[Compilation] ORGANIZED KONFUSION - "God Send"

Organized Konfusion's imprint on the hip-hop scene was hardly left by accident. The Queens duo, which consisted of Prince Poetry and Pharoahe Monch, were not only two of the most lyrically brilliant cats around; they also had a knack for creating absolutely mindblowing beats that held their own against additional contributions by people like Buckwild and The Large Professor. After only three albums, all still held in the higest regards amongst true hip-hop heads today, Po and Monch went their separate ways to focus on their own succesful solo deals. "Organized Konfusion" (1991), "Stress: The Extinction Agenda" (1994) and "The Equinox" (1997) has hopefully already found their way into your record collection, and if not maybe the compilation presented below will point you in the right direction.

"God Send" features fourteen tracks from the duo's 1990s run, and is to my knowledge an almost complete collection of all original Po and Monch joints not included on the three aforementioned LP:s. I've deliberatly excluded the 1989 demo they recorded with Paul C as Simply II Positive MC's; that's a post for another day, together with their 1987 single "Memories of Love". Furthermore, I decided against the inclusion of OC's "War Games", considering how it only feature O.K. on the hooks. The same goes for "For My Peeps" which, although credited to both, only features Prince Po. There's also a gang of ill records produced by Organized Konfusion, which you'll also see pop up on The Lost Tapes very soon, so stay tuned. Below are a quick rundown of where the songs originally appeared on, along with a few notes. As usual all songs appear in their full versions, and in good to great quality. TURN IT UP!!

01. "Bring It On" [The Lost Remix]

"Bring It On" is a stand out from the "Stress" LP, but the "Lost Remix" has very little to do with the original incarnation. In fact, it is more of a sequel than an actual remix; featuring all new vocals over an incredible Buckwild production. Released as a white label around '96, and also appeared on the soundtrack for the '96 flick "The Substitute".

02. "Rekonstruction" [Rhyme & Reason Mix]

The "Rhyme & Reason" mix of DJ Spooky's "Rekonstruction" is one I've rarely, if ever, seen mentioned when discussing the works of Organized Konfusion. The original version appeared on Spooky's "Riddim Warfare" in 1998, while this mix made it's entry on a vinyl EP called "Spiritual Minded" that was released a year later. This take is darker and more agressive than the original, and I would say both are equally impressive.

03. "Murder By Syntax"

Created for the DJ/producer centered compilation  "Deeper Concentration" on OM Records in '98, "Murder by Syntax" is credited to DJ Spooky featuring Organized Konfusion. Similiar to the previous track, this one is pretty hardcore and makes you wish DJ Spooky would get more attention on hip-hop albums.

04. "Ill Collabo" (w. Cella Dwellas)

Lifted from The Dwellas' classic sophomore release, "The Last Shall Be First", the cameo was credited to Prince Po and Pharoahe Monch since this was recorded after the group's official split. Fans of exceptional lyricism will find this most satisfying, and Rockwilder turns in one of his most boom-bapish beats, post-"Da Rockwilder". Released in 2000 on Stimulated Records.

05. "Sway & Tech Radio Promo: Interlude" (w. Nas)

This fat radio promo appeared on the 2005 release, "Best of Organized Konfusion" and is, obviously, a promo record for Sway & Tech's The Wake Up Show. The fact is that these 1.5 minutes are just an excerpt of a complete "Wake Up Show Anthem", recorded and rleased in 1994. I decided to include the short version on the compilation, due to the fact that the sound quality is a lot better with both O.K. verses intact. The original version features a crazy line-up of Lauryn Hill, Nas, Prince Po, Pharoahe Monch, Saafir, Ras Kass, Chino XL, Shyheim and Foxy Brown... Check it out for yourself - "Wake Up Show Anthem '94".

06. "Frontline" (w. El Da Sensei, Mike Zoot & F.T.)

"Frontline" falls in the posse cut category, the line-up of El Da Sensei, Organized Konfusion, Mike Zoot and F.T. blesses a dope Shawn J. Period production that will surely have your head nodding. Recorded for the Groove Attack compilation, "Superrappin' - The Album" and released in 1999.

07. "You Won't Go Far" (w. OC)

One of the closest affiliates of the duo this post focuses on, was right from the jump Omar Credle (OC that is). O made his recording debut on the opening song of "Organized Konfusion", the masterpiece "Fudge Pudge", and also made an apperance on "Stress". Po and Monch produced no less than four cuts from OC's classic debut LP, "Word...Life" and there was even talk of a collaborative project between the three at one point. "You Won't Go Far" is a great showcase of how great that would've been, as there is no denying the tight chemistry this trio displays here; and it's a concept record on top of that! Released in 1995 on the "New Jersey Drive" soundtrack (Vol. 2).

08. "Stress Remix" (w. Large Professor)

Similiar to the "Bring it On" remix, the Extra-P take on "Stress" is more of a sequel than a remix as it's really only the hook that string them together. Large Pro leaves the dark, rumbling basslines that characterized the album version, in favor of a lighter sound centered around the Fender Rhodes piano. Released as a single in 1994, it's possible that it was also intended to appear on the album as the credits reads "Ocee and Large Professor appears courtesy of Wild Pitch Records"; despite no other apperance from The Guy With The Glasses.

09. "Late Night Action"

This rather moody piece is supposedly a song recorded for "The Equinox" album. Instead it appeared on the "Soul in the Hole" soundtrack the same year. The sound is also very similiar in style to that of the last O.K. album, and is not too suprisingly produced by the duo as well.

10. "Passion"

This terrific cut packs a very dark and atmospheric sound, complete with a great horn sample floating in and out of the soundscape underneath the verses. "Passion" appeared on "The Best of..." compilation from 2005, with no further explanation of the songs origins. Judging by the sound of it, I would place it around the time of "Stress", possibly a little later. Most likely self-produced.

11. "Tender" [Remix] (w. Attica Blues)

Attica Blues is a trip-hop trio from the UK that released their self-titled debut album on the Mo' Wax label in '97. From there, the single "Tender" was released, complete with a remix produced by Organized Konfusion. Although it does not mention on the label, the remix also features one verse each by the duo, holding down microphone duties for the first two minutes of the seven minutes joint. This might seem like a pretty odd collaboration, and it definitely is, but it's pretty damn great either way.

12. "Decisions"

Superb concept track from the "America is Dying Slowly" project (1996), a compilation of exclusive hip-hop tracks meant to raise awareness about AIDS. Produced by the always ill DJ Ogee, who's very talented but unfortunately has a way too small catalouge for his skills. Hopefully we'll get to hear more from him sooner or later.

13. "O.K. Moodswing: Interlude"

Self-produced funky interlude type of track from from the "Who Stole My Last Piece of Chicken" single (1991). Featuring Adam "Ant" Anton on guitar and Chris Conway on drums.

14. "Rekonstruction"

The original version of DJ Spooky's earliest Organized Konfusion collaboration, "Rekonstruction", lifted from his "Riddim Warfare" project (1998). I'm a big fan of this as well as the remix, which is why I decided to include them both here. I'm sure you don't mind!

15. "God Send"

How could I make an Organized Konfusion compilation, and not include the final piece of the puzzle? "God Send" fits perfectly as the outro to this one hour set as I always felt that it managed to bring some type of closure to the impeccable musical legacy of these two giants. Recorded for Pharoahe Monch's solo debut, "Internal Affairs" on Rawkus in 1999; produced by Lee Stone and Pharoahe Monch.

ORGANIZED KONFUSION - "GOD SEND" 

Pace Won & Mr. Green - "My God"

Pacewon of Tha Outsidaz and producer Mr. Green is set to release their "The Only Number that Matters is Won" on September 4. The LP will serve as a follow up their original 2008 collaboration, "The Only Color that Matters is Green". The single "My God", sees Pacewon reminiscing on much of the classic hip-hop music that affected and inspired him throughout his life, over a fittingly laid back Mr. Green instrumental. The song was premiered live @ Fat Beats as far back as 2010.

[Video] DJ J-Ronin & Lil' Fame - "Misery"

DJ J-Ronin and DJ Snips' banging "All Elements V. 12" mixtape is hosted by M.O.P., so it's not suprising that the Lil' Fame assisted "Misery" is the first choice for a video. Head over to http://allelements.ning.com/ to pick up a copy of the CD.

[VIDEO] Rome Clientel - "My Life's Like a Movie"

Rome Clientel keeps it moving with another video from his recently released "The Lost Catacombs" EP. "My Life's Like A Movie" is produced by Mr. Scott with additional vocals contributed by Alycat.

Blockhead & Illogic - "Caffeine Budget"

Rather incredible shit by Illogic and madly underrated producer Blockhead, called "Caffeine Budget". The duo is set to deliver the collaborative EP, "Preparing For Capture", on June 5 and if the sounds of the first single is anything to go by, we should all be paying attention!

[VIDEO] Reks - "Autographs"

Another sure shot from Reks' Statik Selektah laced fourth LP, "Straight No Chaser". This time it's the album opener, "Autographs", that gets embraced with a video, directed by Felipe Jorge. Available now @ iTunes, UGHH or your store of choice.

IMAKEMADBEATS & MidaZ The Beast - "Figaro Chain Mystery"

Producer IMAKEMADBEATS recently released the very cool concept album, "Daylight / Nightlight" via Doxside Music Group. Some of y'all might remember that this was originally conceivied as two separate EP records, one featuring Butta Verses and the other with Midaz the Beast handling microphone duties. Besides the original fourteen tracks, the new repackaged album version also features a couple of fresh bonus cuts, including the dark "Figaro Chain Mystery". Grab your copy and read more about "Daylight / Nightlight" @ Doxside.

[Video] NAS - "Daughters"

Brand new video for Nas' latest single, the No I.D. produced "Daughters". All three singles from the upcoming album are still getting steady spins, I got high hopes for "Life is Good" which is scheduled for a June 17 release.

BILLY DANZE Presents Raps United Nation

At the beginning of this year, hip-hop legend Billy Danze launched his latest project - "R.U.N. - Raps United Nations". Rather than your typical solo album, Danze has created a platform for talented emcees, producers and DJs from around the world, giving them a chance to be heard. "These artists need to be heard and have a united voice. I am very passionate about giving them that opportunity and will do anything in my power to help those that really want to win," said the M.O.P. rapper in an interview with HipHopDX back in January.

About a month following the abvovementioned interview, the UN of rap music released "First Wave", a 30 track mixtape with a long list of debuting artists and a few more familiar names; hosted by Billy Danze and DJ J-Ronin. Now, the follow-up tape "Second Wave" has been released to the public, featuring plenty of hot beats and rhymes, spread out over the 30 songs. The sequel is once again hosted by Danze, this time alongside DJ U-Neek. Peep the tracklist/stream here or grab it right away.

[Album] M-Dot - "Dots On The Map"

Boston rapper M-Dot has made his mark on the underground scene the last couple of years, with several mixtapes and tours in both USA and Europe. Before heading out on the road again, he has unveiled his latest project, "Dots On The Map", for free download and it's strongly recommended. Featured on the tape are lots of different artists, such as Masta Ace, Big Shug, Nutso and Punchline representing the US, and Prop Dylan, DJ Connect, Rocc Spotz and others holing it down for the EU. The mixtape also works as a prequel to M-Dot's upcoming full-length LP, "Layer Cake" (where the vid above is lifted from), which drops on May 29. Download via 1200.

M-DOT - "DOTS ON THE MAP" LP

The Making of Nas' "It Was Written"

One of the best examples of an album that has been reevaluated over time, Nas' sophomore LP "It Was Written" saw the Queensbridge emcee reach for the charts while maintaining integrity. Lyrically, it's as strong as "Illmatic" although the topics were much different and The Trackmasters, Havoc, L.E.S., Dr. Dre and DJ Premier constructed a rather dark, and often moody, soundbed for Escobar's words to flourish on. Because of its tangible differences from his much praised debut, the '96 follow-up led to the first accusations of Nas' as a sell-out. Today, "It Was Written" is more often considered a true hip-hop classic, and a good representation of the time and place hip-hop was at during the time the LP was conceived. Something I personally agree with.

Complex Magazine follows their recent Nas interview/article with a trip down memory lane, with Nas, Trackmasters, DJ Premier, Prodigy and Steve Stoute discussing the making of "It Was Written". A very interesting read, no doubt; much props to Complex for their incredible in-depth articles!

"The Making of 'It Was Written'" @ Complex

[EP/Comp] MC EIHT - "Which Way iz West"

 MC Eiht's album "Which Way iz West" has been in the works for a long time by now, and was originally set to be released in 2010. Yet, there's still not even a release date for the LP, which on paper and based on the singles released so far should be nothing short of incredible. For the project, Eiht has hooked up with long-time friend and super producer, DJ Premier, and his Year Round Records imprint. Eiht and Preem together guarantees a hot ass album, but we all know that there's been a lot of unfortunate problems with the label; resulting in both Blaq Poet and Nick Javas leaving to pursue other deals, while NYGz "Hustler's Union" remains without even a release date after four years of push backs. I really hope "Which Way Iz West" will not end up a shelved classic, and that we will be able to pick it up at least within a reasonable time frame.

What do we know about Eiht's upcoming album? As mentioned above, DJ Premier will act as its executive producer, but not as main producer. It has been revealed that he has three beats on the album, with additional scratches on a few other joints. The bulk of the project was recorded at the legendary HeadCQuarterz studios (formerly D&D). So far, four singles has been released, and they have all been straight up supreme; real hip-hop shit, with a lot of soulful samples, tight rhythm tracks, ill turntable work and Eiht in absolutely excellent form. "I think [Which Way Is West] is going to be well-accepted, and it's going to go down as one of my best records," the emcee said in an interview with HipHopDX back in 2010.

An interesting point is that the four tracks we've heard so far, has all been laced by Austrian producer Brenk Sinatra which points to the likeliness that he's the main producer of "Which Way Iz West". Some people might feel cheated of Preem's limited involvement, but personally I feel that the chemistry that's so evident between Brenk and Eiht on these cuts is just as exciting. I've compiled all the released cuts into a little sampler for y'all to nod your head to this beautiful morning. Three of the songs were released as internet singles, while the track "Fine By Me" first appeared on the YRR promo album - "Get Used 2 Us". I also added the "From QB to California" remix of Blaq Poet's "Aint Nuttin Changed", featuring Eiht and Young Maylay, as it is also representative of his work on Year Round. 'Nuff talk - TURN IT UP!!

01. "All Hood"

02. "I Need That"

03. "Fine By Me"

04. "Where U Goin' 2"

05. "Aint Nuttin Changed Remix" (w. Blaq Poet & Young Maylay)

MC EIHT - "WHICH WAY IZ WEST" [SAMPLER] 

LikNuts - "Grumpy Crocodile"

Roughly a year ago, the collaboration between Tha Alkaholiks and The Beatnuts as LikNuts was first announced. Now, we gets to hear the first single from the upcoming project, "Grumpy Crocodile". Pretty raunchy joint that does a fine job combining the styles of both groups... Bring out the bottles!!

DJ Nu-Mark x J-Live - "Tonight"

Slamming new track by Jurassic 5's DJ Nu-Mark, featuring J-Live, M3 and Erica Dee. "Tonight" is a great cut that's on a real nice summer vibe tip, which is a perfect soundtrack to this Thursday. The combination of that sweet guitar riff, J-Live's fantastic mic skills, sweet vocals and the classic "kick, snare, snare, hi-hat" formula is bound to have a lot of heads nodding. This is also the second installment in Nu-Mark's "Broken Sunlight" series, following the equally impressive Bumpy Knuckles assisted "Dumpin' 'Em All", and is available on 10" vinyl single and in digital format via the link below.

DJ NU-MARK - "BROKEN SUNLIGHT SERIES #2"

Rosco P. Coldchain to Debut

Rosco P. Coldchain is a street-centered rapper who's been lurking in the shadows of the industry for a lot longer than most would guess. He originally got his break as an affiliate of The Clipse, and was signed to The Neptunes' Star Trak Entertainment imprint, where he recorded the full-length album "Hazardous Life". The LP boosted production giants like DJ Premier and Neptunes but remains unreleased, and it seems it will stay that way. 2012, however, will see a debut release from the emcee, despite his current incarceration. The nine tracks collected on the release, titled "Almost Famous", are all produced by Fatin "10" Horton and were originally recorded between 2003 and 2007. Fatin, who produced suberb cuts for Pharoahe Monch, Skyzoo, Phonte and Torae, assures that they were "ahead of its time". 

While we're waiting for the June 12 release, I want to bring back the two joints that introduced me to Rosco. I believe both of these songs were recorded for "Hazardous Life" sometime in the mid-2000s. Both tracks, which are produced by DJ Premier, are on some vintage hardcore boom bap shit, and has me fiending for the official debut album next month. Enjoy!

ROSCO P. COLDCHAIN - "I'MA KILL THIS NIGGA"

ROSCO P. COLDCHAIN - "WHUT'Z IT ALL ABOUT"