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_thesmoothcat and Wino Willy are ‘Ready, Set’ on fresh new album

_thesmoothcat and Wino Willy have dropped off a fresh new album, titled Ready, Set. Hypnotic and refreshing, this potent new record finds the two creative, eclectic artists discovering a common ground with jazzy, psychedelic soundscapes. Wino Willy’s dusty, astral instrumentals suit the focused musings of _thesmoothcat, who drops verse after verse of engaging material. Introspective and hypnotic, Ready, Set presents a wide variety of jazz-tinged soundscapes drenched in an otherworldly atmosphere that sets this record apart. From the glowing, pensive sonics of “Brand New”, to the lo-fi abstractions of “OFFTOP”, Ready, Set is a mind-expanding record from two artists deeply in their bag creatively.

Regarding the conception of Ready, Set and the unique circumstances that led to the record coming together- in late 2020, beat-maker/ producer Charles Corpening ( Wino Willy ) took a gig mixing a live- stream for a mural dedication in New Orleans featuring a performance by  _thesmoothcat ( Josh Henderson) &  9th Life. Corpening was so moved by their sound that he captured the raw audio on the spot and began flipping it as soon as he got home.  The levity and joy in the streets that he heard in Josh’s music in contrast to the darkness of the times conjured feelings of his youth in Philadelphia and the cultural similarities across both cities. Shortly after, he reached out to Josh and the collaboration that led to Ready, Set was born.

Take a listen to _thesmoothcat and Wino Willy’s refreshing new album Ready, Set here- an LP full of life and self-awareness that reflects the two artists’ outside-the-box approach and poignant work ethic. Support the artists directly on BandCamp HERE.

Watch the music video for “OFFTOP” here:

Connect with _thesmoothcat: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter

Connect with Wino Willy: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter

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Degree and BhramaBull share potent offering, ‘You Are Your Art’

Emcee Degree, of BSF Records, and prolific producer BhramaBull have connected for a new EP called You Are Your Art. This project presents a potent meeting of minds, with personality-rich, soulful instrumentals from BhramaBull providing Degree with the correct canvas to paint his true-to-life, detailed lyricism.

From the get-go, the meditative keyboard riffs and streetwise verses of “Under The Gun” captivate, while “Bravo”‘s warm but wistful sonics present a solid follow up. The orchestral, nostalgic instrumental and focused vocals on “Insomnia” feel refreshing, and the introspective, elegant “Bullet Proof Jeep”, with Pat Ron, makes for a highlight later in the track-listing.

Give Degree and BhramaBull’s latest offering, the poignant You Are Your Art, a listen here now:

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Dray Taylor shares focused song, “Lifted”

Dray Taylor is back on our pages with a new song called “Lifted”. A refreshing emcee with a penchant for heartfelt bars and soulful sonics, Taylor continues to fly unfairly under the radar despite having a consistent, quality output. “Lifted” presents an uplifting, focused offering from Taylor, as he weaves together thoughtful lyrics atop a tapestry of rich, airy vocal samples, punchy percussion, and lively bass. With an eye for detail in his verses, and an inspiring feel, Taylor drops off a vital offering with “Lifted”. Give it a listen here:

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Andre Masters shares cinematic visual for “Sum Of Salt”

Andre Masters has dropped off a new visual for his song “Sum Of Salt”, produced by Comma Uno. Appearing on his solid recent album ACETONE, “Sum Of Salt”‘s laid-back, jazzy sounds and reflective lyricism give it rich character. “Sum Of Salt” stands out as a poignant, focused song from ACETONE, and the visual reflects its sharply-crafted, refreshing mood. Shot by Loukas Costi, the video captures vivid scenery, a laid-back feel, and a relaxed performance from Masters that all enhance the track’s atmospherics. Give it a watch here now, and be sure to check out the remainder of Andre Masters’ jazzy, potent album ACETONE while you’re at it.

Listen to ACETONE here:

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mynameisntjmack connects with Blvck Svm for refreshing single “newhihat”

mynameisntjmack has connected with Blvck Svm for a fresh song called “newhihat”. Virginia artist mynameisntjmack is a rapper and songwriter known for his introspective lyrics, genre-bending soundscapes, and captivating live performances. His potent, thoughtful lyrics tackle topics such as identity, mental health, and self-discovery, offering listeners a glimpse into his inner world. Based in Chicago, Blvck Svm draws on a diverse range of influences, from hip-hop to ambient and more, to create a sound that is both raw, character-rich and innovative. Together, they sound natural and effortless atop the laid-back, shimmering instrumental on “newhihat”. Their chemistry shines through as they lace together potent rhymes atop warm, smooth horns, crisp percussion, and engaging bass grooves. Give mynameisntjmack and Blvck Svm’s latest song “newhihat” a listen here now:

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Estiee shares vibrant new video for “BLOSSOM”

Eclectic emcee, producer, and entrepreneur Estiee has shared a new video for his song “BLOSSOM”. The self-produced track is a vibrant, uplifting cut that displays a focused, intentional feel with its soulful production and energetic vocal performance. With an infectious positivity laced into warm strings, triumphant horns, and a rich bass-line- paired with Estiee’s present, charismatic vocals, “BLOSSOM” is a strong new track from Estiee. The video captures the track’s easy-going confidence with crisp, true-to-life shots that give it a refreshing potency. Check out Estiee’s latest offering “BLOSSOM” here and be sure to watch for more from him.

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528ron and Manast LL’ share elegant visual for “Grand Budapest”

528ron and Manast LL’ have dropped off a fresh video for their song “Grand Budapest”. Containing elegant, evocative production and detail-rich, true-to-life rhymes while expressing a natural chemistry between 528ron and Manast LL’, “Grand Budapest” presents a highlight song off the duo’s recent collaborative album Same Shit More Money Less Friends. With an abstract feel grounded by a sense of lyrical realism, “Grand Budapest”‘s ethereal edge and immersive sonics give it a character-rich, unique feel. The new video, which features refreshing, vivid shots and a slick, laid-back performance, draws the viewer in while emcee Manast LL’ shines with his potent, dynamic delivery and rich lyricism. Give the video for “Grand Budapest” a watch here now:

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cropscropscrops and Vaygrnt drop off immersive deluxe version of ‘from here, out there’ album

cropscropscrops and Vaygrnt have dropped off a new deluxe version of their album from here, out there, featuring 4 additional tracks. With cropscropscrops on the mic and Vaygrnt on the boards, the duo demonstrate a natural chemistry while bringing forth a potent, expressive set of abstract hip-hop tracks that entice from the get-go. from here, out there paints potent, character-rich pictures that feel detail oriented throughout, and the new 4 tracks they add enhance this. The vignettes that cropscropscrops delivers on “hands”, backed by Vaygrnt’s tapestry of rich, off-kilter sampling, feel immersive and focused. “out of the woods”, featuring Static Res, is a psychedelic, weaving joint that enticingly blends in different genre influences- while “boulangerie POM”‘s wistful, laid-back feel translates to a unique listen that captures the record’s left-field, DIY ethos.

Montreal-based abstract rapper and producer, cropscropscrops, breaks the mold. With a unique blend of narrative-driven lyricism and experimental production, he’s been steadily building a name and then refining it with every release. After self-producing his debut project, “What Can Live In This Room?” in 2022, he’s shifted to collaborating with boundary-pushing producers to craft projects that transport listeners into a new world each time. His 2023 EP, “w/ a window,” is a jazzy, lo-fi, 4 tracks reminiscent of a bustling 2010s independent art-rap scene. “from here, out there,” his new 2024 collab album with NY producer Vaygrnt, is a conceptual travel-journal that expands on the immersive lo-fi ambience of past work while turning the poetic verses up another notch.

Hailing from NY outskirts, experimental hip-hop producer Vaygrnt has been cultivating a devoted following and music community while consistently building a one-of-a-kind catalogue. His production, often genre-bending, crafts immersive environments where listeners vividly picture their surroundings. With drums teetering on the brink, samples bent and mangled to his will, and ideas that crescendo over a track’s runtime, Vaygrnt’s music transcends conventions, offering a journey into the uncharted territories of experimental lo-fi.

Listen to the boundary-pushing duo’s latest offering from here, out there (deluxe) here now:

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Corbin Adler shares potent new single, “EAT THE RICH”

Corbin Adler has dropped off a new song, titled “EAT THE RICH”. This powerful, sonically lush single contains a resonant feel and sharp songwriting that gives it added character and an immersive sense of depth. With elegant, hazy instrumentation centred around rising synth layers and potent grooves that create a solid foundation for Adler’s silky yet commanding vocals. With an ethereal quality underpinned with a powerful delivery, Adler’s vocals soar with a glowing sound that captivate from the get-go.

Corbin Adler’s music is often characterized by luscious alternative R&B sonics, orchestral flourishes, and themes around love and lust. His latest offering, “EAT THE RICH”, makes for an engaging, infectious addition to his growing discography that puts his focused songwriting and unique vocal style on display. Give it a listen here now and be sure to connect with Corbin Adler for more soon.

Connect with Corbin Adler: Spotify | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

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“Fly”: A Motivational Anthem for Reaching New Heights

By: LevelUpLoot

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, pushing ourselves relentlessly to achieve our goals. “Fly,” a dynamic rap/hip-hop song, taps into this universal experience, delivering a powerful message of perseverance and determination.

With its infectious hook—”No one knows it’s time to say bye, can’t stop keep working, won’t rest till I die, life’s a race moving soaring passing you by, you learn crawl then you walk sprint and then you fly”—”Fly” resonates with anyone striving to elevate their game in pursuit of their dreams.

This motivational anthem inspires listeners to feel good, never give up, and reach new heights. Its energetic and smooth flow, coupled with a catchy melodic sung chorus, creates an irresistible combination that compels the listener to press repeat.

“Fly” is more than just a song—it’s a call to action. It urges us to break free from limitations, defy expectations, and soar to our fullest potential. So, whether you’re facing challenges in your career, personal life, or any other endeavor, let “Fly” be the soundtrack to your journey toward greatness.

Press play, turn up the volume, and let the empowering lyrics and infectious beats of “Fly” propel you forward on your path to success.