Research and translation assistance by Yuri (@seoulocello) Featuring lyric translations from the Epik High Translations blog Introduction: Times Square Before I can ask an exhausted Eddie Nam any questions, he claims a victory. … Dive In about Epik High is Still Here
Main Content
Fresh Out the Kitchen
The Beauty of Independence with Cal Scruby
Featured Sauce
In Conversation with Dende: “In Case You Forgot I’m BLACK”
Cover art captured from “In Case You Forgot I’m BLACK” (Shot/edited by Jordan “JTek” Cardona) Trigger Warning: The short film that is the subject of this interview contains graphic footage and symbolism of police brutality. This … Dive In about In Conversation with Dende: “In Case You Forgot I’m BLACK”
MUSIC DISCOVERY
Why We Like It: Kai Straw’s “Bleeding Out in the 415”
Kai Straw is back with another intense composition based in synthy keys and harrowing vocals that push an idea of acceptance. “Bleeding Out in the 415” is a dance with travesty, a battle hymnal that keeps you moving.
Why We Like It: Paul Grant’s “Connection (Remix)” Ft. Brittney Carter
A bare instrumental is like an abstract landscape waiting to be filled with the listener’s impression. The remix is a snapshot of that imprint. Paul Grant’s “Connection” paints with lo-fi strings and a splash of funk that sends Brittney Carter down a lyrical journey into building confidence from trials put behind.
Why We Like It: ASTN’s “What’s It Gonna Take”
22-year-old Florida Native ASTN croons about toxic and youthful love through a wildly mature-sounding instrumental composition and display of vocal prowess. “What’s It Gonna Take” is a romantic chase through a poppy R&B song with dynamic reach.
Why We Like It: Niia’s “We Were Never Friends” Ft. Solo Woods
Niia and Solo Woods present their own unique version of a flex on my ex song with “We Were Never Friends.” The duo layer their vocals elegantly over subtle production that brings out the gentle harmonies.
Why We Like It: Masati’s “Intoxicated Truth” (CentralSauce Premiere)
Premiering on CentralSauce is Dallas based R&B crooner Masati’s new addictive single “Intoxicated Truth.” The track’s a yearning and driving ballad that explores the in between area of a difficult relationship.
Why We Like It: Anuka’s “Ode to my Ex”
We often block out the pain of reflecting on failed relationships, but Anuka suggests that the associated pain doesn’t mean it’s a failure. “Ode to my Ex” is a wispy ballad that knows the value of taking its time.
Why We Like It: Critical Mischief & Cameron Bolden’s “Quicksand!”
Over a precarious loop, Critical Mischief and Cameron Bolden look for hope through hardship on “Quicksand!” Their raps bring to mind the low points but search for beauty in the vallies.
Why We Like It: Mickey Woods Jr’s “rockin’, rollin’”
Mickey Woods Jr is a rolling stone on “rockin’ rollin’.” he takes the highs and lows of life head-on but at a pace that’s comfortable to him. It’s a dynamic rap track with some harmonic bones.
Why We Like It: Bairi’s “Free”
Bairi aka Bairi The Siren emerges with a buttery new ballad about romantic centering. “Free” is wistful and sprawling with an instrumental that settles over a space like a weighted blanket.
Why We Like It: Kabwasa’s “Dreamer”
“Dreamer” by Kabwasa is an upbeat ode to chasing dreams and pushing them to evolve even as we approach them. Featuring elegant vocals from Ayoni, the track is both reflective and inspirational.
Why We Like It: Noha Saré’s “LOST”
On her second single, “LOST,” eerie R&B architect Noha Saré builds on her unique blend of exhilaration and confrontation. It’s an enchanting melody for Saré to weave spellbinding vocals.
Why We Like It: Haiku’s “Peace of Mind”
With her heart in her hand, Haiku embraces “Peace of Mind” as she trust falls back into music and reminds us it’s okay to take a step away when we need to find clarity. Her raps are gentle and comforting with a sing-songy musicality in the revelry.
Featured Interviews
The Beauty of Independence with Cal Scruby
The Beauty of Independence is an ongoing series in which Ben Carter (of HipHopNumbers) chats with independent artists about the challenges and the triumphs of existing outside of the major label system. These are the stories rarely told because these are the artists doing it all themselves. Discover the beauty of having total creative … Continue Reading... about The Beauty of Independence with Cal Scruby
Trust Tate, “Real Reasons,” Life, & Purpose
Trigger Warning: Imagery of gun violence "On April 21st, 1994, New York Times Magazine featured a 7 month old infant struck by stray gunfire. Rapper, Producer, Engineer, College Graduate… I am that infant. 27 years later... this is my story..." This was how the heading description read for New Jersey-based rapper/producer Trust … Continue Reading... about Trust Tate, “Real Reasons,” Life, & Purpose
The Chilly, Exhilarating Notes of Native Son
Ano Chrispin almost gave up on music… but when the pandemic switched things up, the versatile artist returned to old habits, turning out ‘Metro Dread,’ a gorgeous record that examines race, identity, belonging, cynicism, and the relentless pace of the everyday. Five years ago, Ano Chrispin made a quick decision. “We had just started … Continue Reading... about The Chilly, Exhilarating Notes of Native Son
Suede Seats at Jaywop’s House
In the wake of his excellent debut album, Suede, Tacoma-by-Phoenix emcee Jaywop is making big moves – and they're all going according to his grand, ambitious plan. A conversation with Jaywop is a sharp, revelatory thing. It doesn’t matter whether you’re sorely unaware or a devoted fan – hearing the man talk just seems to explain a … Continue Reading... about Suede Seats at Jaywop’s House
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