Guilty Giraffe's Dreamy and Transformative Sound Shines On Their Self-Titled Album

Westchester’s trail blazing quartet, Guilty Giraffe, released their self-titled EP last Friday showcasing the bands guitar shredding sound, grungy aroma and dynamic blend of subgenre that graciously form into one magnificent record. A collage of both new and previously recorded songs, Guilty Giraffe illustrates a guitar-leading album that’s aggressive, breezy; yet experimental with every growling vocal and acrobatic rifts. 

Forged by lead singer/guitarist Mathew McGinnis and former drummer Felipe Reis, the Yonkers-based outfit released their debut album, “A Time to Slime,” in 2015. After signing with independent record label, Mint 400 Records, Guilty Giraffe released their sophomore album, “Server Error.” Subsequently, the band linked up with new members Will Vellek (guitarist), Shane Sumano (bass) and Kevin Knebel who came on as drummer after Reis’s departure from the band in 2018. The band released their lead single/video to their song, “Washed Out,” this past January ahead of their self-titled release.

FILMED AND EDITED BY ORION PERENYI. RECORDED AND MIXED BY WILL VELLEK. MASTERED BY SAM STAUFF.

Known for their raspy post-hardcore style, Guilty Giraffe throws down a compelling and enchanting production with the album’s kick-off song “Babyface.” The cool electrifying guitar play by Vellek, and unique vocal charm by McGinnis, reign supreme on this track. The grungy pop-centric melodies of “Kmart Goth” and “Xanax” also illustrate Mat’s crooning vocals and the band’s energizing licks that are fueled with noisy elements and masterful effect pedals. 

On the LP’s lead single and visual, “Washed Out,” Guilty Giraffe portrays their dreamy guitar play and spellbinding pop aromas with enticing vocals and charming melodies. While on “Try and Figure,” the grungy-esque flare and surreal atmosphere pulls the album together perfectly with signature amps and a killer breakdown. The quartet’s airy production, “Cool as a Fan,” showcases their talent on experimentation and reach of their composition. 

Will Vellek (far left), Mat McGinnis (center left), Kevin Knebel (center right), Shane Sumano (far right)

Embedded with a grungy slime-rock sound, Guilty Giraffe captivates audiences with their cloudy aesthetics, ingenuous pedal play and soothingly wholesome vocals that are displayed masterfully through every song. With their distinct creativity and transformative sound, Guilty Giraffe have solidified themselves as one of the leading emerging indie bands coming out of the Westchester DIY scene. A band that’s a must watch, and listen, for those seeking a fresh sound in this genre.

Catch Guilty Giraffe at Margarita’s in Yonkers tonight for their album release party. Listen/follow Guilty Giraffe today: available now on all streaming platforms.

Guilty Giraffe

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The Car Bomb Parade Gives Us A Thrashing Energized Record On "Opiate For Madness"

Hardcore, two-steppin’ and riff thrashing their way across New York - it’s The Car Bomb Parade! This petal-to-the-metal hardcore/punk band is having us all whiplashed from their impressively wicked new record “Opiate For Madness.”

With an album cover reminiscent of Three Monkeys and The Russian Sleep Experiment, this record truly is a dark-minded warped thrash-fest that illustrates the awesome power of this four-piece band.

CBP kicks off their album with a heavy thrashing melt-down reality session about how f**ked society is on “Generation F**ked.” Their energized riffs and concrete bashing sound is even more superb on “Original Hardcore Mentality.” On “Live For This, Die For This,” CBP delivers an anthem for all “the punks, skins and hardcore kids” that’ll pump up any arena or stadium. With sick vocals, a vividly electric guitar line and knuckle-pounding beats - this track is one of our favorites.

With a call to fk everything on, “Fck The World,” and a respect-driven piece on, “Half-Mast White Flags,” The Car Bomb Parade is one of the scenes leading punk-metal bands and their raw, intense don’t-give-a-f**k attitude is pure New York punk at its finest. A true grind and first raise to all us deaerates that want to speak our mind.

It’s why we couldn’t find better band to grace the stage at The Underground for our scene and hood.

We’re musicians. We’re artists. We’re here. We’re The Bronx!

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The Car Bomb Parade

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Trippie Redd Unreils His Beautiful, Yet Messy Voyage, of Complex Emotions on "Life's A Trip"

With his signature screeches and melancholic melodies, Trippie Redd released his debut album, “Life’s A Trip,” last month that illustrates the young emcees beautiful, yet messy voyage of complex emotions and unapologetic honesty across his two solid deliveries: hip-hop and punk rock.

Raised in Canton, OH, Trippie Redd gained famed and notoriety in 2015 after releasing a series of mixtapes and videos that went viral across SoundCloud and YouTube. His unique versatile style of combining emo/cloud-rap, with the rebellious energy of garage and punk rock, made him an instant sensation online that accelerated his rise amongst audiences looking towards hip-hop to endure the struggles of depression and drug use.

“Life’s A Trip” is one of Redd’s finest works to date. A bold record that allows the emo-rapper to unveil his highest glowing melodies and viciously precise bars, all while confronting his deepest emotions and personal endeavors over hollow guitar riffs and some of the best trap/boom-bap production this year.

 The heavy hitters on this record, “Bang” and “Bird Sh$t,” showcases Redd’s unique vocal expressions, with an inviting lyrical approach that’s bolstered with smooth head-boppin’ productions. His feature with Travis Scott on, “Dark Knight Domino” (the albums leading single), also displayed Trippie’s trap/cloud roots, illustrating a stern musical approach and heart pumping beats that masterfully aligns with Scott’s lyrical depth and genre-binding arrangements.

Directed by White Trash Tyler - Music video by Trippie Redd & Travis Scott (C) 2018 TenThousand Projects, LLC

 Trippie Redd draws out his honesty on the hauntingly scorn opener, “Together,” where he croons, “I gotta keep it together ain’t no tweakin’ now / I gotta pull it together ain’t no holdin’ on.” His subsequent track, “Taking A Walk,” is a witty obituary that’s fluid with stuntin’ vibes, vivid imagery and autumn-esque flows that fall gracefully with every crawl.

Redd draws out his hip-hop roots, however, on “Missing My Idols,” “Oomps Revenge” and “Gore” that’s ripe with sharp lyricism and fiery-engulfed flows. 

On “Missing My Idols,” Trippie pulls out his Lil Wayne card with a Weezy-esque style shout out to his idol, while also grilling the competition, as he accounts for his inspirations.

In the soul gripping, “Oomps Revenge,” Trippie showcases his lyricism with a laid back vibe and meticulously refunded bars. He draws out his emotions again by acknowledging those who’ve stood with him - both past and present - throughout his struggles and those who’ve shoved him aside during his journey to the top. “I don’t think they get me/Build a legacy and hope my n***as be up with me/,” he spits, “And everyone that’s with me/I used to feel alone, but I know my brothers soul is with me/I know oompas soul is with me.”

Official Music Video | Diplo - Wish (feat. Trippie Redd). BBTV_MadDecent, [Merlin] BecauseMusic (on behalf of Mad Decent); UMPG Publishing, Create Music Publishing, BMG Rights Management, CMRRA, Abramus Digital, ASCAP, Downtown Music Publishing, and 9 Music Rights Societies

On “Gore,” Trippie spits that heat over a ripely ill beat that shatters audio systems. Redd defiantly croons, “Even if it kills me, imma win,” with a liquidly fresh melody and soaked up bars that electrifies a thunderous delivery.

As one of the most polarizing and versatile young artists to ascend from the cloud/trap genre, Trippie Redd’s debut album excels in both sound, storytelling and lyricism. The record strips away at the Ohio emcees most emotional undertones, which reconciles his strength, empathy and self-preservation. 

At a time where mental health is such a pressing issue in our society, and it’s profound impact across the hip-hop space, Trippie Redd sustains himself as a beacon of light for many of his listeners and peers experiencing the same challenges. Though his complex ability to reach across genres, Trippie Redd’s music has already defined a generation that’s trying to keep it together and how faltering now is not an option.

Add “Life’s A Trip” to your playlist today.

Trippie Redd

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The Internet Delivers A Smooth, Concise & Sleek New Album With "Hive Mind"

Sharp, sexy and refined - the R&B outfit, The Internet, released their fourth album, Hive Mind, last month as the band continues to showcase their artistic approach towards meshing the sounds of soul, funk, hip-hop and jazz. 

Coming off the heels of their breakthrough Grammy nominating album, Ego Death, The Internet offers us more of a holistically entrenched production that blossoms with robust compositions, groovy basslines and a seductive attitude bleeding with stories of passion, control and lust.

Initially presented as an Odd Future one-off project, the alternative jazz/R&B band were formed by singer-songwriter Sydney Bennett (aka Syd the Kid or Syd) and producer Matthew Martians. The two quickly teamed up with bassist Patrick Paige II, drummer Christopher Smith and producer/singer-songwriter Steve Lacey, ring quickly up the ranks in the contemporary R&B and urban jazz space.

The Internet's "Roll (Burbank Funk)" taken from the new album HIVE MIND - Director: Joe Weil Producer: Sam Canter Co-Producer: Christian Sutton Prod.

The Internet distinguished themselves early from many of their independent counterparts with the release of their debut album, Purple Naked Ladies (2011), and illustrating their writing and musicianship on their second album Feel Good (2013). 2015's, Ego Death, hit the billboard Top Ten and nominated for a Grammy in the category of "Best Urban Contemporary Album."

After a brief hiatus to work on solo projects, The Internet brought back their musical talents on Hive Minds solidifying a retro-contemporary and fusion jazz/R&B record that's bold, sleek and invigorating. 

On the chorus singing opener, "Come Together," The Internet showcases their bread & butter with a clever jazzy piece ripe with addictive guitar play, smooth baselines and a surrounding vocal of the bandmates singing in harmony. An ironic response to their nearly three year absence from recording together. The Internet gets down and funky with "Roll (Burbank Funk)" that's perfect for any dance floor this summer. With an infectious beat, erotic synths and instructive melodies, The Internet opens the album beautiful from this record.

The Internet's "Come Over" is taken from the new album HIVE MIND - Director: Syd Executive Producers: Nathan Scherrer & Jeff Kopchia Producers: Tiffany Suh

Syd's signature vocals on the provocative and flirtatiously rich, "Come Over," breathes passion and seduction atop of a nasty guitar riff by Steve Lacey. Syd's sensual melodies and gushy romanticism longs to see her soon-to-be lover intimately alone at her place. On the gorgeously brilliant "Next Time/Humble Pie," The Internet truly displays the evolution of their musical composition and production, as two songs are combined into one, narrating Syd's back-and-forth love game with a woman whose caught her eye.

Some of the final cuts off this phenominal record, "Beat Goes On" and "Wanna Be," display Syd's and Martians' leading affects on the band through their vivid storytelling, hip-hop driven beats and innovative arrangements that maximize The bands musical approach. On the Martians lead "Beat Goes On," the song's alluring production, soul-centered groove and jammed-out beat makes for another great dance record to get your two-step on. While Syd's "Wanna Be," gives listeners another hauntingly romantic tale of longtime friends flirting with the idea of being lovers.

The Internet's "La Di Da" is taken from the new album HIVE MIND - Directed by Matt Martians, Produced by Jeff Kopchia, Edited by Syd and Shot by Alan Lear, Bryant

Hive Mind's brilliance is centered between the cross roads of where The Internet's diverse sounds and unsegmented versatility meet. With alluring compositions and stellar arrangements, The execution on this album is flawless and some of the smoothest and concise music The Internet has released to date. It's why "Hive Mind" is a must have album on your summer playlist and one that's perfect to listen and dance.

The Internet

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Rebelution Vibes Out On The Breezy and Consciously Smooth "Free Rein"

With those breezy and conscious Cali-Island rhythms, Rebelution's new album, Free Rein, is a perfect record for those blazing hot summer days to keep you vibed out and chill.

The Santa Barbara-based band released their seventh studio album last month and it’s a fantastic acoustic/reggae-dub record that showcases the veteran band’s authenticity, lifestyle and care-free living.

Rebelution takes on a very acoustic and slow-jam approach with tracks such as, "Healing" and "Constellation," which are perfect for those on-the-sand acoustic sessions by the Pacific. On "Healing," Rebelution offers listeners with a gentle acoustic and tranquil vocals that would have the likes of Peter Frampton and Eric Clapton smiling. On "Constellation," the cali-based band tones down the temp further with smooth moonlight energy, Americana vibes and a moody approach.

"Healing” - Rebelution off their new album, Free Rein. Available Now on 87 Music / Easy Star Records.

Yet, Rebelution keeps to their trademark sound and reggae-So Cal roots with songs such as, "Celebrate," "City Life," "Settle Down Easy" and "Patience." These gems are perfect for this summers backyard bbq's, late afternoon beach tanning, and of course, passing around some Mary Jane around the bonfire. 

Their reggae roots are truly shown on "Celebrate" and "City Life" with positive lyrics, vivid storytelling and a refreshing ocean kiss that grasps your spine with iced out vibes and island grooves. "Settle Down Easy" and "Patience" are other reggae-centric tracks that keeps the Mary Jane bright and relaxing rythms to ease down your day.

Rebelution's authenticity, positive attitude and laid-back antics, with both a reggae and indie rock feel, is why this band remains a primary go-to when you need to cheer to the good life.

Add Rebelution's, Free Rein, to your beach house playlist this summer!

Rebelution

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Kid Cudi and Kanye West Confront Their Own Demons On "KIDS SEE GHOSTS"

Kanye West and Kid Cudi released their long-awaited collaborative album this month under the project, KIDS SEE GHOSTS, highlighting their strong chemistry, unapologetic honesty and distinctive approaches. 

With both artists dealing with their fair share of mental illness, the seven-track record is a complex account of both artists’ honesty, self-reflection, doubt, confessions and rehabilitation. 

Through Ye’s candid lyricism and innate storytelling the legendary producer shines with one of his finest works. Along with Cudi’s crooning melodies, emotional depths and vocal truths, the album symbolizes a turning point for both artists and an impressive account of how we tackle some of our deepest demons. 

Our fav tracks on this one: ‘Reborn,’ ‘Free,’ ‘Kids See Ghosts’ and ‘Cudi Montage.’ 

Add to your weekly playlist today!

Kid Cudi

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Nas Battles Social Unrest, Political Upheaval & Gun Violence on "Nasir"

As today’s fragile society & divisive politics disintegrates into chaos each day, it’s fitting that hip hop guides us back to one of its most prolific storytellers and curator of urban social issues. 

In his 11th studio album, NAS’s new project is one of the most anticipated albums of 2018 and the 4th installment of a series of produced works by Kayne West in June. “Nasir” showcases both artists current critique of today’s increasingly vial social issues that span from police brutality, gun violence, domestic violence and the means of success. 

Nas and Ye waste no time on their thoughts on the police brutality epedemic with the Slick Rick sampled, ‘Cops Shot The Kid.’ The album also opens with a powerful protest song, ‘Not For The Radio’ feat. Diddy, that highlights the power of Black America through historical truths and tribulations. One of our favorite tracks, ‘Everything’ Feat. The-Dream & Ye, tackles success and self-reflection on how such blessings play a role to make a change in society. 

With an incredible production from Kanye and a powerful lyrical and curating account of today’s issues by Queens Bridge’s finest, Nas proves once again that he stands among the greats to have ever wielded the mic. 

Add “Nasir” to your playlist this week.

Nas

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Drake Draws Emotion & Raw Vulnerabilty On Scorpion

In one of the most anticipated albums of 2018, Drake released his fifth studio album, Scorpion, last month in the midst of controversy, success and a scathing diss track from Pusha T that revealed Drake was hiding a child. The beef between Pusha T and Drake provided the ultimate prologue to what would become one of the central themes in Scorpion that had gossip blogs, newsfeed trolls and the entire hip-hop community buzzing.

On Pusha T’s, “The Story of Adidon,” the veteran emcee ripped Drake by claiming the OVO boss hid the existence of his son to make him the cornerstone of a marketing campaign for Drake’s new Addidas clothing line. The out-of-left-field allegation not only affected Drake’s credibility as an emcee (a diss track that hardly any rapper can come back from), but also Drake’s charming image, business accruement and the public persona - as simply - one of the “good guys” in a genre still filled with lust, glamour and violence.

Despite the backlash on his early fatherhood, Drake’s 25-track opus is a prolific account of the Toronto emcee’s/singer’s egotistical vulnerability, brutal honesty, unapologetic protection with success and the moral and psychological makeup of bad decisions with women. On top of these general Drizzy themes is an album that’s backed by one hell of a production helmed by Noah “40” Shebib, Boi-1-Da and other young production greats that helped give Scorpion its opulent and engaging sound.

The records gorgeous texture, and musical depth, is masterful woven with 40’s moody and euphoric compositions, smooth Afrobeat and a soulful kick reminiscent of Drake’s earlier works such as in Take Care and Nothing Was The Same. The doubled sided album displays two of Drake’s primary musical palettes - hip-hop and R&B – that he helped pioneer as a single genre: one where the synthesis of rapping/singing are the benchmark to his keys of success.

On side A, Drake’s riveting lyricism, signature metaphors and melodic approach expresses the emcees consistent style and mic-gripping execution that’s rich with an anxious charm, savvy punch-lines and provocative hooks.

On the album’s intro, “Survival,” Drake makes an impression entrance with blistering wordplay and ice-cold bars to display his frustrations from an already gruesome month. “Who’s giving out this much return on investment?” he flaunts with prolific conviction. On “Nonstop” and “Elevate,” however, is where that 40 and Drizzy connection works perfectly with club pounding beats, raw & distinctive flows and clean-cut melodies perfect for those summer night vibes.  “They been trying me, but I’m resilient, for real” Drake raps with authority on “Nonstop.” “I can’t go in public like civilian, for real.”

God's Plan (Official Video) - Directed by Karena Evans, Executive Producers Director X & Taj Critchlow & Produced by Fuliane Petikyan For Popp Rok. © 2018 Young Money Entertainment/Cash Money Records

Drake stunningly admits to having a son on the album’s 4th stint, “Emotionless,” over a refreshingly soulful sample of Mariah Carey’s MTV Unplugged performance of “Emotions.” “I wasn’t hidin’ my kid from the world,” he boasts. “I was hiding the world from my kid.” Drake further acknowledges his son’s existence with a brief semi-response for Pusha T on the audaciously smooth and soulfully addictive, “8 out of 10,” taunting, “Kiss my son on the forehead then kiss your ass goodbye. As luck would have it, I’ve settled into my role as the good guy.”

In addition to the chart-topping and philanthropic visuals of “God’s Plan,” Drake’s DJ Premier collaboration in, “Sandra’s Rose,” is another soul-sampled and mic-personified beauty that’s icing on the cake for an already eye-opening record. Here Drake’s expertise as a lyrical technician blossoms with Premier’s vivid production and classic sound.

Yet, on Scorpion’s side B is were Drake’s singing and soulful influences come into play with a more haunting and moody feel to the 90-minute record. Drake’s harmonious approach to the album’s second half is juicy, sensually smooth and painfully romantic – deeply influenced from his taste in classic soul and vocalists such as Sade and Phyllis Hyman.  

On the sudden slow-jam, “Peak,” Drake brings the tempo down to a hazy candle-lit forum with massaging beats and seductive harmonies. His song’s “Jaded” and “Finesse” are other pulsating tracks that Drake delivers with feelings of late-night cognac, passionate despair and steamy bedroom vibes.

The Toronto emcee also brings out a little puppy love with “Summer Games.” A song about a short-lived summer romance that’s fueled with razor edged synths perfect for dusks at the boardwalk.  Another interesting track on Side B is the posthumous feature of Michael Jackson on, “Don’t Matter To Me,” which has a mid-tempo rhythm and euphoric vibe that’s fits masterfully around Michael’s soulful and feathery vocals.

“Nice For What” (Official Video) - Performance by Drake © 2018 Young Money Entertainment/Cash Money Records

The club centric tracks “Nice For What” and “In My Feelings,” added a contrasting touch to the latter half of the album that revels in New Orleans bounce and tropical vibes. “Nice For What” has already seen a significant chart-topping success as the record’s second single and “In My Feelings” wouldn’t fall far from the tree. With a decadent hook, craving melodies and bars to knock to – “In My Feelings” is side B’s leading track for Scorpion.

Drake ends this odyssean 25-track album with “March 14” that touches upon his fatherhood and experiences of being raised with parents from a failed marriage. The song also dives into his current grappling with his son’s mother, adult film actress Sophie Brussaux, as well as his self-analysis of becoming a better parent.

Throughout all its toxicity, Drake winds back the clock on Scorpion by giving his fans a rubric of what made his career so compelling and universal in the first place: the bad-boy loving punch lines, lyrically precise mind and expressively glowing melodies that reverts back to the aesthetics of his freshman and sophomore albums.

Drake illustrates emotion and raw vulnerability on Scorpion. This time around, as more than its predecessors, Drake's new album relies on a self-examining honest approach that revels in shortcoming tones and bustling fragility. This delicacy of Drake's lyricism and musical style illustrate his own admission of the truth and his definitive role as a young father. It’s one of the many reasons why Scorpion is such an intriguing record in which Drake challenges himself like he's never done before.

Drake

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