Late Pass #13: Beck - Odelay

I'm due a late pass, lol, and why not be 13 years late? I have NEVER heard Beck's Odelay album and probably never would have if I hadn't read the latest Waxpoetics (#35) which features E.Z. Mike Simpson of The Dust Brothers. I, of course have heard Devil's Haircut and Where It's At, but was not impressed upon to purchase the album. It sounds 10x better to me now. Good music is like a fine wine, anyone? Odelay isn't your normal critically acclaimed album, but is probably indicative of the paradigm shift from music THEN to WHAT WE CALL music now. You could almost call this one of the first mash-ups, as it pairs Beck's quirky alt-rock vocals with hip hop/r&b beats. This is a perfect complement to just hangin around the house or maybe a backyard BBQ (ok, now Im hungry!). Come classmates and learn more about Odelay with me...I've given up the Late Pass!


Beck - Jack-Ass

Late Pass #1: Donavon Frankenreiter

The Late Pass is a new series that will be about JUST that. This is for when we discover great music many years past its initial release. Although we stay abreast of a lot music there are still some that fall through the cracks. So with no further delay, let's begin!

I was shopping at the mall yesterday and found myself in Hollister, the surfer boy/girl store. As I was checking out, a song came on and when the beat hit, the white cashier and I started bobbing our heads in unison and I had to ask, "Who is that???!???" He showed me the digital readout, Donavon Frankenreiter, but unfortunately they didnt have any of his albums in stock. BTW, the song we were listening to was the title track from this album, Move By Yourself (2006). I was on a mission! I went to another store and picked up the wrong album, Pass It Around(2008), but was still pleased, because even though the song I wanted wasn't on it, it still sounded good.

Donavon sounds like, and I lie to you not: Jamiroquai, Remy Shand and Robin Thicke wrapped all into one. Donavon has a total of 4 albums and I have 2 of them; Rest assured I will get the others as well.


Donavon Frankenreiter - The Way It Is

Late Pass #15: Cherrywine - 16th Minute/In Here

I was a die-hard Digable Planets fan, so of course I was crushed when the crew disbanded. Late 2001, I saw a white label 12" on Dustygroove.com that had a writeup which read that Butterfly Aka Ish was the frontman of a new crew, Cherrywine. In addition, Nia Long was credited as being a vocalist on the track, In Here. I had to have it! When the vinyl arrived and I freed it from it's plastic prison, my mind wasn't ready (at the time) for 16th Minute, but I immediately fell in love with In Here. It had those spacy effects on the keys with a minimalist vibe and was just a sexy song to vibe out to. In 2003, Cherrywine released Bright Black, which was more on the vibe of 16th Minute, which I enjoyed all the same and didn't include either of the tracks from the 12". Get your late pass and enjoy!


Cherrywine - In Here feat Nia Long

Late Pass #4: Antoinique - Introducing Antoinique

Me and my man, Duane Powell, were discussing this artist who just ripped Chicago and Duane mentioned that that artist might be signing with Malaco Records, yes the blues label.
Antoinique, he mentioned, was signed to Malaco in 2003 when she released this album, Introducing Antoinique. I dont recall how I found out about the album, but it's been in the crates for years. Sweeter was my personal favorite but the whole album is dope, yes, even SIX years later. You can pick it up HERE if you havent heard before. Get a Late Pass, you wont be disappointed.


Antoinique - Sweeter

Late Pass #27 - Aquanote :: The Pearl

On a night with a lot to do but not enough energy to do it, I reach for something soothing that'll keep me mellowed out all while keeping me focused with the right amount of subtle beats and synth. This burst of musical energy comes in the form of Aquanote's The Pearl. A gem released in 2002, The Pearl went on to dazzle the Electronica scene and dance floors of major cities. A complete body of work, it contains 15 tracks ranging from upbeat to laid back tempos, as well as melodious effortless vocals to soundscape filled instrumentals... a house music lover's ethereal dream. Come into my world this late late night and experience the soulful jazz that is Aquanote...

Aquanote - The Last One

Aquanote - When Angels Cried

Late Pass #15: Thicke - A Beautiful World

Last night as I scrolled thru media player for some laid back, late night music, I stumbled upon Thicke. Oh, I'm sorry. Pardon me, I meant Robin Thicke. For purposes of distinction however, in case you get them confused; Robin Thicke emerged in 2005 and is not to be confused w/ Thicke circa 2003.

This Thicke person whom I speak of churned out a solid, 7/7 Head Nod worthy album by the name of Beautiful World, that had the upbeat feel of MJ, the crooner sound of The Beatles, and the unabashed energy of Thicke.

Don't get me wrong, Robin Thicke's music is cool too, but it tends to get lost in the R&B shuffle. Thicke however, released an incomparable body of work that showed him in his true artistic element and I can dig it! To cop this album you can hit any one of the above links. Otherwise, here's a joint for you to chill to....


A Beautiful World

Late Pass #25 - Melo X :: Mustafa's Renaissance

A friend of mine sent me a new remixed JB3 track, and after further digging I discovered twasn't new, but I was late. The Track Hide & Seek (Tehas Beans), was featured on Melo X December '08 mixtape Mustafa's Renaissance which apparently was a big hit. I'm on my way to downloading right now considering the fact that Melo never disappoints and thought I'd share it w/ ya'll. Below is the trailer for the mix...

Download here


Melo-X feat Jesse Boykins III - Hide and Seek (Tehas Beans)

DJ Pump presents Jeepney Sound Vol. 6

I'm gonna have to take a major late pass on this one. Apparently this mix came out in March of 2007 and I only came across it last month but didn't get around to listening to it until last night while working. But when I hit the play I was instantly blown away and I give credit to DJ Pump for getting me through my long night. Jeepney Sound, Vol. 6 is a dope mix of real hip-hop and soul blends and rare grooves that will make you want to declare out loud how hot it is. DJ Pump did this as a dedication to the late great J Dilla and there's even a Dilla tribute in the middle. Those damn Canadians, they're good for something! Download: Jeepney Sounds Vol. 6.

DJ Pump presents Jeepney Sound, Vol. 6

BLOKHEDZ Animation Trailer, Book + More

Set in the mythical, gang-ridden streets of Empire City, BLOKHEDZ is the animated story of teenage rapper, Blak. With the help of his crew, "G-Pak", Blak fights off temptations of the streets and dreams of making it big in the rap game. But when he gets caught in the middle of a crime-lord-turned-media-mogul's plan to control the city, Blak discovers his rhymes have supernatural abilities. Will Blak stay true to himself and use his magical gifts for good? Or will he be lured into using them for evil? The fate of Empire City hangs in the balance.

This discovery may be deserving of a "Late Pass", but I had to share anyways..This comic book turned animated series is pretty slick. The graphics and story are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat, featuring the voices of Talib Kweli, Bobbito Garcia, RZA, Affion Crockett, Mayda Del Valle, Lauren London, and DJ Khalil on the beats. Go to MissionG.com to check out the 3 part animated series and Blokhedz.tv to go to the store (if you haven't already), complete with books, action figures and more. Hey, better late than never right?

Late Pass Like What!!!: Little Dragon

I try to never judge a book or album by its cover. Usually its the cover that compels me to give an album a chance. So when I came across this interesting piece of cover art that looked like a cross between an early colonial era painting mixed with anime I was immediately intrigued. But I get so much music that sometimes it takes me a while to get around to actually listening to all of it and when I finally got around to pressing play on 'Little Dragon' I wanted to slap myself for not checking it out sooner. I mean this came out in 2007!!! Where the hell was I at?!!!

This is good music in it's purest form. Layered with complex production, melodic soulful lyrics, and instant head nodding tunes. I was urged to find out more about this group, and much to my surprise, although it shouldn't have been, I learned that these cats are from frakin' Sweden!!! And their soulful lead singer is Japanese!!! Like Dave Chappelle "I was fu*king shocked! If I didn't have a visual reference I could have sworn my girl Yukimi Nagano was a straight up Soul Sista! But in a way she is, just not that kind, not that there's anything wrong with that because this is good music and good music transcends all boundaries. And I heard from my homie from that other place called Birmingham SoulUK that they are releasing a follow up this year, can't wait for that!!!

I've said before that the acts from across ocean are killing it right now. And its a beautiful thing, there is so much good music in the world and if you keep open mind and ear you'll be pleasantly surprised to find a new talent that you've wished you've caught on to before but like they say, better late than never.

Little Dragon 'No Love'

Little Dragon 'Constant Surprises'

Purchase 'Little Dragon' from Amazon or iTunes

Late Pass #23 - DKD::Future Rage

DKD has been one of my fave electronica groups since I first heard them a while ago. Unknown to many, is the fact that they are Dego from 4hero, Kaidi Tatham, and Daz-I-Kue from Bugz in the Attic. Future Rage , released in 2003; encompassed broken beat, futuristic jazz, and electro sound effects to create soundscapes and loops that transformed your mind state to something out of this world. At one point you could mentally be @ a Rave, at another you would be gazing so hard just zoning off of the vibe *head still bobbing unknowingly though*. If you weren't hip to the album back then, it's never too late...

DKD - Brighter Day

DKD - Future Rage

Outasight 'Radio'

I don't know if this qualifies as a late pass because I've actually been up on this cat for a minute but I am late in showcasing him on the blog. Though I'm sure you connoisseurs of all things dope already know who this dude is, but if you don't then let me introduce you to Outasight. His style and sound is a refreshing addition to the current hip-hop scene and should satisfy listeners that yearn for something different. 'Radio' is one of my favorites because it instantly brings memories of being young and hearing all my favorite tracks being played back when radio was good. Give it a listen and hopefully you'll get that same feeling.

Outasight 'Radio'

Bonus: Mick Boogie & Outasight presents 'From There To Here' The Album Prequel (Right+Click | Save As)

Late Pass #24 - Freestyle Nation::Freeversation

As I partook in my Sunday Soul shuffle, a track from Freestyle Nation 's album Free*ver*sation came on that made me say; "I remember them!". I paused my shuffle for a moment to listen to the entire album and remembered when their album stayed in my car on shuffle/repeat. The feel of the album was very live, creating a jam session vibe. You could feel the soul throughout the album as they discussed intimate and spiritual love. The horns were mad sexy, the guitar & bass gave the tracks attitude, and the percussion complemented each song and in a sense kept it together.

This group is near and dear to BLS b/c some of the members; PJ Morton [lead singer], Alvin "Cornbread" Garrett [on bass], Big Ed [on drums], and Jesse Bond [on guitar] have close ties to Alabama. Cornbread tours, plays with, and directed for Ruben Studdard while he was on tour... they are also from the same group Just A Few Cats based in Alabama.

We recently interviewed PJ Morton HERE, where we talked a little about the group, and his growth in the industry since Freestyle Nation. Notably, he's a Grammy award winning writer and producer. Jesse has also kept himself busy by working, and touring with Anthony Hamilton, and Chrisette Michelle to name a few. This track I'm about to share speaks to the different elements flowing thru the album, one of my faves...

Emotions In Disguise

Late Pass #10: Myron - Free

Most people know Myron from his 1997 Destiny album which included the single of the same name and my favorite, We Can get Down. He reappeared on Hidden Beach's 2003 Hidden Hits Vol.1 with Free which also appears on the 2005 import release Free. I've been rocking this one for 5 years now and it's completely filled with soul filled bangers and funk drenched gems alike. Check out Me For You and pick up Free, you won't be disappointed.


Myron - Me For You

Late Pass #8: Bebel Gilberto - Tanto Tempo

While doing the post for Black Rio 2 I read t hat there would be a version of Bananeira included. I became acquainted with that song after purchasing Tanto Tempo in 2000 after hearing August Day Song on a Raw Soul (who remembers those?) compilation. Although almost a decade old, this is a solid purchase as are all of Bebel's albums. The great thing about this album is although it is very much Brazilian, it has SO MUCH SOUL. In addition, the majority of her albums are remixed by great producers (DJ Spinna, Yam Who, John Beltran) who add great touches to already fantastic songs. Check out Bebel's version of the Brazilian standard, Bananeira.

Bebel Gilberto - Bananeira

The BamaLoveSoul Inbox

Ive received a bunch of goodies this week. There are some, however, that I was unable to get up onto the site for whatever reason but I would still like to share with you. Click here to get the list of the tracks and the download link. In honor of JayTeeDee getting his Little Dragon Late Pass I'll include this Trackademics remix to Little Dragon's After the Rain.


Little Dragon - After the Rain (Trackademics Remix)

Late Pass #17: Keith Murray - Enigma

Jr Star, don't call me out like you did on the Beck post, lol. This is one dope album! I've always dug The Most Beautifulest Vocabulist, but somehow this album just never made it into my "buy list". Well yesterday's forgotten treats yield today's boomin beats, lol. Not only do we see Keith droppin the rhymes he was well known for; the production is handled largely by none other than J Dilla. I'm sure you can imagine how dope this is! Check out this track where he shouts out Alabama (Heyyy!) and know that he and Canibus are currently in the studio recording an album under the name The Under Gods. Laters!


Keith Murray - World Be Free

Late Pass # 28: Boozoo Bajou feat Oh No - Back Up

Released in 2006, Boozoo Bajou's second Juke Joint compilation, a collection of their favorite tunes, contained a track, Back Up, that they created with emcee/producer Oh No. Fortunately, the Signs Remix with Element below reminded me of this as it was one of my favorite cuts. See if you can locate the Juke Joint EP though that contains additional versions of Back Up


Boozoo Bajou feat Oh No - Back Up

Late Pass #2: Chromeo

I first heard of Chromeo when I heard one of their songs, Bonafied Lovin', on America's Best Dance Crew and couldn't stop singing the hook. Wednesday, while eating at Mellow Mushroom, the staff decided to play the entire album, 2007's Fancy Footwork and I was impressed. The album is a retro-futristic, 80's inspired gem that I couldn't believe I heard nothing about. If you dig Midas Hutch, you'll dig Chromeo!


Chromeo - 100%

Late Pass #22: Ledisi - Soulsinger :: The Revivial

Nine years & some change ago, the Indie Soul scene was introduced to a fire cracker of a voice by the name of Ledisi. Living up to her name which means "to bring forth"; she presented us with her 1st studio album Soulsinger: The Revival, that did just that... it brought us "undergrounders" forth in droves.

Wrapped up in this 17 track album were powerful vocals that commanded your mood to just chill. Not a serene kinda chill though, more of a grown & sexy kinda "let's drink a glass of Cabernet and unwind" kinda chill. She applied a perfect balance of soul and jazz with her own spin to it. The jazz instrumentation accompanied by her [now signature] scatting made it a very entertaining body of work.

As the time draws near for the release of her 4th studio album; Turn Me Loose, [dropping 18th of August] I thought I'd remind ya'll of where she's coming from, because she evidently comes with something greater each time! Here's a lil sum'n sum'n from the B side of Soulsinger, the side I killed over and over and over...

I Want'cha Babe