Author Archives: DIOLA

ELITE FUNK AND SOUL BAND : KASHMERE STAGE BAND (US) TO TOUR AUSTRALIA 2013

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Sydney Festival and Funkdafied audiences will witness for the first time ever, the compelling and rare musical ingenuity from members of the legendary and award-winning Kashmere Stage Band – the all funk big band survivors of the late 1960’s United States Big Band competition. Eleven original members of the thirty-something Kashmere Stage Band will take to the stage  as part of Sydney Festival 2013, alongside shows in Brisbane and Melbourne.

At a time when citizens took to the streets in unison with clenched fists held high as a powerful symbol of unification and resistance, racial segregation and political uncertainty compounded civil unrest, consequently reducing America to its knees.

One band stood to overcome the violence that permeated an entire nation, uniting a community together, breaking the profound racial tension through the power of Funk music! 

In 1967, Texan music teacher Conrad O. Johnson formed a band with his all African American high school students at Kashmere High School called the Kashmere Stage Band. Competing in the fiercely competitive, conservative and almost entirely white national High School Stage Band Competitions, the Kashmere Stage Band exceled beyond expectations.

546470_214147282054376_1634532538_nThe Kashmere Stage Band

Johnson and his big band broke down racial barriers and challenged the status quo with their elaborate funk arrangements. He also changed the band’s look, encouraging them to embrace their own inimitable style by introducing an unprecedented element of showmanship; with each section choreographing slick moves with their instruments.

Amassing multiple awards around the nation, they went on to perform in Europe and Japan upon invitation. Reigning as the untouchable champions of the Big Band prestigious competition for years, Johnson not only changed the lives of hundreds of students, he instilled racial pride, faith and inner strength at a time when such values seemed a distant fable. Ultimately, his teaching methods went on to impact an entire education system, valuing and placing importance on the arts. His rigorous and heart-felt teaching methods were later espoused by the US education system, and to this day, continues to make an impact upon the lives of many students.

The band’s recordings have been collected by crate-diggers, feted (and sampled) by luminaries like DJ Shadow, and reissued by respected record label Stones Throw Records. All members of Kashmere Stage Band are aged in their 50’s, proving that music can not only serve as a powerful tool for education and change, but transcends age, race and gender.

What happens next proves to be historic!

For Sydney siders, Sydney Festival’s Paradiso at Town Hall and Sutherland Entertainment Centre, Kashmere Stage Band live performance is preceded by a screening of the fascinating documentary about them entitled Thunder Soul, narrated by Jamie Foxx. This is inspiring documentary details the history of the band and them coming together again for a special performance 30 years later. It is a truly inspirational documentary that details the legacy of both the Kashmere Stage Band and their legendary teacher Conrad ‘Prof’ Johnson.

NATIONAL TOUR DATES
January 18-27 (18+ only)

SYDNEY

Thu-Sun late night line-up til 2am

Where         Paradiso at Town Hall

When          January 20 Thunder Soul documentary screening at 7pm, Kashmere Stage Band at 9pm(free entry to Paradiso Terrace Bar from 5.30pm)

Tickets        $46 (standing tickets only, cushions provided for film screening)

Bookings    Ticketmaster 1300 723 038

                       Sydney Festival 1300 668 812

 

Where         Sutherland Entertainment Centre 30 Eton Street, Sutherland

When          January 18TH, 2013 at 8pm (Performance and Screening)

Bookings    Sydney Festival 1300 668 812

                     Sutherland Entertainment Centre 02 9521 8888

Where         Parramatta Festival Opening Night (Performance Only)

When          January 19TH, 2013

                     www.sydneyfestival.org

BRISBANE

Where         Brisbane Powerhouse (Performance and Screening)

When          JANUARY 25TH, 2013

                     www.brisbanepowerhouse.org

 

MELBOURNE

Where         Garden Party – SouthBank (Performance Only)

When          January 27th, 2013

                    www.melbournerecital.com.au

kashmere poster 2013

www.sydneyfestival.org.au/kashmere

http://www.funkdafied.com.au

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HIP HOP: Apollo Brown (DETROIT), David Dallas (NZ), P-Money (NZ), Suff Daddy (GER), Chasm(AUS), and more….

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The time has come for the world of Hip Hop to unite under one roof. No, this isn’t a special United Nations charitable benefit, but more a United Nations of Benetton Hip Hop show in Sydney! Sydney label Grindin’ has once again stepped up to the plate providing Sydney with QUALITY Hip Hop acts. If you’re not familiar with Detroit’s APOLLO BROWN, keep busy and check the links out. All artists on the bill have a heavy jazz and soul influence so expect a unique sound heard on the night. The sound of boom-bap is heading to Sydney on the 30th of November @ The Civic Hotel!

APOLLO BROWN (DETROIT/MELLO MUSIC GROUP)

Apollo Brown is not your typical soul funk influenced producer. Growing up listening to soft rock music from the 60′s and 70′s such as Seals and Croft, Journey and The Carpenters, Apollo Brown has kept his influences broad and independently his own, not what his peers were commonly influenced by.  Apollo is best known as the go to producer in the Motor City Hip Hop circuit and has collaborated with artists such as Danny Brown, Oddisee, Diamond District, Rapper Big Pooh of Little Brother, Black Milk, MED, Grap Luva, Kenn Starr, Finale, Magestik Legend, Paradime, and many more.
Having signed to Mello Music Group his album projects include “The Reset”, a series of reworked tracks in true remix tradition, “The Brown Study” as half of a collective with Boog Brown, and the “Gas Mask” LP as one-third of The Left with DJ Soko and Emcee Journalist 103. An LP which garnered respect from Hip Hop legends such as DJ Premier, who named it in his top albums of 2010 list.
In 2011, Apollo started a highly anticipated year off with the instrumental album “Clouds”, that was a being named to several relevant top 10 lists for the year and another collabo album called “Daily Bread” with New York emcee Hassaan Mackey.
2012 has been a massive year for Apollo releasing his most recognized work so far, the collabo LP “Trophies” with DITC founder/head member, the legendary O.C. and “Dice Game” with Detroit’s own Hip Hop heavyweight and J.Dilla protege Guilty Simpson.
Apollo’s credo is simple: “Everything I make, I try to make it my favourite album of all time.” He is building on the foundation laid down by Nas’s “Illmatic” and Black Moon’s “Enta Da Stage” in hopes of taking it one step further, and most important, is past the trepidation felt in the past. Radio is good, but Apollo’s music is for the children of the underground.
BRIDGE THROUGH TIME
ALUBM: CLOUDS (2011)
HUNGRY featuring Big Pooh, Blackmilk
ALBUM: RESET (2010)
WE THE PEOPLE
ALBUM: TROPHIES (2012)

DAVID DALLAS (NZ/DUCK DOWN)

Fresh off a 40 plus date tour of America David Dallas will be performing an exclusive set including tracks from his new release “Buffalo Man” EP which has all the songs inspired by, sampled or interpolated from Jamoroquai.
BIG TIME
ALBUM: SOMETHING AWESOME (2010)

P-MONEY (NZ’s #1 (PRODUCER/DJ)

P-Money is New Zealand’s most renowned Producer/DJ. His incredible talents in the studio and behind the decks have made him not only a household name in NZ but an artist to watch internationally.
SUFF DADDY (GERMANY/MPM)
With his drunken boom-bap madness with a 2010 state of mind. Dope beats, sick samples and twisted mini-korg licks, fueled with weed and Pilsetten. This is not your average Prenzelberg producer. Germany’s Suff Deezy is on his own shit.
5 O’CLOCK
THE GIN DIARIES
LOVIN’ YOU/SUFF DISCO/TAKE ‘EM TO THE KIOSK
ALBUM: SUFF SELLS
CHASM FEAT. SPECIAL GUESTS
Chasm is one of the leading Hip Hop producers in Australia, signed to Obese Records. His new album “This Is How We Never Die” features a host of Australian and international artists such as Guilty Simpson, AG, Fashawn, Blak Twang, Solo, Hau,Brad Strut, Delta and many more
METAMORPHED TONGUES
CHASM EP

Supported by DJ’s Frenzie & Ology

Friday 30th November
Civic Underground, 388 Pitt St
Doors open 9pm until late
$25 tickets through Moshtix or $35 on the door
Apollo Brown & Guilty Simpson “Dice Game” album stream - http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/album/dice-game
Apollo Brown Bandcamp - http://apollobrown.bandcamp.com
Apollo Brown & Guilty Simpson “Reputation” free download - http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/track/reputation
Apollo Brown & Guilty Simpson “Truth Be Told” free download - http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/track/truth-be-told
David Dallas “Buffalo Man” EP free download - http://www.daviddallas.co.nz/buffaloman.html
David Dallas “Ever Get The Feeling” video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cGinuqjV4I
Suff Daddy “GNAC” video clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdMaZ-52KiA
Suff Daddy “Pattern Select/Giscar Sob” video clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtHo3z9w8k8
Chasm “Soldier & A Thinker” video clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBTvKuFKkiM
Chasm “Highs & Lows” video clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7GFfYLDo6w

FUNKDAFIED AND SYDNEY FESTIVAL 2013 PRESENTS: THE KASHMERE STAGE BAND IN AUSTRALIA FOR THE FIRST TIME!!

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FUNKDAFIED AND SYDNEY FESTIVAL 2013: THE KASMERE STAGE BAND (USA)!

January 20th 2013 – Paradiso at Town Hall with documentary screening “Thunder Soul”

January 18th 2013 – Sutherland Entertainment Centre

“It’s an inspiring story about one man changing the lives of hundreds of people, at a time when they were at their most vulnerable, putting them on a path of creative expression…through arts education” – Director Mark Landsman

Sydney Festival and Funkdafied audiences will witness for the first time ever, the compelling and rare musical ingenuity from members of the legendary and award-winning THE KASHMERE STAGE BAND – the all funk big band survivors of the 1960’s United States band competition. Ten original members of the thirty elite high school stage band will be heading down under to perform for the 2013 Sydney Festival.

The KSB began their humble beginnings in the late 1960′s till 1974, at a time when citizens took to the streets in unison with clenched fists held high as a powerful symbol of unification and resistance, racial segregation and political uncertainty compounded civil unrest, consequently reducing America to its knees.

One band stood to overcome the violence that permeated an entire nation, uniting a country together to break the profound racial tension through Funk music! That’s right, FUNK MUSIC!

In 1967, Texan music teacher Professor Conrad O. Johnson, known as “The Prof” formed a band with his all African American high school students at Kashmere High School called the Kashmere Stage Band. Competing in the fiercely competitive, conservative and almost entirely white national High School Stage Band Competitions, the Kashmere Stage Band exceled beyond expectations.

Johnson and his big band broke down racial barriers and challenged the status quo with their elaborate funk arrangements. He also changed the bands look, encouraging them to embrace their own inimitable style by introducing an unprecedented element of showmanship; with each section choreographing slick moves with their instruments.

Amassing multiple awards around the nation, they went on to perform in Europe and Japan upon invitation. Reigning as the untouchable champions of this prestigious competition for years, Johnson not only changed the lives of hundreds of students, he instilled racial pride, faith and inner strength at a time when such values seemed a distant fable. Ultimately, his teaching methods and arts program went on to impact an entire education system to value the importance of arts education, now espoused by the current US education curriculum.

The band’s recordings have been collected by crate-diggers, feted (and sampled) by luminaries like DJ Shadow, and reissued by the respected label Stones Throw. All members of The Kashmere Stage Band are now aged in their 50’s, proving that music can not only serve as a powerful tool for education and change, but transcends age, race and gender.

A documentary called ‘THUNDER SOUL” released in 2011 was filmed narrated by Jamie Foxx, documenting the history of The Kashmere Stage Band from their humble beginnings in the late 1960′s, and documenting their deeply moving reunion in 2008 – before the death of their beloved Professor Conrad – a journey that will prove to be historic!

Check out the Thunder Soul trailer here:

At Sydney Festival’s Paradiso at Town Hall, The Kashmere Stage Band live performance is preceded by a screening of the fascinating documentary.

FUNKDAFIED

Funkdafied is an Event Promotions Company based in Sydney Australia, promoting regular quality events encompassing many genres from Afrobeat, Latin, Disco, Reggae and Hip Hop. At the heart of our passion is our strong focus on Jazz, Rare Groove, Soul & Funk. Created in 2006 by Sydney’s respected DJ and radio presenter John Cawley, Funkdafied was established dedicated to the development of Soul, Funk, and Jazz music in live venues across Sydney with a high calibre of local and international DJ’s and musicians under our artist and touring repertoire.

Bar snacks available.

*except Sunday 20 January for Kashmere Stage Band, 7pm doors

Paradiso Bar (on the terrace)
The Sydney Town Hall terrace becomes Paradiso Bar, the perfect place to meet friends for an after-work or pre-show drink. Free entry from 5.30pm (subject to capacity). Light hot meals available.

DETAILS

Where         Paradiso at Town Hall 483 George Street, Sydney (entry via Druitt Street)

When          January 20 Thunder Soul documentary screening at 7pm, Kashmere Stage Band at 9pm(free entry to Paradiso Terrace Bar from 5.30pm)

Tickets        $46 (standing tickets only, cushions provided for film screening)

Bookings     Ticketmaster 1300 723 038

                       Sydney Festival 1300 668 812

Check out http://www.funkdafied.com.au for more information! 

Where         Sutherland Entertainment Centre 30 Eton Street, Sutherland

When          January 18 at 8pm

Bookings   Sydney Festival 1300 668 812

                     Sutherland Entertainment Centre 02 9521 8888

HANDSOME BOY MODELLING SCHOOL sampled The Kashmere Stage Band for this track “Holy Calamity” produced by DJ Shadow:

* DJ Shadow proved to be instrumental in re-releasing their catalogue to a wider audience.

SYDNEY HIP HOP: Young, Gifted & Broke showcase @ The Civic Underground this Thursday night!!

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When one thinks of the phrase ‘Young, Gifted and Broke’, it is a phrase that resonates within every artisan community around the world. Most precariously daring creative ideas are negotiated in spaces of rebellion, angst, and the desire to be expressive and free.

The young are gifted, and constantly broke.

In the world of New Zealand Hip Hop, the ‘Young, Gifted and Broke’ may no longer be a testament to artistic poverty. Look, who am I kidding, they probably are still broke, but they are living their dreams. Who can critique that? Y,G&B is a boutique music label whom have espoused the ethical value of ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, in addition, their mission statement is to champion underground artists.

Progressive, if you ask me, and a value that will eventually propel them and their country onto the international market. But, who are the artists on their roster? They are a collective of young musicians that have never been heard of before with the exception of @Peace, Funkommunity and Home Brew. The rest, well… does it really matter if you know them or not? New Zealand musicians always produce quality music.

The collective will be showcasing some of their talented artists under their roster at the CIVIC UNDERGROUND THIS THURSDAY NIGHT!

Having just been nominated for 6 NZ Music Hip Hop Awards Home Brew return to Australia to showcase tracks from their critically acclaimed double album (the first Hip Hop album to debut at #1 in New Zealand since 2003). Conceptualized by the balance of life’s extremities, one side is light, the other, dark. It’s a dichotomy of methadone and melancholy. Infinity and finality. It’s a record that looks back at Saturday’s moment of madness through Sunday’s moment of clarity, and something you definitely won’t want to miss live.

Featuring Tom Scott (Home Brew) & Lui Tuiasau on vocals, @PEACE won over the bloggers with their debut album which featured a musical soundscape laid down by Christoph El Truento (Wonderful Noise), Hayden ‘Dandruff’ Dicky & Brandon Haru. Along with them performing on the night, the collector’s edition of the album will be available for the first time at the shows.

With 100% production from Home Brew’s Haz Beats, TEAM DYNAMITE set themselves apart with their debut album The Demo Tape, seeing Lucky Lance & Tony Teez passing verses back & forth like Walter Little & Frank Bunce. Fresh off a national tour in New Zealand and with a new EP Faith Music ready to drop, TEAM DYNAMITE are quickly gaining a reputation for their high energy live show.

The showcase will also feature performances from YG&B label manager DJ Substance, with local supports to be announced!

In a time when music sales are thriving and every kid has a walkman it makes perfect sense that Young, Gifted and Broke are releasing a cassette tape.

Featuring work from Home Brew, @Peace, Christoph El Truento, Haz Beats, Side Steps Quintet and countless other people you’ve never heard of, owning this tape will make you the baby Jesus of hipsters. What’s cooler than music you can’t physically listen to? The tape has already sold double platinum in Auckland (24 copies) and this week will be released in Australia. Mate. This is the best thing since Jimmy Barnes.

* NEWS UPDATE *

Grindin’ and Young, Gifted and Broke have announced the first 100 through the doors will receive a Y,G&B special mixtape reserved for the first 100 patrons through the door this Thursday.

This is going to be one huge event that you shouldn’t miss!!

WHO:

YOUNG GIFTED & BROKE PRESENTS…

Home Brew
@Peace
Team Dynamite
Suff Daddy (MPM)
True Vibenation (Big Village)
DJ Substance
DJ KAS3
Hosted by Shantan Wantan Ichiban (Stolen Records)WHERE:

Thursday 25th October

Civic Underground 388 Pitt St, Sydney

FACEBOOK INVITE: http://www.facebook.com/events/115906841895700/?fref=ts

BUY TICKETS HERE: http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=60743&skin

Tix are $15.00 through moshtix or $25.00 at the door!

www.grindin.net

www.younggiftedandbroke.com

NEO SOUL GODFATHER: There’s nothing quite like OMAR!

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“It’s not so much chart positions, or paying the bills or anything… it’s about being able to have something that is creative, something that’s a part of your expression..” OMAR (Interview)


Some of you danced the night away to his sound, whilst some of you made love with his music in the background. Some of you would have dissected his musicianship apart because you wanted to be like him, sound like him, or channel him. Whatever the case may be, there were millions of fans expressing the same sentiment you did back when you first heard his unmistakable sound, not to mention his seductively captivating harmonies and funky grooves! If you were born before 1990, you would know the sound of multi-award winning musician OMAR LYE FOOK or OMAR as he is widely known. Labeled the Godfather of the revivalist soul genre NEO SOUL, developed in the early 1990’s alongside artists such as Erykah Badu, Maxwell, Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, and The Brand New Heavies; Omar crossed over international waters with his distinctive fusion sound, shaping the ground breaking Neo Soul movement around the world.

For the first time ever, Funkdafied and Red Karpet Music presents OMAR hitting Oxford Arts Factory on the 10th of November, 2012 for a unique performance with a LIVE BAND!

His first single ‘There’s Nothing Like This’ released through KONGO Records in 1990 was the very first track that instantaneously propelled Omar global recognition, not just with fans of his music, but cemented his musicianship amongst his critically acclaimed peers as an outstanding multi-instrumentalist. Most notably, legendary Stevie Wonder, upon hearing ‘There’s Nothing Like This’ publicly promised to make a no.1 hit for Omar which would only come to fruition 14 years later. After countless jam sessions, Omar and Stevie Wonder produced the track “Feeling You” released on TRU THOUGHTS label in 2006.

Omar’s discography articulates a man of quality control with a career spanning over 22 years, 6 albums, 14 singles and collaborative joints mostly accomplished with friends or those who were a fan of his music. His collaboration work ranges from Angie Stone, Erykah Badu, Stevie Wonder, Common, Caron Wheeler, Leon Ware, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Estelle and Syreeta Wright.

Support Acts, you ask?

The second support act is emerging Soul, Jazz and Hip Hop artist MILAN RING who will be performing not only songs from her new album in the works, but will also be playing guitar for Omar! If you don’t know Petersham’s diamond in the rough, get to know her FAST! Her maturity and musicianship is of a seasoned artist lending her guitar and vocal skills across multiple bands such as Sydney’s all female Jazz band named SIRENS BIG BAND, Sydney’s unique soulstress Alphamama, and a host of others. A well sought after musician across Sydney, Milan will surely be a name you will instantaneously recognize in the future.

Of course, the Funkdafied man himself JOHN CAWLEY spinning in between acts! Respected for his strong musical skills and passion towards all things soulful, his commitment towards the Sydney scene is truly undeniable. With over 20 years experience in the industry specializing in the field of soul and jazz, his skills will take you back in time on a musical journey that encompasses all the heavy weights of the industry, weaving through the maze that is soul!

Heard through the grapevine that there will be special guests added on the night… more details yet to be confirmed. Soul of Sydney fans brace yourself! Details have yet to be announced shortly!!

On Funkdafied….

Funkdafied and Red Karpet Music are excited to present this one time only event with one of NEO SOUL’S trailblazer, OMAR! With a plethora of soul musicians heading upon our shores within the next few months leading up to until the end of the year, Funkdafied is fast becoming one of Australia’s premiere events and promotions company. Funkdafied has invested hard work and years of propagating a community from the ground roots level up. The Sydney Soul community would not be what it is today without the influence and continued support of the community. So Funkdafied says ‘Thank You!”

It’s an exciting time for Australia, and with the event of Omar’s very first one and only Sydney performance, this may be the only chance you get to see him live on our shores. Let’s face it, how often do we get soul music royalty of his caliber  grace our city? Not that often. Do yourself a favour and purchase your tickets fast! They are selling out! This is shaping up to be HUGE!!

INFORMATION

WHEN: 10th of November, 2012

WHERE: Oxford Arts Factory

Facebook invite: http://www.facebook.com/events/277783625661412/?ref=ts

MOSHTIX: http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=59664

Website: www.omarmusic.co.uk

Red Karpet Music: www.redkarpetmusic.com

Funkdafied: www.funkdafied.com.au

MILAN RING: www.milanring.com

Let’s take you back with Omar’s first single ‘There’s Nothing Like This’ KONGO RECORDS 1990

OMAR AND STEVIE WONDER ‘Feeling You’ TRU THOUGHTS LABEL 2006

TRU THOUGHTS OMAR PODCAST

PODCAST BY OMAR Released on TRU THOUGHTS 2011

HIGH FLYERS LITTLE SECRET #5 WAREHOUSE PARTY

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Funkdafied are back!

Summer of 2011 was a very busy time for the Funkdafied team, and this year is promising to be an even bigger year for our musical indulgence. Because of your continuing support that never fails to inspire us collectively, and our mutual love for quality music, we are very excited to announce a special event. You were there from the beginning and now we’re bringing it all back to where the parties first began!

Funkdafied and DigDeep Promotions have once again teamed up to create the 5th installment of High Flyers Little Secret on the 23rd of June, with an impressive line-up of international and local artists. We have a few surprises up our sleeve, after all, what’s a secret if we tell you everything in one go?  What we can disclose is that we have one of the best turntablists in the world – MR THING, a former DMC Champion and world famous Crate Digger is spinning tracks in the Funkdafied room. Joining him will be the one and only DJ HUDGE, a man with 20 years experience internationally renowned for his diverse taste in music that has seen him travel the world over. In the House Room will be legendary House music connoisseur, UK’s GRAEME PARK!

Individually, their encyclopedic knowledge spans across burgeoning periods in music’s history, witnessing the evolution of their own musical genres intensify globally. We’re all in for something quite special!

 MR. THING

MR THING

Mr. Thing aka Mark Bowles first played out at Funky Buddha parties at the Tunbridge Wells Forum. He was soon became an original ‘Scratch Pervert’ along with Tony, Joel, and Paul. In 1999 this crew one the World DMC team championships (that years final was in New York)

ITF – Euro Team Champion 1998
DMC – World Team Champion 1999
DMC – UK Champion (3rd in World) 2000

With various highly acclaimed albums under his belt including albums on the BBE Label ‘The Kings Of Hip Hop CD 2 – with DJ Premier’ and also ‘Strange Breaks & Mr Thing. Having collaborated with Yungun on numerous projects, the pair have forged a strong partnership on record and on stage. Having just released their second white label together – Jackin 4 Breaks, the pair are also working on a collaboration mixtape as well as their album “GMB (Grown Man Business)” released on Silent Soundz. GMB showcases the diversity of Mr. Thing’s production prowess that needs to be seen.

 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mr-Thing

http://www.lo-tek.co.uk/mr%20thing.htm

 

DJ HUDGE

DJ HUDGE

With 20 years under his belt as a turntablist cementing his position as the main DJ for the UK B-Boy Championships 6 years in a row. As an international DJ, Hudge has been around the world playing at major festivals, clubs, and beach parties that only a handful of lucky people have experienced. His love for Hip Hop has seen him share the stage with legendary artists such as Kurtis Blow, Kool Herc, The Scratch Perverts, Afrika Islam, Schooly D, Rahzel, Corrine Bailey Rae and a host of other artists.

http://www.djhudge.com

 

GRAEME PARK

The legendary man GRAEME PARK

Graeme Park has seen it all! Some describe him as having a doctorate in dance music. His career spans over 25 years of industry experience as a DJ, radio host, shadowing the evolution of dance/club culture. From humble beginnings working at a record store in the early eighties, his passion for emerging dance music gained him a strong reputation that paved the way for an influential career in the music industry. His residencies include The Hacienda and Summer Love, traveling the world exhaustively exposing dance music to the masses. Playing across the UK, Chicago, Detroit, New York, major festivals, clubs and arenas, Graeme was one of the first British DJs to play places like Australia, South America, the USA, Asia and beyond as well as producing and remixing tracks for the dancefloor.

 

http://thisisgraemepark.com

http://www.mixcloud.com/graemepark

http://soundcloud.com/graemepark

http://www.myspace.com/graemepark

 

Full Line up so Far:

Graeme Park, Mr Thing, DJ Hudge, Simon Caldwell, DJ Koolade, Mr Glass,

Nicc Johnson, RussTee, Karl Prinzen, Digital Love DJs.

JUST ANNOUNCED:

TOM MIDDLETON (UK)

www.tommiddleton.com

ERIC POWELL (UK)!

 

More international DJ’s to be added to the lineup and all information to be released soon!

 

The Venue…

Sun Studios has effectively remained one of Sydney’s diamond in the rough, a hidden oasis paradoxically filled with concrete, steel, high ceilings, spacious interiors, the right amount of flora, and plenty of parking for designated drivers.

It’s an alluring space made for warehouse parties, for those that know their music like it was an extension of themselves. For you, we searched high and low determined to bring Sydney a place where shared beliefs create a sense of belonging and it’s our little secret!

Everyone has a secret they keep hidden…some secrets are hard to keep; some secrets are hard to find. Some secrets keep those on the outside guessing, but if you’re a part of the secret, it can make you feel alive.

We hope you can all make it for what we’re hoping will be our biggest and best warehouse event so far. We have a massive production going into this one, and we look forward to seeing you all on the Dance Floor.

Please note first release tickets will only be on sale for a short time, so get in early to avoid disappointment!

 

INFORMATION

Tickets: $49+BF First Release, $59+BF Second Release, $69+BF Third Release

 

Time: 8pm – 3am

Venue: Sun Studios


Sun Studios		    42 Maddox Street,      Sydney NSW 2015

Buy your tickets here:

http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=56542&ref=moshtix&skin=

 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

http://www.funkdafied.com.au

http://www.facebook.com/FunkdafiedEvents

EVENT- NEO SOUL: Eric Lau @ The Burdiken 26th May 2012!

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ERIC LAU“..There’s beauty everywhere, from the smallest things, to the largest things in the universe. I feel, when I make music, it just comes through me. I’m just trying to be a part of everything else.” ERIC LAU ON MAKING MUSIC (Excerpt taken from The making of QUADRIVIUM2011)

RETURNING to Sydney for one night only is one of hip hop’s fastest rising and critically acclaimed producers – ERIC LAU (UK)! Grindin Music and Funkdafied have teamed up once again to host the return of Eric Lau who will be providing nu soul, jazz and hip hop revelers with a DJ set at The Burdekin (1st Level) on MAY 26TH, 2012.

Supporting DJ’s on the night will showcase a talented pool of music aficionados who have worked tirelessly over the years by their own merits, developing and cultivating Sydney’s niche music community with a strong thread of music parties and events for us to enjoy.

The night will feature DJ’s FRENZIE, HUWSTON, JC (FUNKDAFIED) and CMAN for a night of quality music one searches the depths of dusty basements, locked in vaults that are only stumbled upon through endless digging in crates.

Join us for an education into the trajectory of music from the past, present and future.

WHEN:   26th of May 2012

TIME:      9pm til late

WHERE: The Burdekin (1st level) 2 Oxford Street

COST:   $ 15.00 through Moshtix Or $20.00 at the door

BUY TIX HERE: http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=56769

OR EMAIL:        info@funkdafied.com.au for printed $15 Tickets

More information contact:

www.funkdafied.com.au

www.facebook.com/FunkdafiedEvents

www.grindin.net

www.ericlaumusic.com

Who is ERIC LAU?

London beat-maker ERIC LAU needs no introduction amongst producers worldwide. With a number of international artists under his belt on collaborative projects from Georgia Anne Muldrow, Guilty Simpson, Lupe Fiasco, Oddisee, Tanya Morgan, Muhsinah, Chris “Daddy” Dave, Dudley Perkins and a host of others, it’s not that often relatively unknown beat producers get to collaborate with a stunning array of artists early on in their careers.

Furthermore to his production work, Eric Lau is also a well sought after DJ contributing mixtapes on various distinguished music platforms which include legendary Gilles Peterson WorldWide, Red Bull Music Academy, BTS Radio, and Put Me On It to name a few. His DJ career has provided him the opportunity to support high profile artists such as Erykah Badu, Robert Glasper, and Questlove – all within a few short years.

Released through UBIQUITY RECORDS in 2008, Eric Lau’s debut album “New Territories” generated worldwide recognition landing him a spot in Gilles Peterson’s Top Albums of 2008 and additional support from music lovers, grounding his position in the music industry as a talented producer. With a string of instrumental albums that followed suit released through KILAWATT MUSIC, 2012 will see Eric Lau release a full length album entitled ‘One of Many’ amongst a host of other collaborative and instrumental production albums in the works.

Oddisee // Katalyst // M-phazes AND Sydney’s very first beat battle competition – 1ST OF MARCH 2012 – CIVIC UNDERGROUND, SYDNEY!

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“Few things in this world truly, really matter…The importance we place on most of the things in life is a social pressure that we put on,
that really is insignificant. When you realise that, the levels of stress just drop significantly”  - Oddisee

Over the past few years, DC has been churning out a collective of inspiring MC’s and producer’s who are united in mind, spirit, sound and message. They’re less about samples and more about emulating original  Go-Go sounds using real live instrumentation, with witty and insightful lyrics that reflect their own personal headspace and environment. Oddisee hails from this sound and is a part of this emerging wealth of creativity. Born in Washington D.C to a African American mother and a Sudanese father, creative pursuits and politics surrounded him from a young age through the family lineage of poets, musicians, and artists. He was taught to think, question and do as evidenced in the range of topics Oddisee discusses in his rhymes.

Being familiar with his music as a producer and MC, there was very little I knew about his personal insights into music, the world or his opinions about politics and humanity. If you are familiar with his lyrics, you would understand where the curiosity emanates from. The more interviews I had read from various e-zine publications, online blogs and various youtube clips, the more I discovered a free spirit, intelligent, insightful man who is not afraid of dissecting real issues.

For the first time, Sydney will experience this sound and energy as he steps foot at the Civic Hotel, Pitt Street Thursday the 1st of March, 2012 featuring some of Sydney’s finest producers performing under one roof:

KATALYST - Playing an exclusive DJ set to preview the “Quakers” a joint project with Geoff Barrow from Portishead which features 35 of Hip Hop’s dopest MC’s. The album will be out on the Stones Throw label in March.

 M-PHAZES – One of the most in demand Hip Hop producers right now who has produced for the likes of Pharaohe Monch, Talib Kweli, Bliss n Eso, Kimbra and many more. With 2 Aria Awards already under his belt, his new project “Phazed Out” is scheduled for release later this month.

Somebody thatI used to know – Goyte feat. Kimbra (M-PHAZES REMIX)

 This hip hop event will be something truly unique as Grindin Music teams up with itsofficial.com.au to proudly present their first Sydney invitational producer beat battle largely unknown by the hip hop community. Final contestants have been announced to showcase their production for the judges (M-phazes and DJ Flagrant) to determine on the night:

  1. Rob Shaker (Drapht’s tour DJ -Perth)
  2. Jacob Giles (1NFO – Sydney)
  3. Dr. Cheech (Sydney)
  4. Creed Birch (Perth)

Bare witness to 4 of Sydney’s best producers as they go head-to-head playing the illest beats in their catalogue, battling it out for bragging rights along with a gang of prizes valued at over $1,000 from Steinberg and KC Wonder Apparel!

Special producer showcase on the night which includes brand new exclusive beats from, Oddisee, M-phazes, Adit (Horroshow), S Dub and supported by Big Village’s own Ellesquire, Dj Frenzie, and DJ Ology.

WHEN: 

Thursday 1st March @ Civic Underground, 388 Pitt St, Sydney

8.00pm until late

$25 tickets through Moshtix or more on the door

Links:
Oddisee “Rock Creeek Park” Album - http://mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com/album/rock-creek-park

www.grindin.net

www.itsofficial.com.au

www.kcwonder.com.au

www.steinberg.net


"LADI6 Liberates Sydney" – REVIEW GAELIC CLUB 16.4.2011

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Niche Production presents Ladi6 and Electric Wire Hustle Tour

Churr Bro! This year kicked off with a massive highlight of international acts from major festivals proving that Australia is fast becoming a serious touring destination for prominent to underground musicians the world over. Niche Productions, yet again, held their high standard of touring acumen hosting an Electric Wire Hustle and Ladi6 national tour.

It was great to see Electric Wire Hustle return to Australia as support act for the incomparable Ladi6 at The Gaelic Club, Sydney. Electric Wire Hustle are a tight band with a lot going on musically, taking you on a journey through detailed musical adaptations of Hip Hop, Soul and Psychedelic sounds. Front man Mara TK plays and sings in his own ambience, eyes closed a majority of the time on stage. It’s like he doesn’t need to look up to know we’re all having a great time. He basks in his own creation, poised, self contained and almost introverted. Their debut album on the other hand is bold, adventurous and translates well live on stage. Having seen them not too long ago for their first ever Australian performance at Tone, this second encounter was a treat playing a new song from their 2nd album which has yet to be released. A little birdy told me towards the end of the year. Let’s hope it’s sooner. I have a lot of love for this band and I know they’ll continue to push the boundaries.

Queen of the Night…


The first time I saw Ladi6 was three or four years ago as the back up singer for her cousin Scribe at The Enmore theatre who was support act for Talib Kweli at the time. Even as a backup singer, she had presence. If I could read into her future back then, I’d predict a woman who’s future as a purposeful musician was written in the stars, long before she knew the power of her musical ability, cemented long before the birth of Karoline Tamati – her birth name. But she needed time to come into her own. Time is not much, but she grew into the confident artist she is now, so time is everything or more to the point, timing is everything.

Wearing all black and a conspicuous shiny gold head piece draped over her head, Ladi6 commanded your attention and you couldn’t help but fall under this compelling spell made even more powerful with her alluring hand movements. Feet slightly apart with one foot in front of the other in a boxer’s stance, her hands told stories of their own. Her posture meant she was serious about providing an entertaining show, propelling all that she had of herself in her performance. Whether it was her emotive vocal delivery, or her smashing the crash cymbal repeatedly with full force (I thought she was going to break the stick and poke an eye out), or her jumping around on stage, Ladi6 ain’t your average performer. Her setlist comprised a majority of tracks from her new album – dare I say it, she played her entire album with the exclusion of a couple, three tracks from her debut album ‘Time is Not Much‘ with a remix rock version of ‘Walk Right Up‘ as her encore performance.  Stand out tracks were ’BANG BANG‘, ‘Jazmine D.L’, ‘Goodday’, ‘Like Water’, ‘Burn With Me’, ‘KOLN’, ’98 til Now’ and ‘Call You Out’.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Ladi6′s sophomore album “The Liberation of…” is a strong continuation of creative outpouring from New Zealand’s first lady of Hip Hop and Soul! She is confident in this album. She has come into a new phase and this album articulates her maturity and confidence as an artist. Having spent months in Berlin mid last year for the recording of her new album in between umpteen New Zealand and international tours dates in 2010, this year will see her performing countless more European shows. The most recent addition to her 2011 dates is ‘The BIG CHILL tour’ – a major 3 day festival based in London shared this year by the likes of Kanye West, Andreya Triana, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Horace Andy, Janelle Monae, Aloe Blacc, Femi Kuti and the Positive Force, Neneh Cherry, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Robert Plant and the Band of Joy, Electric Wire Hustle and a host of others.

They say don’t believe the hype. BELIEVE this one. Her strong presence on stage is fluid, feminine, tough, confident, fun and timid at the same time. Her vocal delivery, witty lyrical content and overall musical production makes Ladi6 a force in the industry. I wish her all the best, cos she deserves it. It takes a different type of person with thick skin, focus and skill to stick it out in an industry that can kill the essence of one’s artistic integrity. I’d like to think hers is still safely intact.

It’s look like a promising future for both Electric Wire Hustle and Ladi6 as they continue to create a larger than life presence around the world. I’d love to be selfish and claim these two as our own, but really, New Zealand is grooming and holding down their own unique artists without the help of anyone else. It’s just in their blood. Definite highlight of the year so far.

Thanks to:
Sam Taouk of Soul of Sydney

Niche Productions

Ladi6

Electric Wire Hustle

Photos by:

tee eightch PHOTOGRAPHY

“LADI6 Liberates Sydney” – REVIEW GAELIC CLUB 16.4.2011

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Niche Production presents Ladi6 and Electric Wire Hustle Tour

Churr Bro! This year kicked off with a massive highlight of international acts from major festivals proving that Australia is fast becoming a serious touring destination for prominent to underground musicians the world over. Niche Productions, yet again, held their high standard of touring acumen hosting an Electric Wire Hustle and Ladi6 national tour.

It was great to see Electric Wire Hustle return to Australia as support act for the incomparable Ladi6 at The Gaelic Club, Sydney. Electric Wire Hustle are a tight band with a lot going on musically, taking you on a journey through detailed musical adaptations of Hip Hop, Soul and Psychedelic sounds. Front man Mara TK plays and sings inside his own ambience with eyes closed a majority of the time on stage. It’s like he doesn’t need to look up to know we’re all having a great time. He basks in his own creation, poised, self contained and almost introverted. Their debut album on the other hand is bold, adventurous and translates well live on stage. Having seen them not too long ago for their first ever Australian performance at Tone, this second encounter was a treat playing a new song from their 2nd album which has yet to be released. A little birdy told me towards the end of the year. Let’s hope it’s sooner. I have a lot of love for this band and I know they’ll continue to push the boundaries.

Queen of the Night…


The first time I saw Ladi6 was three or four years ago as the back up singer for her cousin Scribe at The Enmore theatre who was support act for Talib Kweli at the time. Even as a backup singer, she had presence. If I could read into her future back then, I’d predict a woman who’s future as a purposeful musician was written in the stars long before she knew the power of her musical ability, cemented long before the birth of Karoline Tamati – her birth name. But she needed time to come into her own. Time is not much, but she grew into the confident artist she is now so time is everything or more to the point, timing is everything.

Wearing all black and a conspicuous shiny gold head piece draped over her head, Ladi6 commanded your attention and you couldn’t help but fall under this compelling spell made even more powerful with her alluring hand movements. Feet slightly apart with one foot in front of the other in a boxer’s stance, her hands told stories of their own. Her posture meant she was serious about providing an entertaining show, propelling all that she had of herself in her performance. Whether it was her emotive vocal delivery, or her smashing the crash cymbal repeatedly with full force (I thought she was going to break the stick and poke an eye out), or her jumping around on stage, Ladi6 ain’t your average performer. Her setlist comprised a majority of tracks from her new album – dare I say it, she played her entire album with the exclusion of a couple, and three tracks from her debut album ‘Time is Not Much‘ with a remix rock version of ‘Walk Right Up‘ as her encore performance.  Stand out tracks were ’BANG BANG‘, ‘Jazmine D.L’, ‘Goodday’, ‘Like Water’, ‘Burn With Me’, ‘KOLN’, ’98 til Now’ and ‘Call You Out’.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Ladi6′s sophomore album “The Liberation of…” is a strong continuation of creative outpouring from New Zealand’s first lady of Hip Hop and Soul! She is confident in this album. She has come into a new phase and this album articulates her maturity and confidence as an artist. Having spent months in Berlin mid last year for the recording of her new album in between umpteen New Zealand and international tours dates in 2010, this year will see her performing countless more European shows. The most recent addition to her 2011 dates is ‘The BIG CHILL tour’ – a major 3 day festival based in London shared this year by the likes of Kanye West, Andreya Triana, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Horace Andy, Janelle Monae, Aloe Blacc, Femi Kuti and the Positive Force, Neneh Cherry, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Robert Plant and the Band of Joy, Electric Wire Hustle and a host of others.

They say don’t believe the hype. BELIEVE this one. Her strong presence on stage is fluid, feminine, tough, confident, fun and timid at the same time. Her vocal delivery, witty lyrical content and overall musical production makes Ladi6 a force in the industry. I wish her all the best, cos she deserves it. It takes a different type of person with thick skin, focus and skill to stick it out in an industry that can kill the essence of one’s artistic integrity. I’d like to think hers is still safely intact.

It’s look like a promising future for both Electric Wire Hustle and Ladi6 as they continue to create a larger than life presence around the world. I’d love to be selfish and claim these two as our own, but really, New Zealand is grooming and holding down their own unique artists without the help of anyone else. It’s just in their blood. Definite highlight of the year so far.

Thanks to:
Sam Taouk of Soul of Sydney

Niche Productions

Ladi6

Electric Wire Hustle

Photos by:

tee eightch PHOTOGRAPHY

MAYER HAWTHORNE AND THE COUNTY BACK IN SYDNEY!!!

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“Sometimes, you just know it’s the right thing to do.” - PEANUT BUTTER WOLF ON SIGNING MAYER HAWTHORNE TO STONES THROW LABEL (Stones Throw Biography.)

Mayer Hawthorne’s debut album released in 2009 titled “A Strange Arrangement” had me thinking  from a musical and cultural point of view. What constitutes ‘a strange arrangement’, or more to the point, what constitutes his strange arrangement? One can only assume having not heard the answer from the blue-eyed multi-instrumentalist, producer, singer/song writer, audio engineer and DJ himself. Is it the falsetto melody and harmonies far removed from the fixed paradigms of commercial radio appeal? Is it the much talked about white boy emulating the sounds of a bygone era dominated by a rich Black culture? Could it be the guileless, wide-eyed innocence of his lyrical content juxtaposed to the lyrical emptiness heard in generic radio culture we are submerged in? I may be thinking far too much into this, but his strange arrangement comes at a time when the likes of Mark Ronson, Janelle Monae, Cee-Lo, Duffy, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Jamie Lidell, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings (to name but a few) are bringing back the Motown sound to a wider audience, deconstructing the soul sound and injecting their own adaptation of soul music into the industry.

 

Back in Australia to tour as part of Niche Productions next line of superb musical outfits, Mayer Hawthorne and the County will be gracing our shores on the 19th of February, 2011 at the Manning Bar in Sydney. Hawthorne is one of the most refreshing artists to come from the prestigious Stones Throw label and it’s no surprise when his production keeps in essence the spirit of soul music, paying respect to original mentors of this sound. His debut album ‘A Strange Arrangement’  is stripped back, uncomplicated, warm and infectious. Hawthorne has openly confessed original soul musicians such as Curtis Mayfield, Smokey Robinson, Barry White, Isaac Hayes as his strong influences which are apparent on this album, with a strong affinity and respect for the late great Hip Hop producer J DILLA.

 

I was privileged to attend last years Basement gig which saw Mayer Hawthorne and Theo Parrish on the same bill in January, 2010. The room peaked full capacity before Hawthorne entered the stage, and to my surprise, the crowd dissipated revealing a handful of Theo Parrish devotees. Sydney was in love with Mayer Hawthorne. His stage presence was cheeky, vocally on point and as a band, The County were incredibly tight! Hawthorne was but a whisper on people’s lips at that point in time only having heard of Mayer Hawthorne’s album at the tail end of 2009. There were heavy murmurs amongst many industry folks regarding this artist, and with the help of the internet buzz surrounding Hawthorne’s successful debut album, his first single “Just ain’t gonna work out/When I said Goodbye” seemed to pop up on facebook and music blogs around the world.

Mayer lives and breathes music producing and performing hip hop under the moniker HAIRCUT, is one third of LA experimental melody driven hip hop outfit NOW ON,  and a member ATHLETIC MIC LEAGUE - a hip hop crew of six Mc’s and one DJ. The task of creating his own album as ‘Mayer Hawthorne’ is not just an impressive feat amongst a busy schedule of DJ gigs and performances, but this blue -eyed crooner took on the task of playing most of the instruments on ‘A Strange Arrangement’.

This is going to be one VERY special night of nu soul music with support acts from Melbourne’s phenomenal soul act ELECTRIC EMPIRE, with DJ’s Mike Corbett and Miss Micah (inertia) spinning for the masses!

Tickets available through moshtix!!

JUST AIN’T GONNA WORK OUT

 

ONE TRACK MIND

 

MAYER HAWTHORNE INTERVIEW – NEW YORK 2009

 

Support Act: ELECTRIC EMPIRE EPK

 

ELECTRIC EMPIRE “BABY YOUR LOVING”

 

NEO-SOUL,HIP HOP,SOUL: DJ Naiki – “Erykah Badu Old & The New Mixtape” Part #1

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This is the first Installment of the mixtape series 2011 by one of Australia’s most in demand, hard working, and diverse dj’s – DJ NAIKI. This mixtape is called “Badu – The old and the New”.

Leaving Japan in 1994, DJ Naiki’s love and obsession for music grew exponentially teaming with various organizations, becoming one of our most respected DJ’s. Naiki’s fast paced turntable persona and music selection, and ability to chief rock any crowd has led him to become one of Australia’s most respected and in demand DJs. One of the founding members of the Chiefrockers, DJ Naiki has performed at many high profile shows and afterparties, for groups like Naughty By Nature, DJ Ca$h Money, Mystro, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Krush Tour, NSW DMC Finals 1999 – 2002, and was one of the official DJs at the Olympic Village during the Sydney Olympics. Most recently DJ Naiki opened up the Sydney show of the Mobb Deep Blood Money Tour. DJ Naiki is renowned for his incredible record collection, and his classic old school mix tapes. This is a mixtape series in time for her debut performance in Australia for GOOD VIBES FESTIVAL!

Free to download or listen!

http://soundcloud.com/krysteldiolitadiola/erykah-badu-master-a-by-dj-naiki

TRACK LIST: ERYKAH BADU MIX “The old and the New”

  1. INTRO
  2. WINDOW SEAT / ERYKAH BADU
  3. TOUCH A FOUR LEAF CLOVER / ATLANTIC STARR
  4. FOUR LEAF CLOVER / ERYKAH BADU
  5. CLEVA / ERYKAH BADU
  6. SEARCHIN’(LIVE) / ERYKAH BADU
  7. I’M IN LOVE / NANCY WILSON
  8. HONEY / ERYKAH BADU
  9. YOU CAN’T TURN ME AWAY / SYLVIA STRIPLIN
  10. TURN ME AWAY(GET MUNNY) / ERYKAH BADU
  11. BUMP IT PT1 + ;PT2 / ERYKAH BADU
  12. LOVE OF MY LIFE(AN ODE TO HIPHOP) / ERYKAH BADU
  13. BACK IN THE DAY(PUFF) / ERYKAH BADU
  14. SHINING STAR / D’ANGELO FEAT.THE ROOTS ERYKAH BADU
  15. DAYLIGHT / RAMP
  16. COME CLOSE(REMIX) / COMMON FEAT. ERYKAH BADU,Q-TIP,PHARRELL
  17. OPEN YOUR EYES / BOBBY CALDWELL
  18. THE LIGHT(REMIX) / COMMON FEAT. ERYKAH BADU
  19. APPLE TREE / ERYKAH BADU
  20. LOVE OF MY LIFE WORLDWIDE / ERYKAH BADU,ANGIE STONE,BAHAMADIA QUEEN LATIFAH
  21. THINK TWICE / DONALD BYRD
  22. THINK TWICE / ERYKAH BADU
  23. BUG LADY / ERYKAH BADU
  24. ON & ON / ERYKAH BADU
  25. YOU GOT ME / THE ROOTS FEAT.ERYKAH BADU
  26. CERTAINLY(FLIP IT) / ERYKAH BADU
  27. OUTRO (SUMMER MADNESS)/ KOOL & THE GANG

DJ NAIKI details:

http://www.facebook.com/djnaiki

http://www.myspace.com/djnaiki

http://stolenrecords.fm/2010/07/20/dj-naiki-a-tribe-called-questnative-tongue-tribute-mix/ http://www.triplerebels.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=20&Itemid=16

Follow Australian Erykah Badu facebook petition for more news on Erykah Badu’s tour dates for Good Vibes Festival 2011: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=139973916182

Related articles

DJ MISS MICAH: Second installment of “BADU MIXTAPE SERIES” for facebook petition!

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Erykah Badu hits town for Good Vibrations Festival in 11days! This is the second DJ Mixtape series installment for the ERYKAH ‘I WANT YOU’ facebook petition by Sydney’s own up-and-coming well sought after DJ’s – MISS MICAH!

Miss Micah is Sydney DJ and Radio Producer Micah Araniego. Exposed to a wealth of music through her many years volunteering at FBi Radio and through her day job at Inertia Music, Miss Micah sifts through dozens of releases every week to come up with the best in Hip-Hop, Reggae-Dancehall, Disco and Pop for her
broad ranging sets which take in the above influences and more.

Cutting her teeth with guests spots at World Bar’s weekly installation ‘The Wall’ and also seen DJing with fellow colleague Pocahontas, Miss Micah quickly nabbed peoples attention with her clever mix of the familiar, current cutting edge winners and obscure rarities and has gone on to perform at Playground Weekender, and alongside Salt n Pepa’s DJ Spinderella. You can also find her spinning tunes at a host of Sydney bars and nightspots.

Miss Micah starts 2011 with a bang! With an exclusive Hip Hop mix for the Soul of Sydney Blog, had recently played at the Green Room during Big Day Out in January, and a coveted support slot for Stones Throw Records’ soul man Mayer Hawthorne and the County in February. This is just a taste of things to come for one of the city’s most promising up and comers.

Don’t sleep on this! This is just a small treat for you all!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/e6dmrh

TRACKLIST for “Stone Cold Chillin’ ” Mixtape series:

jump up in the air – erykah badu
lift me up (traxxamillion rmx) – zion i & the grouch
the one another (wajeed rmx) – onra
sugarless – the one
unbelievable – the notorious b.i.g
hip dip skippedabeat – mtume
jeff’n fess – dj jazzy jeff/rhymefest

Third installment to come VERY soon…

MORE ON THE MAYER HAWTHORNE GIG IN THE NEXT COMING DAYS! If you’ve never had the chance to see Mayer perform, this gig is a MUST!

DJ MISS MICAH: Second installment of "BADU MIXTAPE SERIES" for facebook petition!

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Erykah Badu hits town for Good Vibrations Festival in 11days! This is the second DJ Mixtape series installment for the ERYKAH ‘I WANT YOU’ facebook petition by Sydney’s own up-and-coming well sought after DJ’s – MISS MICAH!

Miss Micah is Sydney DJ and Radio Producer Micah Araniego. Exposed to a wealth of music through her many years volunteering at FBi Radio and through her day job at Inertia Music, Miss Micah sifts through dozens of releases every week to come up with the best in Hip-Hop, Reggae-Dancehall, Disco and Pop for her
broad ranging sets which take in the above influences and more.

Cutting her teeth with guests spots at World Bar’s weekly installation ‘The Wall’ and also seen DJing with fellow colleague Pocahontas, Miss Micah quickly nabbed peoples attention with her clever mix of the familiar, current cutting edge winners and obscure rarities and has gone on to perform at Playground Weekender, and alongside Salt n Pepa’s DJ Spinderella. You can also find her spinning tunes at a host of Sydney bars and nightspots.

Miss Micah starts 2011 with a bang! With an exclusive Hip Hop mix for the Soul of Sydney Blog, had recently played at the Green Room during Big Day Out in January, and a coveted support slot for Stones Throw Records’ soul man Mayer Hawthorne and the County in February. This is just a taste of things to come for one of the city’s most promising up and comers.

Don’t sleep on this! This is just a small treat for you all!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/e6dmrh

TRACKLIST for “Stone Cold Chillin’ ” Mixtape series:

jump up in the air – erykah badu
lift me up (traxxamillion rmx) – zion i & the grouch
the one another (wajeed rmx) – onra
sugarless – the one
unbelievable – the notorious b.i.g
hip dip skippedabeat – mtume
jeff’n fess – dj jazzy jeff/rhymefest

Third installment to come VERY soon…

MORE ON THE MAYER HAWTHORNE GIG IN THE NEXT COMING DAYS! If you’ve never had the chance to see Mayer perform, this gig is a MUST!

PUSHING BOUNDARIES: ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE (gig review at Tone Bar, Sydney)

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So this review has taken a while to write due to personal issues I had to ride out… Alas…

That’s all we wanted. ONE. MORE. SONG. Just one more….

When one talks about ‘pushing boundaries’, this entails a level of thinking that differs from the average person, an execution of this thought pattern that challenges the existing modes of thinking, unlocking a part of one’s mind to the possibility that there is more to experience, more to learn, more to express and more to feel. Tone Bar experienced this level of exertion when Electric Wire Hustle stepped foot on stage for their debut album launch performance in Australia. It has been a while since I’ve wanted a live act to play one more song. It wasn’t just a plea of my own, but a collective  of EWH fans bellowing from sporadic parts of the dance floor, encouraging New Zealand’s next level artists to play just one more song. It didn’t happen, but what did happen that night showed Sydney fans that EWH have what it takes to take the music industry up another notch. Their unique form of sonic self expression is something unlike I’ve heard in the last 10 years, so to see them before my own eyes with adoring fans was indeed one of the highlights of 2010.

Wearing a brown leather jacket and a black hoodie underneath, lead singer MARA TK took to the stage armed with his unique soulful vocals, his electric and bass guitar,with a chilled attitude that the rest of the band seemed to naturally ooze. An attitude that set the right ‘tone’ for the rest of the night. They were just three unassuming musicians playing because they love it. Keyboardist David “TaayNinh” Wright played every note with a head nod that was contagious. Their set list comprised of most tracks from their album and a surprise performance cover of Curtis Mayfield’s ‘Move on Up’ with New Zealand’s Isaac Aesili on the trumpet, Rachel Fraser singing backing vocals, and Sydney sider Simon Kaye on the flugal horn. That in itself was a supreme highlight of the night, with each musician showcasing their skills on each instrument.

As much as I dislike focusing on one individual, particularly when the quality of performance on a whole was of high quality standards, special mention has to go to EWH’s drummer, classically jazzed trained Myele Manzanza. I’m not a drummer so excuse the lack of cohesive terminology, but Myele played off beat, on beat, triplets, grabs, with a solo moment showcasing his high skills – he teased the crowd. Myele played as you would expect a free jazz improv drummer to, with just the right quietness to allow the others members to shine. If it’s not the melody that captures my attention, it has to be the beat and Myele’s drumming moved me to do my infamous air drumming through-out the entire night.

Once again, thank you to Niche Productions for pushing the envelope, knowing what real music is and sharing it with us all. Log on to their website for new sohws in the new year! Next year will be a huge one for live music! HUGE!

If you get the chance to see Electric Wire Hustle live at some point in your life, do it! Many blogs on line have praised this New Zealand band including Okay Player having given this album 91 out of 100. I can’t stress enough how much this band will explode on to the international music scene. It’s better than Kanye West’s recent album. There. I said it.

Happy Christmas and don’t drink AND drive!

 

 

ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE ARE IN SYDNEY!!

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I was introduced to ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE at the beginning of this year by a close mate of mine who had been the lead singer’s room mate back in Christchurch. I have been mesmerized by their sound ever since. How do you encapsulate in words EWH’s sound without sticky taping labels that don’t seem to have a firm hold on them? Their sound can be best described as psychedelic, off beat hip hop with soul as the epicenter of their muse, splash a bit of jazz and contemporary electronica, and you have a sound that cannot be contained. It needs to be heard. They seem to inherently resist labels not from their own doing, but it’s like a sin trying to pigeon hole this band. It’s just wrong! They don’t care to fit a mould, or to stick to a typical formulaic generic sound of beats and samples. It’s the finer details that seem to make more noise than the framework itself. They stand out because they take risks, they experiment with sounds, instrumentation, tempo, mood, and dive deep in the multi layers of musical freedom. Plus, they know to loiter in the moment, for us to wait it out and journey with them through the raw landscape of dreamy sounds. EWH take their time and sit with you.

Electric Wire Hustle hail from Wellington, New Zealand, a three piece band – Mara (vocals/bass/guitar), Taay Ninh (bass/keyboards/MPC) and Myele Manzanza (drums/percussion), signed to the label BBE and WONDERFUL NOISE (Jpn). 2007 saw the band unite for the first time playing shows around New Zealand with a large following that soon built momentum around their native land. Their strong stage presence and unique sound traveled across the seas affording them the privilege of support act for international artists the likes of UK’s soul singer Alice Russell, America’s left field hip hop outfit SA-RA Creative Partners, Japan’s DJ Krush and Grooveman Spot, Talib Kweli, Peanut Butterwolf, Jean Grae and DAM FUNK. Electric Wire Hustle have also had the remarkable privilege of collaborating with well respected musicians from Georgia Ann Muldrow, Declaime, Stacy Epps and Steve Spacek, with a special guest appearance by MARA TK’s father  - New Zealand’s blues luminary BILLY TK. Keep in mind they have still yet to take the world by storm. Not bad for three years of musical development!

Revered by Gilles Peterson, BBC’s Radio 1Xtra DJ Benj B, LA’s DJ JAMAD, NY’s Tyler Askew, it’s no wonder the well respected Revivalist blog has also taken to their sound with pure curiosity and open arms at the prestigious College Music Journal Festival (CMJ). Surrounding themselves with talented hip hop and jazz musicians in New York City for CMJ festival, EWH performed to an audience that were hard to impress due to the amount of new music the festival had hosted all day and night. EWH appeared on stage positively cementing their position amongst New York’s music hungry elitist crowd. They released this album in New Zealand at the tail end of 2009 through their own label Every Waking Hour, only to then get signed to BBE (worldwide) and Wonderful Noise (Japan). “Perception” was the first single to be released in New Zealand receiving critical acclaim world wide:

““Electric Wire Hustle are at the forefront of talented musicians dedicated to putting out superior music and it’s a damn shame that the airwaves aren’t flooded with what this album offers, because it would well be worth it.”
Soulculture.co.uk

“A great blend of forward thinking hip hop, jazz and soul.”

Waajeed (Platinum Pied Pipers, Bling47, Ubiquity)

Niche Productions have hit the nail on the head again touring EWH down to Melbourne and Sydney for their long awaited album launch of the same name ‘Electric Wire Hustle’! EWH are to hit Sydney tomorrow night at TONE, Surry Hills.  You’ll find collaborations from the above mentioned, plus an interesting scope into what the future of soul music is developing into. This album holds hands with time and simplicity, layering smooth vocal tones provided by Mara TK, allowing the energy to shape the mood without rushing into a middle eight, or bridge to capture one’s attention. It’s live instrumentation so you know you’ll be in for a real treat to genuine musicianship! To me, DAM FUNK and ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE are two major players in the music industry that will (f not already) take the underground world by storm through strength in simplicity and sound escapism. Get to know Electric Wire Hustle, they’re staying. They’re staying for good!

Tickets available through moshtix or at the door! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!! DJ Huwston from 2ser’s SOUL GLOW will be DJing on the night! No doubt you’ll be hearing something new, perhaps a new Jay Electronica track in celebration of being signed to Rocnation! That’s another blog there…

LA @ ZANZIBAR GIG (Mara TK)

 

ALBUM TEASERS:

THEY DON’T WANT

 

PERCEPTION

 

PINBOARDBLOG.COM PRESENT “ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE” REHEARSAL – ‘Water’


 

EPK

 

 

THANKS TO:

Niche Productions

TONE

(16 WENTWORTH AVENUE, SURRY HILLS)

creative nz

ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE

twitter * facebook * website * myspace

ELECTRIC WIRE HUSTLE PLAYING LIVE @ TONE WEDNESDAY 17/11/2010

 

RETURN OF THE REAL AND SOULPOWER presents Isaac Aesili featuring Rachel Fraser and They Ray Mann Three plus DJ’s @ TONE, 12th of NOVEMBER!

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Musicians don’t retire, they stop when there’s no music left in them… “Louis Armstrong”
Grindin’ and Funkdafied  have teamed up to present ‘Return of the Real’ featuring New Zealand’s Isaac Aesili and Rachel Fraser with our very own soul connoisseurs The Ray Mann Three, plus special guests. We will be creating the ultimate soul experience at Tone on the 12th of November!


ISAAC AESILI WITH RACHAEL FRASER (NZ)
A consummate multi instrumentalist and beatmaker, Isaac Aesili’s debut album ‘Eye See’ is a representation of the diverse world we live in. Rich textures of reggae, dub, electronica and soft soulful r&b are woven intricately to create a landscape of futuristic escapism. It’s like astral traveling, yet you can still feel the dirt in between your toes.

Isaac Aesili and Rachel Fraser @ TONE

Described as one of the most humblest beings, Isaac’s album collaboration consists of vocals from Mara TK from Electric Wire Hustle, Aaradhna, Deva Mahal, Rosita Vai, and Rachael Fraser who will be accompanying him to Australia.

Described by Benji B as  ”One of the most exciting soul talents to emerge from the South Pacific!” (Benji B, Deviation; BBC1 Xtra), Isaac is will be armed on stage with an MPC and trumpet, plus amazing soul singer Rachael Fraser, transforming you into another world.

www.myspace.com/isaacaesili

RAY MANN THREE (SYD)
Hailing from Sydney, our soul connoisseurs are knowledgeable in technique and form, raw, funky, cheeky and talented. With a strong loyal following built over years of local performances at venues around town, Ray Mann Three have taken their distinctive sound across local borders touring all over Australia and Japan whilst sitting down! Yup, the guys sit on their comfy seats, perform their instruments and entice you to join a night of playful intimacy.

THE RAY MANN THREE

The Ray Mann Three’s CV is quite impressive having supported for Tori Amos, AL Green, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Jamie Lidell, Roy Ayers, Kate Miller Heidke, The Bamboo’s, Ash Grundwall and Holy Throsby.

In May 2008, Ray Mann Three released their anticipated album of the same title boosting their national following. Sydney morning Herald described their sound as a fusion of “…D’angelo’s sex appeal with the grit of Tom Waits.”

It’s music that you loose yourself in….

www.myspace.com/theraymannthree

www.ray-mann.com

DJ’s on the night are Stephan Ferris, Huwston, JC Funkdafied and Thomas Crown!

Join us for a night of what Sydney has been yearning and missing… If there’s anything that we need more of, it’s the return of the real!
FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE:
For more information on the venue, please log on to their website www.tone.net.au and subscribe to their mailing list.

From Return or the Real and Soul Power Team:

Grindin‘ , Funkdafied and KRYSTEL diolita DIOLA

 

ISAAC AESILI and RACHEL FRASER “I’m All In”

 

THE RAY MANN THREE “Smile”



REVIEW: Kon and The Transatlantics at The Basement [21.8.2010]

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Thanks to Niche Productions, The Basement hosted a night of great live soul music from Adelaide band The Transatlantics on the 21st of August, later to boogie down to the disco sounds of Kon, one half of Brooklyn based highly esteemed internationally renowned vinyl connoisseurs Kon and Amir.

Adelaide 8 piece The Transatlantics

The night began with live music from the 10 piece band The Transatlantics who are essentially an 8 piece band. Visually, you would expect a thunderous sound with two guitarists, bass player, drummer, trumpeter, trombonist, a baritone saxophonist, vocalist and two backup singers. To my surprise, their sound was incredibly tight  and powerful in a self contained manner.  It wasn’t about ostentatious solo’s or belting out tunes, rather the finer details, accents and the subtle call-and-responses that could have easily  been dismissed as repetitive nuances. I couldn’t help but be transported into a different epoch – the late 50’s and 60’s.  Their sound not only transported me to a different era, but it was like soaking in southern American heat (I used to live in Texas), waiting for the cool change of breeze, when all you could do was play by the river till late in the evening without a damn care – youthful bliss . In other words, their dynamic sound makes you feel carefree!

No doubt you’ll be hearing more of this band leading into summer festivals. Keep a good ear out for them!

And then there was Kon…

The night follwed by a DJ set from Kon of  legendary duo Kon and Amir. Kon’s musical background is deep, knowledgable in multiple genres, with vast expertise in the world of vinyl ‘diggin’ and production. Some claim his DJ sets are an historical musical journey from beginning to present, seamless and rare. It was good to see a crowd had remained to hear Kon’s set albiet increasingly drunk the crowd came to be and not what I had expected Kon’s crowd to attract.  Kon started on shakey ground that evening playing tracks to a room full of music lovers set to hear the DJ play rare disco boogie/soul tracks, instead with difficulty mixing one track into the other, he started off with electro hip hop, to radio disco bangers, dropping tracks that you wouldn’t expect a man with such musical depth and knowledge to drop.

My eyebrows were slightly raised at his musical selection, nonetheless as the night advanced, so did his musical crate and skills. Let’s just say it was a smart move on my part to espouse patience and stay past 1am. It did take him a while to warm up to the crowd, dropping classic tracks like “Candy Girl” by New Edition,  De La Soul’s ‘Me, Myself and I’, Michael Jackson, Four Tops’ “Reach Out”, then flawlessly beat juggling a number of times throughout his set, scratching in between tracks, then finally sticking to rare ghetto disco, to soul and african boogie.

He eased into his role as the boucing musical conductor, orchestrating an unrivalled disco boogie set with a dash of rare soul. This was what I had been waiting for – the commanding conductor. His known reputation as a fierce crate diggin’ aficionado was well put to the test with grooves that took us all to –  yet again, another era. That evening proved that music can make you travel through time. I felt I had traveled through  4 decades of music to come back on the other end in of the present time scale, only wanting more of the nostalgia.

Music was better back then. With the help of DJ’s and producers such as Kon, it’s longevity will remain in the hands of those who have an insatiable hunger to protect it’s genre from becoming extinct, protecting it by means of playing the genre out to the masses, travelling oceans, hand-to-hand, fibre optics and cables to keep the genre alive.

Definitely worth the wait….

“Off Track Vol III ” by Kon and Amir is out now through BBE records.

Click play below to give it a listen or find it on mixcloud.

ARTICLE ON 3D WORLD:

Kon interview press image.

FreshIn and StickUpKids are proud to present: ANTE UP Vol.2!!

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brought to you by FreshIn and Stick Up Kids...

With the success of ANTE UP’s debut event featuring Sean Ray as special DJ on the night, FreshIn and Stick Up Kids are proud to present volume 2  ANTE UP happening this Saturday the 3rd of July, 2010! It’s all about Hip Hop jams from the 90′s, current anthems to date and of course, New Jack Swing!

Special DJ on the night will be Miss self confessed sneaker freaker obsessed hip hop  DJ M.A.F.I.A from Melbourne, with the ANTE UP family DJ’s spinning dope music you won’t hear in clubs, but would rather the DJ’s played it! It’s all about great music and no posers! Come as you are, kick it on the dancefloor and enjoy music with good vibes and good people!

77 Oxford Street @ Brighton Up Bar (Opposite Doctor Pong’s)! Doors open at 9pm!

Just a side note:

FreshIn along side Well Dressed Vandals, Acclaim Magazine, Thirteen Itches and more are hosting a day of fashion, culture and music leading up to ANTE UP! The day kicks off at 11am and as follows:

11am - Mishka Warehouse Sale
FreshIn and Well Dressed Vandals T-Shirt release
Thirteen Itches Vol. 2 Collection Release
Dirtyrich Pop Up Store

1pm – BBQ hosted by Itches Crew (Food Supplied- BYO)

4pm - FreshIn x Thirteen Itches Langley F.C. collection release
FIFA World Cup 2010 PS3 Tournament

6pm - Acclaim Mag Japan Issue presents “DROP EVERYTHING: A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY TO THE RISING SUN”

9pm – ANTE UP 2 featuring the world famous DJ M.A.F.I.A. and residents killing the dance floor!!

FreshIn is located on 17a Langley Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010.

Whoop!! Whoop!!