Jeru The Damaja Freestyle

Here's a freestyle for you guys straight from Jeru the Damaja. Jeru has been on the east coast scene for years now, his collection of work contains classic production from legends like DJ Premier. And Jeru always holds it down on the mic with his lyricism. He's having a little fun on this one with Rahzel providing the beat box, but if you haven't heard any other of his material check out the track "Ain't the Devil Happy," below.

Erykah Badu & Madlib- "Strawberry Incense"

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of posting lately it has been a hectic week at school and time management is not exactly my specialty. Anyway, lets get things rolling again with this new track from Erykah Badu off her upcoming album "Return of the Ankh." This features production from Madlib, who is on fire in the early stages of this year. Badu is one of the more talented singers out there with a heavy hip-hop influence, so check out her website which has the track playing in the background.

http://www.erykahbadu.com/

Reflection Eternal- In This World Music Video

The first Reflection Eternal album (Train of Thought) is some of the most soulful hip hop you'll ever hear. I consider it to be a classic, when Talib Kweli and Hi Tek come together it's a guarantee that beautiful things will come out of it. Therefore, the hip hop world is eagerly waiting for this album "Revolutions Per Minute," to drop. This is one of the singles from the project called "In this World." Kweli is one of the smartest rappers out there and he rips this beat apart. We also finally get to hear the famous Jay Z line from "Moment of Clarity" sampled and scratched by Hi Tek on a Kweli track. To remind everybody, this is when Hova declared that, "If skills sold truth be told, I'd probably be, lyrically Talib Kweli." Despite my dislike for Jay Z, I can't say he's wrong with that statement. Check below for the track and I also included song "Too Late," from the first Reflection Eternal. Pay money for this shit when it comes out in April, it'll be worth it.

Marco Polo and Ruste Juxx "Rearview"

Man, Marco Polo has been on a roll the past couple years. From "Port Authority" to his collaboration with Torae on "Double Barrel", he's been cookin up bangers that are impossible to ignore. Ruste is a quality emcee and there's no doubt that these two will mesh together nicely on this record. Take a listen to this track from the album "The eXXecution," which should be coming out on the Duck Down label within a couple of months. I've also included solo joints from both Marco Polo and Ruste Juxx to let y'all know what these guys are capable of.

JROCC Spins New Madvillain

This has been on the Internet for awhile, but it's never not the right time to promote MF Doom and Madlib. These are snippets from the new project, Madvillain 2, which should be coming out sometime this year. The first collaboration between these two was a classic, so everyone has high expectations for the sequel. Give it a listen and get excited. I also included the track "Strange Ways," from the first album to give you guys an idea of what to anticipate.

New Slick Rick Freestyle

Folks, there is only one Slick Rick and whenever he puts out new material, its worth your while to listen. That verse he had on Mos Def's album last year was ridiculous, The Ruler is still killin it and he dropped this freestyle on his Facebook page. Give it a listen and be grateful. When people use the word swag in daily conversation, this is what they should be talking about.

Throwback Joint: The Pharcyde- She Said (Jay Dee Remix)

The throwback joint for tonight is completely different from my last post, which featured Diabolic and Vinnie Paz spitting hardcore lyrics. One of the reasons I am starting this blog is to introduce all different kinds of hip hop music to my readers. Some people are into what is called "gangsta" rap, while others prefer the more laid back kind of hip hop, such as De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. I am a firm believer that all Hip Hop, (minus most of the stuff that is played on the radio), has value and should not be discredited by close-minded people who may have a certain taste. Therefore, by making this blog I feel it's my duty to give exposure to everything that is creative, genuine, and meaningful. Enough rambling, this track here is off a remix collection released by The Pharcyde. The production here comes from the great J Dilla, so you know it's dope. This song is so soothing, the lyrics are words that everyone can relate to, and even the video is well-made. All the smokers out there should light up, lay back, and vibe out to this one. Peace.

Diabolic "Not Again" (ft. Vinnie Paz from Jedi Mind Tricks) Single

Putting this song up for those who are looking for some raw, underground hip hop from an independent artist. Not much is known about Diabolic, but he has managed to impress underground heads from collaborating and touring with Immortal Technique. He released a mix-tape called The Foul Play in 2007 and this joint is from his debut album called "Liar & a Thief," which is coming out in April. This track features Vinnie Paz from Jedi Mind Tracks, who I've been a fan of ever since I heard the classic "Violent by Design" album, which is a personal favorite of mine. If you are craving some hardcore rap with controversial lyrics, (this specifically reminds me of something you would hear on an Army of The Pharaohs album), check it out.

Album Review: Styles P & DJ Green Lantern- The Green Ghost Project

Styles P is one of those guys who never strays away from the style he has become famous for. Being one of the founding members of D-Block and The LOX, The Ghost is a veteran among rappers from NY who have survived off their gritty street lyricism. He collaborates on this project with DJ Green Lantern, a producer well known throughout the Hip Hop radio circuit. Although these two manage to have some chemistry, the album seems rushed and feels more like a mix-tape.

This album does showcase the talent Styles still has on the mic, but we know he can do better just by remembering A Gangster and A Gentleman (his most critically acclaimed work). On one hand we get some joints like "Time Will Tell (ft. Raekwon)," and "Real Ghostly," which both hit hard and transport the listener right onto the NYC ghetto streets. Then there are the tracks like "Born In These Streets," and "Nothing to Lose," which catch the Ghost in a state of reflection, telling us what it's really like for people living in poverty. However, there too many songs that seem redundant and leave you disappointed. Luckily, toward the end of the album we get to hear "Bang Time," a track recycled from MOP's last album and it's perfectly understandable why it was included.

Overall, this had the potential to be a lot better. Green Lantern's production is mediocre, the better songs feature different producers such as the legendary Buckwild. Styles P puts forth a solid effort, but it's honestly nothing we haven't already heard from him. This is worth one listen while riding around in the car, but not too much replay value with this project and Styles P is capable of more. Check below for the download link as well as the track "Time Will Tell."

Overall: 2.5/5

Download Styles P/DJ Green Lantern- The Green Ghost Project

Objectiv One on the MPC

Had to give props to Objectiv One for this routine. This guy is relatively unknown, but the way he flips this sample is crazy and he should be getting more and more exposure. The MPC has been used in Hip Hop music since it was created, and it's always interesting to see videos that show how effective of a tool it is for producers. Take a look at the video and see for yourself. Enjoy.

Invincible Interview

Over at The Lesson message boards on Okayplayer, I stumbled upon this interview with the female emcee named Invincible. When you think of the typical rapper, a white girl from Detroit does not immediately come to your mind, but man can this girl rhyme. As well as having skills on the mic, her active involvement in progressive social change has taken her music beyond entertainment, and towards actualizing the change she wishes to see. This is becomes clear when listening to her lyrics, and this is what hip hop is all about. Check out the interview as well as the music video for her track called "Sledgehammer," which demonstrates everything I've just said. Peace.

RR Cinema - INVINCIBLE from RR Cinema on Vimeo.

Biggie Smalls Tribute

This past Tuesday marked 13 years since the late Christopher Wallace passed away. The Notorious B.I.G was one of the greatest rappers of all time with his famous flow, dark and realistic lyrics, as well as his storytelling abilities. His time came way too soon, so I was not going to let March 9th roll by without posting a video honoring Biggie. After the tribute concert at SOB's, a bunch of artists that ranged from Immortal Technique to Pharoahe Monch paid homage and shared some memories they had of the Notorious. Thanks to The Source for this one.

Throwback Joint: Nas- I Gave You Power

Felt like posting this classic track from Nas, who in my opinion is the greatest rapper to ever touch a mic. No one was fucking with him back in the days when he was making tracks like this. Nowadays he's been busy dealing with his ex-wife Kelis, but that's a whole different story. Nevertheless, I'm still eagerly anticipating his project with Damien Marley. Anyway, "I Gave You Power" is a song from It Was Written in which Nas is talking from the perspective of a gun and he laces the track over the DJ Premier beat. It's always nice to go back and listen to Golden Era material, some Hip Hop artists seem to forget where the culture came from and these throwback joints are here to remind the readers. Peace.

Hard Knock TV Exclusive: Balance Bootleg Liquor feat. Fashawn, Mistah F.A.B , Thurzday (U-N-I)

Thought I'd give Hard Knock TV a little plug and promote this exclusive joint that gives the West Coast some exposure. Thurzday (from U-N-I check out that Love Supreme album), Mistah F.A.B, and my boy Fashawn are all on the cut and man each of them rip up this beat. Production is by Noah Ayala and its a head-nodder for sure, give it a listen.

Album Review: Oddisee- Traveling Man

Right off the bat, I'll say that I'm 99% sure I will not hear a better instrumental album in 2010. If you are not familiar with the work of Oddisee, let me introduce him quickly. This guy debuted on a track with DJ Jazzy Jeff and since then he's proven himself to be one of the most multi talented artists in indie Hip Hop. Not only can he produce, but he is also a beast on the microphone. And although he does not showcase his rhymes on this project, (check out that last Diamond District album if you're looking for that), the production on Travelling Man is out of this world and the concept behind it is genius.

While Oddisee was touring, he made a beat for every city that he was in and attempted to capture the vibe he was experience from each location. In my opinion, he did a fantastic job. New York City is embodied by the bustle and constant motion of it's people, while Paris sounds like the city of love with its breezy feel and female vocals. Tokyo seems exotic and Miami transports you right onto South Beach, making you feel like you've accomplished all your dreams. You can feel the Dr Dre-like funk from South Central and Stockholm gives you the chills. The claps and synths on Atlanta put you right with TI in the dirty south. However, despite all I've just described, the tracks made for Brixton and Boston are the one's I keep playing over and over. Of course I have a soft spot for Boston, but I'd die for a worthy emcee to jump on this Brixton beat and kill it cause it's begging for it. This leads me to my next point about this album. Almost every beat is made in a way that would not make it too difficult for someone to rap over it. Hopefully Oddisee has that in store for us eventually.

Once you listen to all 24 tracks, you feel like you've just traveled all over the world within 45 minutes. The concept behind the beats is creativity at it's finest, and at the same time Oddisee is able to maintain a certain cohesiveness that allow the songs to flow nicely. This man is something special and look for him to grow more and more as an artist, Oddisee is a talented artist and he shows it once again with this release. In terms of the rating system, keep in mind that 4.5's are very rare, especially for instrumental projects. Check out the Brixton beat below as well as the download link for the album. Peace.

Overall: 4.5/5


Download Oddisee- Traveling Man

Inspectah Deck Single "The Champion"

Inspectah Deck has always been most well-known Wu Tang member who never reached fame or platinum success from any solo album. Once again, Deck is about to release an album called "The Manifesto," without anybody knowing about it. I've always appreciated Deck's ability to set off Wu Tang tracks with raw lyrics and flow, there was a reason why he went first on "Triumph." Anyway, the single features dark production from The Alchemist, so you know what to expect. Deck got his influence for this song when watching a Floyd Mayweather boxing match, and you better believe he knocks this out. The full album has leaked and you guys will eventually get to read a review of it. Check out this track though and I've included another Deck joint from his most acclaimed solo effort, "The Movement," to show you all what he's capable of, even if it was 10 years ago.

Murs Talks 10 Albums in 2010!

This is great news coming from Murs, one of my favorite West coast underground emcees. Murs got signed to Warner Brothers, but because of creative difference they split up and Murs is back to being independent. The video below is Murs telling us about what's in store for 2010 because of his departure from the big-named label, and everyone should be excited for it. Check out the short interview and a dope track from Murs' album, "The End of the Beginning," released back in 2003. Go through this guy's stuff if you haven't already!

Rhymefest Interview and "Give It To Me" Music Video

Rhymefest is another one of those guys who flies under the radar. He is the writer of the famous Kanye track "Jesus Walks," and is known as one of the best freestyle rappers ever, even beating Eminem in a battle back in the day. The guy is incredibly down to earth and can rhyme with the best of them. He's got a new album coming out in May called "El Che," and in this interview he talks a bit about the creative process behind the project. Also give a listen to the single "Give It To Me," in which Che raps about revolution, giving us some important social commentary. Rhymefest had a contest on Youtube with the winner (Adad) getting a verse on the album version with Saigon. Make sure to cop the album when it hits stores.

Lupe Fiasco, Kenna, and Mark Shinoda Official Video for "Resurrection"

Thanks to okayplayer for this official video of "Resurrection," from the Download to Donate for Haiti project. This track is from a compilation album by Music For Relief, a non-profit organization established by Linkin Park in 2005 to help victims of natural disasters in the recovery process. The video is very well made and suits the vocals. Lupe does a great job in his verse, vividly describing the tragic aftermath from the Haiti earthquake. Check it out.

Lupe Fiasco - New Music - More Music Videos

Elzhi's "Deep" Official Music Video

Here's the new video for "Deep" a track from Elzhi off the The Leftovers Unmixedtape. Elzhi is one of those emcees I'll always respect, since his early days with Slum Village I've always been a fan. He is one of Detroit's best lyricists and comes through on this track with nice production from Black Milk, another guy who deserves props. If you don't know who Elzhi or Black Milk are, it is worth going through all their material. We know the music is good, but keep in mind that the video is equally dope. Check it out.

Putting Everyone Onto Jay Electronica

Once and awhile I'll be letting everyone know about certain artists who I feel are not getting enough recognition. The first one I'll start with is Jay Electronica, an emcee from New Orleans who I can say, without any hesitation, is more talented than Lil Wayne. And Jay has not even released an official album yet! People who closely follow underground hip hop know about this guy, but only recently is he getting any mainstream play. This is because of his two singles "Exhibit A" and "Exhibit C,"which feature production from Just Blaze. This guy has some serious lyrics and drops knowledge on almost every track he puts out. Rather than just blab on and on about how good he is with the pen, I'll show you some of his lyrics along with a few of my favorite Jay Electronica tracks. But make sure that whenever you see one of his track's pop up on the net, listen! He is one of the best lyrical emcees coming from the south who is trying to teach us some important lessons.

Exhibit A
They built my city on top of a grave/
Nigga die nigga get high and watch the parade/
Back then the early 90s
Where they at where they at get the gat get the gat was a popular phrase/
Bally animals and rugbys was a popular craze/
This the vivid memoirs of a obnoxious slave/
I pave ways like nat and harriet/
I blast on judas iscariot/
And peel off in a chariot/
I'm sittin pretty spittin flames grippin grain/
Aint a damn thing changed/

Exhibit C
They call me Jay Electronica/
Fuck that, call me Jay ElecHannukah/
Jay ElecYarmulke/
Jay ElecTramadaan Muhammad Asalaamica RasoulAllah Supana Watallah thought your monitor
My uzi still weigh a ton, check the barometer/
Im hotter than the mothafuckin sun, check the thermometer/
Im bringing ancient mathematics back to modern man/
My momma told me "never throw a stone and hide your hand"/
I got a lot of family, you got a lot of fans/
Thats why the people got my back like the Verizon man/

Blockhead-You've Got Maelstrom

Here is a random instrumental track I've been playing non-stop for about the past week. Blockhead is an American hip-hop producer most commonly known for his work with Aesop Rock and the Definitive Jux independent label. This song, from Blockhead's Music By Cavelight album from 2004, has captured me in a trance every time I play it. The first minute and thirty seconds amazes me from the voices sampled to the scratching. Blockhead comes up with so many different musical sounds and makes them mesh perfectly all on one track. Anyway, click on the video below to hear it and enjoy. Don't forget to support Blockhead's last project, The Music Scene, and I'll be sure to put more of his material on the site.

Album Review: Statik Selektah- 100 Proof (The Hangover)

Here we have another album that has all of it's production coming from one man, Statik Selektah. The Hangover is Selektah's third official album release, but has a lot more mixtape material and has been a follower of the DJ Premier-like east coast sound for some time. Because Statik is solely a producer, we have all kinds of guests contributing to this project, and the results are for the most part successful.

The Hangover starts off with the Bun B and Wale spitting about what kind of world we all dream of on "So Close, So Far." The beat has a certain essence in it which showcases the sincerity within the lyrics. The next joint is "Critically Acclaimed," with Lil Fame of MOP, Saigon, and Sean Price. Man, what a perfect combination of emcees for a track that is so raw and demands your respect. After a couple of forgettable songs, we get a string of joints that really display Statik's production skills. "Come Around," is one of those tracks that hooks you with the sample that resonates throughout, and all the emcees crush their verses, especially Royce Da 5'9 (that art of Orion line had me rewinding a couple times). "Drunken Nights" and "Life is Short" are two tracks that make you reflect and are appropriate considering the name of the album. Next comes the single "The Thrill is Gone," which has been on net for awhile but still has replay value. Styles P and Talib Kweli leave us to think about the current state of hip hop, and that message will always be relevant when executed correctly. "The Coast," involves Statik hooking up a couple West Coast emcees and the end product is nice. Fashawn is an up and comer who has incredible talent on the microphone and impresses me again with this appearance. Kali is another cat who does well on this track, as well as the closing song "Walking Away," which also includes a verse by Novel.

When it comes down to it, almost every emcee on the album does their job. Statik also provides us with some solid production and there's no doubt that he's one of those guys keeping the golden era East Coast sound alive. However, the project is nothing groundbreaking and doesn't flow as well as it could. Why? Simply, it's because there are so many rappers on the album it is unavoidable. But overall, this project has some great material and is a step in the right direction for Statik. Check below for the download link and the single "The Thrill is Gone."

Overall: 3.5/5

Download Statik Selektah's 100 Proof (The Hangover)

Album Review: Strong Arm Steady- In Search of Stoney Jackson

For our first album review on SportofShaolin, lets take a look at California-based group Strong Arm Steady and their sophomore album called "In Search of Stoney Jackson."This album was fully produced by Madlib, a veteran and beat-making heavyweight, one of the greatest producers in hip hop history. Over the past year, (see Fashawn/Exile album), there have been a number of single producer albums that have been greatly successful and resulted in well-crafted music. This is the definitely the case here. Madlib shines not just with, but over the Strong Arm Steady crew,his unique beats makes the listening experience a pleasurable one.

Right off the bat we hear Phonte, from Little Brother, give his opinion on the bleak economic times we are going through on "Best of Times," one of the highlight tracks from the LP. The next song "Cheeba Cheeba," is a marijuana anthem and Madlib uses the appropriate sampling, let me tell you my head was nodding to this beat the second I heard the 30-sec sample. Although the SAS crew, (made up of Krondon, Phil the Agony, and Mitchy Slick), do a fine job on the mic, the guest appearances take this album to a different level. Fellow West Coast emcee Planet Asia goes hard on a number of tracks, the song "New Love" caught my ear especially. In the middle of the album we reach "Get Started" one of the singles from the album. The track opens with a Talib Kweli verse, which of course does not disappoint. Everyone comes correct on this joint and how many times can I tell you how talented Madlib is? Once more apparently, because even though the second half of the LP can't match up with the first, his production overall is brilliant.

I've always been a big fan of Stones Throw Records, and this release is another noteworthy accomplishment. We are lucky to have a boatload of Madlib material coming this year, (Madvillian 2!!), so I'll be sure to let you guys know what else the Beat Konducta is cookin for us. Check below the rating for the download link and the "Get it Started" track.

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Download Strong Arm Steady-In Search of Stoney Jackson

Gorillaz-Stylo Video

When I first heard the single "Stylo" from the Gorillaz new album, Plastic Beach, I was a bit skeptical. Then again at the time I did have pneumonia and was lacking my Logitech speaker system. I have now come to my senses and this track has definitely grown on me. First of all, it is hard to go wrong when you have Mos Def laying down vocals. Also, the beat is hypnotic and has an 80's feel to it. Therefore, who better to be in the music video than Bruce Willis. Yes, Bruce Willis, this is no joke. I'll let you watch to see his role in the video, but the bottom line... it is dope. I still have some album reviews to catch up on for you guys, but make sure to listen to this new project by the Gorillaz and I'll be sure to write a review for Plastic Beach sooner than later. Enjoy the video.

Black Thought Tony Touch Freestyle

The Roots are one of those groups who have made their mark on hip hop and Black Thought to me is one of the most under-appreciated emcees of all time. When people talk about their Top 5 rappers dead or alive, he should always be in the discussion. The Roots new release, How I Got Over, should be coming out in June and I am excited to see what they bring to the table after Rising Down, which I loved, especially the title track featuring Mos Def and Styles P. Anyway, here is a genuine freestyle in which Black Thought absolutely destroys. Seriously, I haven't heard something like this in awhile, even Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest couldn't spit after Black Thought's performance. All freestyle rappers...take notes.

Laws-Shining (prod. 9th wonder)

Stumbled upon 9th wonder talking about the making of this Shining beat over at 2dopeboyz and man that shit is the definition of soothing. I don't know too much about Laws, an artist supported by the J.U.S.T.I.C.E League. His album dropped about a month ago, so I'll have to check it out, but his style reminds me of this new school movement, rhyming and flow with mainstream appeal that is full of punchlines. Even though I usually hate on that type of music, Laws makes it work on this track and I could listen to this 9th beat over and over. Check the videos below to hear the track along with 9th wonder's thoughts.

9th Wonder Speaks on Shining from Decatur Dan on Vimeo.

J Dilla Documentary

There a select number of producers who I make sure to check for whenever any of their material hits the internet. One of those would be the late J Dilla, one of my favorite producers ever. It is hard to argue that any other hip hop producer has ever reached Dilla's level when it comes to having an ear for certain sounds and as well as simple raw beat-making ability. The soul that comes out of Dilla beats is unworldly and it is always nice to stumble upon videos that honor his legacy. This three part documentary does a great job providing detail on Dilla's life and has appearances from the likes of Peanut Butter Wolf as well as DJ Houseshoes, both of whom were extremely close to Dilla. Enjoy!

Stussy - J Dilla Documentary Prt 1 (of 3) from Stussy on Vimeo.

Stussy - J Dilla Documentary Prt 2 (of 3) from Stussy on Vimeo.

Stussy - J Dilla Documentary Prt3 (of 3) from Stussy on Vimeo.

Gangstarr's Guru in Serious Condition

There have been multiple reports that Guru, a legend in the rap game and 1/2 of the classic duo Gangstarr with DJ Premier, has suffered a heart attack and is now presently in a coma. There has been a great deal of controversy regarding the state of Guru and that his family is being prevented from seeing him, as well as being kept in the dark about Guru's treatment. The person who appears to be guilty of these travesties is Solar, Guru's recent production partner and the man who is basically in control of his career. The hip hop world isn't too happy about the Youtube video that Guru's nephew put on-line which made these serious accusations against Solar. We all wish Guru a quick recovery and future health. But it is imperative that if Solar is really acting in this selfish manner, he must be exposed and no longer have impact on the health of Guru as well as be a cause of stress to Guru's family. Below is the Youtube video made by Guru's nephew as well as reaction from famous producer and friend of Guru's, Statik Selektah.

Wu-Massacre single "Our Dreams"

Thought that for the first post promoting new singles, I'd stick with the title of the blog and go straight to Shaolin! Wu Tang members Raekwon, Method Man, and Ghostface Killah decided to release a studio album, called Wu-Massacre, under the Def Jam label and keep the Wu Tang dynasty going. It has been confirmed that other Wu Tang members will have appearances on the album, and RZA graced his brothers with this soulful beat used for the single titled "Our Dreams." As long Wu has existed, they have been able to excel both in street lyricism as well as being able to depict ghetto romance. Our Dreams is exactly that and has been on repeat in my headphones all day. Thanks to RefinedHype for the link below which has the download or if you want to just listen to the internet stream.

http://www.refinedhype.com/hyped/entry/method-man-ghostface-raekwon-our-dreams/

Fairfield vs. Siena MAAC Basketball Championship

As a 20 year old sophomore at Fairfield University with a great interest in sports, I feel it's only appropriate that I discuss one of the biggest basketball games in recent memory for the Stags. Tonight Fairfield takes on the Siena Saints in the MAAC Championship game, which will be televised on ESPN2. Over the weekend I have been sick with mono, so I have had plenty of time to watch Fairfield's past 2 games on ESPN360.com and let me tell you, do not count them out against this Siena powerhouse. The way they faught against both Canisius and Niagara was impressive, especially the play of freshman Derek Needham and senior Anthony Johnson. The passion is there and the Stags almost beat Siena on the same court in the regular season. Ed Cooley, head coach of the Stags, will not let his team be intimidated by the Saints, who are looking for the third straight MAAC championship. Since I have been at Fairfield I have been a work study for the Sports Information Department and have wrote in the sports section for the campus newspaper, The Mirror. So let me give you some inside access/opinion on the keys for a Stag victory.

1. Keep hitting those 3's
-The Stags need to shoot lights out tonight in order to get a victory. Evanovich and Needham need to knock down any open shots they get because Johnson will not be able to push around his opponents like he has the past 2 games.

2. Johnson needs to stay out of foul trouble
This was a minor concern in yesterday's game against Niagara, but it will be crucial for tonite. There is no way Fairfield will win if Johnson picks up 3 early fouls, Siena has too much depth and will take advantage down low without "Peanut's " presence.

3. Big games from others besides Needham/Johnson
The freshman standout will need to be his usual self, he can't act like he's a freshman in the biggest game of his young career. Johnson will show up because he doesn't want this to be his last game ever, he will be a force to be reckoned with tonight. The key is that Nickerson continues his defensive prowness, Crawford has to move around the ball and show what he is capable of as he did against Niagara in the last regular season game. Evanovich needs to hit his open shots, Olander needs to be another confident big man in the post and continue to play the way he has in the tournament. The bottom line: everyone needs to play their best tonight in order to accomplish their dream of winning the MAAC and getting a bid into the NCCAA tournament.

This is an exciting day for all Fairfield University students and if I didn't have mono and lived closer to Albany, I would be there to cheer the Stags on. Regardless if they win tonight, this team can hold their heads up high and know they played with guts this season and have a bright future ahead of them. Go Stags!

Blog Introduction/Recap of the Best Hip Hop of 2009

Hey everybody and welcome to the Sport of Shaolin blog. It has been long overdue in getting this started and you'll see the blog being upgraded in it's early stages. Before we get going on the day by day operations, I think it's important to recap the best hip hop of 2009. So today I'll be ranking the best hip hop albums of 2009 in my personal opinion. This blog will not completely ignore mainstream rap, but the focus will be on the under-appreciated yet so much more meaningful hip-hop that showcases lyrical talent and production that fits it all together. Over time, the blog will consist of album reviews, news, singles, videos, and random food for thought. I will also be discussing the happenings in the sports world as well as anything else that proves to be important. With no further adieu, here is the list.

1. Raekwon- Only Built For Cuban Linx

As you can maybe tell by the name of the blog, Wu Tang has had a heavy influence on my musical taste and there is no way I could put any other album at the number one spot. Expectations were high for this long anticipated album by the Wu Tang drug slang lyricist Raekwon after two mediocre albums. This sequel to the classic Only Built for Cuban Linx album, which could be considered as one of the best hip hop albums ever, came as close as possible to meeting it's successor's grittiness and street feel. The Chef made sure he got the proper ingredients, receiving outstanding production from legends such as RZA, J Dilla, Pete Rock, Alchemist, and Dr Dre. In the end, everyone came through in flying colors on this album and it deserves top notch praise.

Standout Track:

2. Mos Def- The Ecstatic

It is no surprise that Mos Def is an experimental artist, as was demonstrated in his last couple albums following up the classic Black on Both Sides masterpiece. But this time around, he executed his progressive style to near-perfection. When you listen to this album from the first to last track, the vibe that exists is something no other artist could accomplish. There are only two guest appearances, Slick Rick and Talib Kweli, and they each contribute greatly on my personal two favorite tracks on the album. And with production from the likes of Madlib and J Dilla, this project was destined for greatness and if all was right in the world, it should be the favorite for album of the year at the Grammy's.

Standout Track:

3. Tanya Morgan- Brooklynati

Now you may be asking who Tanya Morgan is, but it is actually not a person. This is a group consisting of underground emcees named Donwill, Illyas, and MC/producer Von Pea. And with this album that is based on the creation of a fictional city combining elements from Cincinnati and Brooklyn, it is their best work yet. The concept is incredible and it has an amazing effect on the listener. The lyrics are amazing and from top to bottom the album takes you on a journey like no other, which is why it is so high my list. Do yourself a favor and dedicate some time to vibe out to this, you will not be disappointed if you understand what music really is.

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4. KRS One and Buckshot- Survival Skills

This collaborative effort by hip hop spokesperson KRS One and Buckshot in my opinion did not get enough praise that it deserves. The album pretty much goes through what is wrong with the rap industry and that the most important things are talent and dedication to the craft. You can hear how much passion was put into the project, this is a subject that KRS One has dedicated his life to and it shows through the music. They tried to reach the mainstream through the single "Robot" but same message exists throughout the whole album. With production from Havoc, Illmind, Marco Polo, Black Milk and 9th Wonder, there is a constant sound which every emcee rises up to. The amount of guest appearances range from Talib Kweli to Immortal Technique, and all of them come together to voice their concerns and bring back the raw east coast hip hop sound.

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5. Marco Polo and Torae- Double Barrel

This is similar to the Survival Skills album in its message, and although Torae can't match up lyrically with KRS One and Buckshot, he does a good job over the outstanding production of Marco Polo. This is one of the best producers in the game that some of you still may not know about. Albums that feature only one producer tend to have a cohesive sound and it shows chemistry between everyone involved. This one is simply a head-nodder that will make you want to go out and fuck someone up. With guests that include Lil Fame, Sean Price, and Masta Ace, the album does its job and Marco Polo proves he is in the upper-echelon of producers in the game.

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6. Cunninlynguists- Strange Journey Volume 1 and 2

Although technically these are two separate albums, I decided to group them together because the same concept lies in both. When I heard Strange Journey Volume 1 in March, I was left in awe. These albums are supposed to take you on a crazy journey in a van on tour with Deacon, Natti, and producer Kno. Honestly, their was not track I did not enjoy because the production takes the listener down South and you feel like you are witnessing these outrageous yet funny stories. I have always loved Cunninlynguists, and Kno just outdoes himself on this project. And although Volume 2 has a little different sound, it is still dope and both volumes combined take you on some type of ride that is easier to experience than explain, take a listen for yourself.

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7. Fashawn- Boy Meets World

This is the debut LP from Fresno emcee Fashawn, and he proves to be Illmatic-like in the fact he shines as if he has been around forever. The album is produced entirely by Exile, famous for his work with Blu, who is featured on the album. But the focus is on Fashawn here and he is a rapper to look out for in the future. His story is a special one and he paints a picture through his words when describing the way he has grown up. This kid is only 20 years old and sooner or later America is going to know his name if he gets the proper marketing. Exile does wonders for Fashawn in terms of the production for the west-coast version of a young Nas. Fashawn's struggle is shown through his lyrics and no one at this point can deny his talent.

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8. Souls of Mischief- Montezuma's Revenge

After almost 10 years since an album release, the Oakland hip hop group Souls of Mischief comes through in this release. Ever since I heard Tour Stories awhile back, I kept my eye out on this and for a good reason. Although its been awhile since the 93' Till Infinity days, the dope lyrics are still there. And this time around we have production from prominent producer Prince Paul. Overall, the musical vibes behind this record provide a great listening experience from a group that knows how to flow over the beats Prince Paul graces us with.

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9. Diamond District-In the Ruff

This is another release that the common rap fan probably did not hear. The group from Washington D.C. represent on this record as they bring back the East Coast gritty sound. Oddisee is the main producer behind the album and his work his remarkable. His sampling and sequencing is superb; Oddisee is another guy to look out for not just for his production, his skills on the mic are sick. Overall, this is another project that flew under the mainstream radar that deserves to be in the top 10.

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10. Finale- A Pipe Dream and a Promise

This project from Finale shows how much underground talent is coming out of Detroit. A Pipe Dream and A Promise is his debut which shows Finale's passion and fire in the booth. In the album, Finale makes it known who he is, where he is from, and what he is going to do. The production allows him to do this in the correct way, Finale is so raw yet intelligent in his rhymes over beats that include the work of J Dilla. Finale coming out of Detroit has a hard act to follow considering all the talent that has recently come from the area, but he lives up to the challenge in his first project.

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Honorable Mentions:

Slaughterhouse-Slaughterhouse

Skyzoo- The Salvation

Wu Tang Clan- Chamber Music

Brother Ali- Us

Cormerga- Born and Raised