First In Line [Do Doo] (Bonus) - Nameless
    11 Death (Bonus) - Jaisu
    12 Everytime A Bell Rings (Bonus) - Xperiment
    13 Pump (Day 10) - Jon Phonics
    14 Indica (Day 9) - BUG
    15 Hurt Hurt Go Away (Day 2) B. Lewis
    16 Award Winning (Day 7) - S-Type
    17 Kosmos (Day 5) - Jaisu
    18 Slick (Bonus) - J. Bizness
    19 Reach For The Top (Bonus) - Jon Phonics
    20 What It Do Donkey (Bonus) - B. lewis

    LINK: http://usershare.net/vhhre6zcbxl1

    Wednesday, 2 June 2010

    The New School: Day Ten - Jon Phonics

    Last up on the New School (and by no means least) is another member of the Den familia Jon "Ill Clinton" Phonics. I first got put onto Jon back in '07 ,he had worked with a buddy of mine English and was up for collabin, after the postman stole the first copy I was hit up with a beat tape (which sounded more like a dope instrumental album) and after a few false starts (1) with joints getting scooped up (2) before I could claim them (3) we eventually managed to lay a track down (4)!! (and hopefully more in the future!!), anyway if you dont know then get to know, but following Louis Den I got no idea how you've slept on the kid! onwards with Luigi's write up/


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.





    Pump - Jon Phonics (THE NEW SCHOOL: DAY 10)

    Since the release of 2008's Half Past Calm 1, 23 year old London based Producer, Jon Phonics has progressed into one of the most versatile talents from across the pond.

    His latest release on YNR Productions 'Half Past Calm 2' is a showcase of his production work ranging from rugged boom-bap beats, smooth,melodic soulful records to progressive electronic heaters and featuring some of the UK's most notorious rappers. More of which can be heard on his 2009 instrumental release 'Jonathan's Beats & Piece's'.

    Although having released 2 full length LP's, in less than 6 months, be on thelookout for more projects from Jon Phonics in 2010. Including productions with fellow Louis Den heads Jeekay, Beat Butcha, and Jaisu, and an LP with YNR label mate, Jyager. Jon also has productions on future releases from Jehst, Skandal, Black The Ripper, Verb T & hungarian rapper 'Speak', to name just a few.

    Keep your eyes and ears open for this man and be sure to peep his music available for free via jonphonics.bandcamp.com.

    The New School: Day Nine - BUG

    BUG BUG BUG, what can I say...beast on the boards, constantly evolving and winner of the 2009 league; 2010 marks the year he's out to leave a mark with his few releases surfacing!, check LuigiBo's write up..


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.





    Indica - BUG (THE NEW SCHOOL: DAY 9)

    By keeping up with the 2010 Louis Den Online League's Beat Battles, I stumbled upon this insane producer by the name of BUG.

    BUG has definitely earned the title "Producer" in my opinion. He is able to create atmospheres with his beats as well as make something that just plain knocks! No matter what style he's displaying, he never falls short of being dope. I don't believe it was a surprise to anyone when BUG was crowned the 2009 LDBB League Champ seeing as he was consistent the whole way through.

    BUG also has recently been included in a few compilations such as "Jus Like Music Records: Oscillations" and even was kind enough to give away his debut single "Cosmic Lab/20 winks" for free on his own bandcamp. Being only 24, he'll definitely be around for a while and you will want to keep you eyes and ears open for his work.


    Tuesday, 1 June 2010

    The New School: Day Eight - Myke Forte

    Myke's a good dude!!!, he first came to our attention back in the first Beat Cypher from October 2008, what was crazy was he came to the night armed with beats and his MPC2500 just in case there was an opportunity to get down; since then he built with myself and Kela and even took a trip down to London (solo) after work (he was based in Milton Keynes at the time) just to play some beats with us a the producers event "Beat Shed".

    He quickly started being a regular in the Den sessions and is now a permanent stay in Louis Den, here's Luigi's take on his beatmaking talents!


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.






    The ComeUp (Hunger) - Myke Forte (THE NEW SCHOOL: DAY 8)

    Unfortunately, I didn't find out about Myke Forte until the tail end of 2009 with the release of his Zodiac : Aries beat tape. Once I gave the tape a listen I was instantly blow away and found one of my new favorite producers.

    Listening to Forte's beats, you can definitely sense a strong Pete Rock influence. Myke is excellent at crafting mellow beats that sure to soothe your soul. Also being a member of the Louis Den movement, it's only a matter of time before Myke gets proper recognition.

    Be sure to catch up on his Zodiak series of beat tapes and keep a look out for future volumes as the continue to get better and show different sides of Myke.

    The New School: Day Seven - S-TYPE

    I've had the pleasure of knowing S-TYPE for a minute now and its sure as hell dope to see a whole bunch of heads all come up and begin to break in on the industry and yep S-TYPE is one of em check out LuigiBo's write up below as yet another LDBB head is featured on his New School series..


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.






    Award Winning - S-Type (THE NEW SCHOOL: DAY 7)

    Scottish producer S-Type released his infectious jazz influenced debut hip-hop 12", 'Soul For Your Stereo' featuring highly respected Detroit rapper Finale, at the ripe age of 18. Since then the 2008 Louisden league champion's beats have developed and progressed, drawing inspiration from all coasts and genres of hip hop as well as the myriad sub genres of electronica, leading to a powerful yet musical sound constructed from perfectly chopped samples and creatively played elements.

    This has led to recognition from respected sources, such as Dart Adams'selection of S-Type as one of his 'producers to watch' and his invitation, along with fellow Louisden alumni Jaisu (also his Tartan Bully cohort), Bug and Kelakovski, to appear at Red Bull Music Academy's recent Glasgow showcase.

    S-Type's beats definitely hold a lot of replay value and, with a beat tape due out soon along with production credits for Laws, Reks, Joe Scudda, Jay Rock and the forthcoming Grind Wit Me featuring Sheek Louch on Tek's Autumn album released on Duck Down, plenty more soul for your stereo is guaranteed.

    Sunday, 16 May 2010

    The New School: Day Six - Inphy


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.




    Inphy - Jay Z 99 Problems Remix (Instrumental)

    This guy is the best kept secret out of everyone on this list; banging out all the way from the Czech Republic we have Inphy.

    With a great ear for samples and drums you're sure to love his sound! Inphy is most definitely a graduate from the school of Pete Rock and is definitely going to be one of the torch carriers for the "classic boom-bap" sound in Hip-Hop.

    His remix of Little Brother's "Life Of the Party" sounds like it easily could have been the original. From the drums, to the samples, all the elements hit the mark and it compliments the accapella perfectly in my opinion! At the young age of 19, Inphy is only going to get better from here! Get familiiar now!

    The New School: Day Five - Jaisu





    Jaisu - Kosmos (f)/(st)ans will recognise it from his opening blap in beat cypher 2!

    Aite well continuing on LuigiBo's New School series (which he is running over at hiphop hypedog and we're dual posting here). Its the first of a few Louis Den residents that made the list in the form of Edinburgh heatmaker JAISU!. Lets see what they had to say about dude! - kos.



    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.


    This time we head across the pond to Edinburgh, Scotland to hear Louis Den regular Jaisu. If you're like me, you were lucky enough to randomly run across Jaisu's beat tape series on Youtube. If this is your first time hearing of him you're in for a treat!

    Jaisu's deft, creative chopping skills, neck breaking drums and deep warm basslines combine to give his beats a unique, captivating feel which will appeal to both boom bap purists and fans of a more modern, forward looking, sample based hip hop sound equally.

    The shooter and editor of Jaisu's beat tape series, ab0181, and the founder of Louis Den, Kosyne, featured him on their production DVD magazines: BCD 1 & 2. These DVDs, along with his production work for Sha Stimuli, Marvwon, Punchline, General Steele and on his fellow Beat Fanatic member Slopfunkdust's 'Smoker's Choice' project, are great starting points while you wait for his forthcoming, highly anticipated, beat tape to be released.

    The New School: Day Four - Nameless


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.





    Nameless - Emerald Dreams

    Nameless comes from Flint, Michigan. Nameless is an extremely versatile and talented producer who gives another reason for me to believe that there really is something in the water in Michigan.

    Nameless can do it all, from soul samples, video game samples, and originals that bang! Nameless even is dope in the fields of art and graphic design. I strongly suggest that you go to his Bandcamp site and just download everything. He has tons of bangers on all of his beat tapes, you won't be disappointed!

    Also, be on the lookout for his new tribute project "Don't Hurt Em Teddy P" dropping this Summer! On top of that he also has, "CORDLESS" [B. Corder + NAMELESS], and "16-Bit: Bonus Stages" and "HellCassell" planned for this sumer also.

    The New School: Day Three - J.Bizness


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.





    J. Bizness - Why

    Championing a West Coast vibe; Ontario, CA's own J. Bizness is finally getting the shine he deserves.

    J. Bizness has been making beats for 13 years and has scored placments with Trek Life, Little Brother, Buff 1, and Jimetta Rose. If you're looking for beats to just vibe out to, look no further than J.Bizness.

    You may have heard some of Biz's productions recently thanks to his 3P series with FWMJ.

    <a href="http://jbizness.bandcamp.com/album/fwmjs-rappers-i-know-presents-j-bizness-3p-series-vol-2">On The Regular feat. Mr. Sobers aka Maestro Montana by J.Bizness</a>

    Thursday, 13 May 2010

    BUG has won the Louis Den League 2009

    After deciding to enter the league last minute and being placed in division 3, he worked his way up to the Divsion 1 and managed to battle his way to the stop spot only taking 1 L along the way, during his race to the top BUG squared off against Prolifik, Cyril Snare
    Mazzie, Ed Strong, Dockmini, Ill Clinton, J-Trees and Half Baked. Big up BUG for taking the win and delivering some amazing beats!, shouts
    to Sivey and S-TYPE (league 08 winner) for coming in a respectable 2nd and 3rd in a very heated tournament with some very talented producers.




    Big up to Boombaptist, Ed Strong and Itchy Digits for coming first in the second division.







    Finally congrats to, J-Soul , Smith The Mister and Lucina Playmobile take 1st, 2nd and 3rd place respectively in Division 3.






    Thanks to everyone who took part in the league as either a producer or a regular voter; all the heads who turned up to the live stream/chat room and contributed samples, we'll be back later on this year with the 2010 league (hosting has already been copped!!) so expect more beatmaking madness and once again, big up BUG for coming through and taking the top spot, apologies for taking so long
    to wrap up the league! but theres nothing like closure eh?, we're done.

    LOUIS DEN LEAGUE 2009 IS OVER....PEACE!, we'll be back sooner than you think!

    Wednesday, 12 May 2010

    Jon Phonics - Half Past Calm 2 (free download)

    Half Past Calm 2 is finally here and boy is it serious!. The blurb follows but lemme give you my input!!.

    Half Past Calm 2 is the follow up to Jon's free LP he dropped a couple years back. For those who havent heard the free projects he's dropped since are in for treat as you'll hear how Jon's sound has evolved over the past couple; still maintaining the dirt,dust and grit found in his original LP theres the addition of his future funk elements as he encorporates more synth work and space age bounce into his signature sound found in his league heaters over last autumn and the free winter beat tape Jonathans Beats & Peices.

    Ok, here comes the official text!.



    Jon Phonics - Half Past Calm 2 [2010] (YNR)
    01 Intro.mp3
    02 Raw Ingredients (Feat. Cyrus Malachi & Jehst).mp3
    Buried Below The Ground (Feat. Micall Parknsun).mp3
    04 Pump (Feat. Fliptrix, Sonnyjim, Ramson Badbonez & Verb T).mp3
    05 Spirit Of The Golden Sun (Feat. 9 Planets).mp3
    06 Phonetically Obba (Feat. Obba Supa & Evil Ed).mp3
    07 Tug The Rope (Feat. Melanin 9).mp3
    08 Wrong Way (Feat. Prophet).mp3
    09 The Other Guy (Feat. Kosyne).mp3
    10 I See You (Feat. Kal Sereousz).mp3
    11 Dark Days (Feat. Fliptrix & Jam Baxter).mp3
    12 Mind Over Matter (Feat. Verb T & Kashmere).mp3
    13 Rabbit Jab (Feat. Masikah).mp3
    14 Road Rage (Feat. Nasheron & Melanin 9 of Triple Darkness).mp3
    15 Changes (Feat. T-Bear & Yasine).mp3

    LINK 1: Sign up to the mailing list here to receive a link in your email.
    LINK 2: http://www.sendspace.com/file/hcgtqc


    The wait is over people... Jon Phonics' 'Half Past Calm 2' is finally here! Showcasing the production talents of one of the UK's finest, alongside the cream of the countries MC talent including YNR's very own Jehst, Kashmere, Verb T & Micall Parknsun, extended fam Triple Darkness, Eat Good Records' Sonnyjim & Kosyne, Ramson Badbonez, Jam Baxter & more. Jon has once again provided an eclectic audio snap-shot of what the UK scene has to offer to Hip Hop in 2010.

    Sign up to our YNR Newsletter to receive your free download! That's right... FREE!!! You can also head over to our shop to cop 1 of 300 Limited Edition CD's with hand-printed 4-ply booklet and inlay/poster courtesy of Brixton Basement Press. This collectors item is guaranteed to disappear fast and is only available from YNR and Suspect Packages. So don't sleep!.

    The New School: Day Two - B.Lewis


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.



    Hurt Hurt Go Away - B.Lewis (THE NEW SCHOOL: DAY 2)


    Lewis is a producer from San Jose, California and 1/3 of the group Alora along with RU and Insightful. Lewis started making beats about a year and a half ago and has picked up pretty fast! With a forte in sampling dreamy doo-wop and classic jazz records and his hooks that have that "Take em to Church" feeling to them.

    As a heads up, Lewis' new one is dropping in a couple weeks its called Mercury Backburner.

    The New School: Day One - Xperiment


    * the following post is a summary/swipe of "THE NEW SCHOOL" series penned by LuigiBo87 and posted at hiphophypedog, Louis Den are covering the articles as LDBB fam are also featured!.


    Xperiment - Wait & See

    After moving to Colorado from San Antonio in 2000, Xperiment found a love for Hip Hop music and began to try his hand at beat making. After 9 years of hard work and self teaching, he's finally ready to take over with his unique style of beats.

    Having already worked with artists such as Sunkenstate, Curren$y, Braille, and more, Xperiment is definitely one to keep your eyes and ears on!

    The New School from LuigiBo87

    Music head and blap aficionando LuigiBo87 has been dipping his toes into producer centred blogs/releases/compilations via the hiphophypedog blog and twitter, bringing you his Best Of Beats 2009 compilation at the top of this year to his Dust Of The NES compilation which featured 8-bit / chiptune inspired beats.

    This time round (in association with hypedog) he plans to bring you 10 producers to watch for 2010, with some of the list containing Louis Den affiliates we figured we'd may as well mirror his posts here and let you know who else you should be watching out for and hopefully put you onto some new producers!.

    lets goo.

    Tuesday, 11 May 2010

    Homework 61 - I Usually Rock Around 120 BPM


    Ok the Little Brother sample flip challenge was dope, a lot of usual names missing from the mix (come on people!!) but still some great offerings including a full remix EP of little brother accas/samples from Evil Needle..crazy!, ok so this time round we're going to a homework suggestion and is a lot more open to interpretation and not necessarily sample based..lets do it.


    Homework 61 - I Usually Rock About 120 BPM


    *challenge suggested by S-TYPE


    This week we figured going for something a little more different; poached form the "homework suggestions thread" over at the louisden forums S-TYPE suggested having a set BPM challenge rather than a sample theme or flip.

    So why not try it out!, the rules are simple; make a beat at this particular tempo!!..theres a lot of scope for some cross genre business (thats not an invite to turn some europop or hiphouse!), just try and keep it funky, to inspire you here are some 110+ BPM hiphop joints you would have heard in the past (just a random selection


    LINKS/RESOURCES
    A few songs 110 BPM+ to get some ideas!!
    De La Soul - A Rollerskating Jam Named Saturday
    De La Soul - Me Myself and I
    Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth - The Creator
    Wu Tang - Gravel Pit
    EPMD Ft LL - Rampage
    Joe Budden ft Busta Rhymes - Fire



    RULES


    To turn in a fresh beat (samples/non sampled anythings cool) which is at 120 BPM, email entries to homework@louisden.com, ideally attach the mp3 straight we dont really want to be messing with download wait limits and captcha codes!.



    DEADLINE


    23rd May 2010 (extended!), lab session will be around 18:00 we dont wanna chase links in the session!!..we'll be broadcasting live from the lab at http://tinyurl.com/ldbblive newcomers are welcome!! just email your beats over and get in!.



    peace



    kos.