Midwest Broadcast

MaLLy: "Future's Classic ft. Tigre"

2012-01-31T11:21:00.001-06:00

Prefix just premiered a new song by MaLLy featuring Tigre of 925ve. The track was produced by Rem', who MaLLy's been working with since his projects like The Passion. By now we should all know what to expect from a new MaLLy track: hard-hitting verses and a supremely confident delivery. "Future's Classic" has got that in spades. Stream/download it below.

MaLLy: "Future's Classic ft. Tigre"

M.anifest: "Makaa Maka" (Music Video)

2012-01-31T10:46:00.001-06:00

Excellent new music video from M.anifest. "Makaa Maka" was produced by Kwabena Jones and the video was directed by Isaac Offei Awuah. "Makaa Maka" translates from Twi as "If I said it I said it" or "I say it without apology."

Mike the Martyr: Lake Street Bar, Pt. 2 (EP)

2012-01-31T10:35:00.004-06:00

Mike the Martyr had a busy year in 2011, producing for the likes of Slug, A.G., Termanology, and more. With the new year upon us, he's showing now signs of slowing down. Lake Street Bar, Pt. 2 is the follow up to last year's instrumental EP. Hit the jump to download the project.

Mike the Martyr: Lake Street Bar, Pt. 2 (EP)

Trama: "One Day At A Time" (Music Video)

2012-01-31T10:22:00.001-06:00

This song will be on Trama's TramDilla mixtape, due on March 1. Stream and download the song below.

Trama: "One Day At A Time"

Villa Rosa: "Chico ft. I Self Devine" (Music Video)

2012-01-26T13:01:00.002-06:00

New visuals from Villa Rosa, "Chico" features a guest spot from I Self Devine. The video was directed by Greg Grease. Blue Diamond Island is available now.

Metasota: H.I.P. (Happy I'm Present: 2 Week Theory)

2012-01-26T09:46:00.003-06:00

Metasota is currently prepping his upcoming album, There's Something About Larry. In the meantime, check out the 9-track project H.I.P. (Happy I'm Present: 2 Week Theory). Most songs were mixed by Mod Sun, while Cory Grindberg and Mike Frey, among others, get production credits. Stream it after the jump.

Metasota: H.I.P. (Happy I'm Present: 2 Week Theory)

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://happyimpresent.bandcamp.com/album/h-i-p-happy-im-present-2-week-theory"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;H.I.P. (Happy I'm Present: 2 Week Theory) by Metasota&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

F. Stokes: "My Simple" (Music Video)

2012-01-26T09:34:00.003-06:00

F. Stokes is releasing a new EP titled Love, Always on March 6. Above is the music video for "My Simple", the lead single off the EP, which you can download fro iTunes below. Also, F. Stokes will be performing at the FineLine in downtown Minneapolis on February 1.

F. Stokes: "My Simple"

I Self Devine Announces the Culture Series Part II: The Upliftment Struggle

2012-01-26T09:30:00.000-06:00

I wasn't able to attend I Self Devine's recent concert at the 7th St Entry for his first Culture Series release of LA State of Mind. Thankfully, these shows are a monthly occasion. The second installment of the series was recently announced. On the first Thursday of next month, he'll release The Upliftment Struggle. Then, on February 19, he'll perform the mixtape at the Entry with special guests I.B.E., Ill Chemistry (Desdamona and Carnage), and Maria Isa.

Dre Day 2012 Announced

2012-01-26T09:24:00.002-06:00

Last year's Dre Day with Heiruspecs headlining was a party for the ages. This one should be just as good. Some of the Get Cryphy crew will be spinning to start things off. Felix of Heiruspecs is hosting the event, and this year's headliner is The LBC Drama Club (featuring members of Heiruspecs). Not sure what that means, but it sounds like fun.

Buy tickets to Dre Day 2012 here.

Doomtree: "Bangarang" (Music Video)

2012-01-19T13:23:00.000-06:00

Har Mar Superstar gets the lead role in the new Doomtree video, and shirtlessness ensues. No Kings is in stores right now. Bangarang.

Chantz Erolin & Alan De Leon Taverna: "January 9th Freestyle" (Prod. Julian Fairbanks)

2012-01-19T13:15:00.005-06:00

Chantz Erolin (of Art School Girls) and Alan De Leon Taverna recorded some genuine freestyles while home from college during their winter break. The beat is from Julian Fairbanks of Audio Perm.

Chantz Erolin & Alan De Leon Taverna: "January 9th Freestyle" (Prod. Julian Fairbanks)

Anchormen: "The Essence ft. Big Zach" (Music Video)

2012-01-19T13:09:00.000-06:00

The Anchormen, composed of Big Wiz, Aquafresh & T La Shawn, released a song with Big Zach of Kanser/More Than Lights. Mike the Martyr handled production on this joint.

Longshot: "Real Thing ft. Psalm One" (Prod. Jake One)

2012-01-19T13:05:00.003-06:00

If you remember 2-3 years back when Jake One's White Van Music was coming out on Rhymesayers, the label held a contest where rappers submitted songs on the WVM instrumentals with the winner being awarded a original beat from Jake One. Longshot of Chicago (now a Minneapolis resident) won the contest, and finally one of the songs he made with Jake got a release. Props to Be Scene Mpls.

Lazerbeak: Lava Bangers Promo Video

2012-01-11T20:32:00.000-06:00

Lazerbeak's Lava Bangers is due on January 24. Preorder it before it's too late.

Atmosphere: "Became" (Music Video Trailer)

2012-01-10T12:45:00.002-06:00

Atmosphere and Rhymesayers will be releasing the music video for "Became," from their 2011 album The Family Sign, in collaboration with the Minnesota School and Business and the Minnesota Transitions High School’s Digital Media Academy. In an effort to support creative arts and local education, Rhymesayers reached out to the two schools and gave them the opportunity to produce this music video. The video above is a trailer for the music video's official release. The full music video for "Became" and a documentary about the creative process will screen at Fifth Element on January 19.

Visit the Rhymesayers website to learn more about the event.
RSVP to the screening at Fifth Element on Facebook.

Lazerbeak: "Smash Hit"

2012-01-10T12:33:00.000-06:00

Here's another sample of what's to come from Lazerbeak's upcoming Lava Bangers instrumental album, which can be preordered right now. "Smash Hit" (premiered by Absolute Punk) is the second single from the album, after "Cement Blocks/Knife Fighter." Stream it below.

Brother Ali: "Sweet (Potato Pie)"

2012-01-10T11:15:00.004-06:00

Brother Ali dropped some food raps over the "Sweet" instrumental this morning. As he says, "It's well known that I'm top 5 dead or alive in the kitchen. Squash the beef and get you a piece." Ali also took to Twitter this morning to discuss several relevant topics such as the Drake/Common feud and the concept of a "freestyle." It's all excellent insight. Download the song below, or hit the jump to stream it.

Brother Ali: "Sweet (Potato Pie)"

Prof: "Gampo" (Music Video)

2012-01-10T11:02:00.000-06:00

Back in November Prof released the music video to "Need Your Love." It's a ridiculous piece of satire so bizarre it's brilliant. This morning he delivered yet another absurd and farcical music video for "Gampo," off his free album King Gampo. I'm having trouble finding ways to describe it in writing, so please just watch it yourself.

925ve: "One, Two, Three"

2012-01-10T10:45:00.001-06:00

For those of you unfamiliar with 925ve, they are a 5-person group hailing from Minneapolis. Composed of Prizm, Iggz, Tigre Cole, & Brando, they keep their production in-house and all bring different elements to the table lyrically. "One, Two, Three" was produced by Tigre Cole, and features Tigre and Prizm trading aggressive bars over the straightforward boom bap. It will be on their upcoming full-length album.

925ve: "One, Two, Three"
&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://925ve.bandcamp.com/track/one-two-three"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;One, Two, Three by 925ve&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Mike Dreams: "We The Ones" (Prod. Gmo)

2012-01-10T10:38:00.000-06:00

Here is Mike Dreams' lead single to his third studio album. The album is called Millennial, and should be due in the springtime or early summer. Gmo produced this one, so you know it's a knocker.

Mike Dreams: "We The Ones" (Prod. Gmo)

I Self Devine: "Sweat Equity" (Music Video)

2012-01-09T13:23:00.002-06:00

Here is the first music video from I Self Devine's excellent LA State of Mind mixtape. Continue reading the post after the jump and you'll find another video in his Culture Series in which I Self speaks about the mixtape and how growing up in Los Angeles influenced him.

Franz Diego: "Waggin On The Scene"

2012-01-09T13:11:00.001-06:00

Franz Diego just released the music video for his new song "Waggin On The Scene," produced by J-Hard. I've got a feeling this is going to quickly become a Twin Cities house party anthem. The boisterous track will be featured on their Sense of Self album that will be available for free download on February 7 at the Illuminous 3 website. The song itself is available for download below, as is a DJ/Remix kit with a radio edit and acapella version for the producers out there.

Franz Diego: "Waggin On The Scene"
Franz Diego: "Waggin On The Scene" (DJ/Remix Kit)

Paper Tiger: 20 Minute Mix of Lazerbeak's Lava Bangers

2012-01-09T13:02:00.002-06:00

Paper Tiger recently released another one of his consistently excellent 20 Minute Mixes. The theme for this one stays in the crew, as it's a continuous, career-spanning mix of fellow Doomtree producer Lazerbeak's patented Lava Bangers. Hit the link to stream the mix, or right click + 'Save As' to download it. And remember that you can preorder Lazerbeak's upcoming instrumental album right now at Doomtree's website.

Paper Tiger: 20 Minute Mix - Lazerbeak

I.B.E.: Watch This Too (Mixtape)

2012-01-09T12:55:00.002-06:00

I.B.E.'s Watch This Too mixtape features him going in over several of the instrumentals from Watch the Throne. This tape serves as more of an anti-WTT, though. You won't catch I.B.E. name dropping Hublot, Rothko, Picasso, Warhol, etc. If you were fed up from Jay and Ye's references to being in the upper 1% of the 1%, then Watch this Too might be more up your alley. Continue reading after the page break to stream the project.

I.B.E.: Watch This Too (Mixtape)

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://ibemusic.bandcamp.com/album/watch-this-too-wtt"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Watch This Too (WTT) by I.B.E&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

The Tribe & Big Cats!: Daytrotter Session

2012-01-09T12:44:00.004-06:00

Last year, the Tribe & Big Cats! stopped into the Daytrotter studio for a quick session and played some material from Make Good and Forward Thinkers, Movers, Shakers. Props to Egypto for putting me on to this. Hit the link below to check it out.

The Tribe & Big Cats!: Daytrotter Session

I Self Devine: LA State of Mind (Mixtape)

2012-01-05T17:48:00.001-06:00

As promised, today I Self Devine released the first mixtape in his Culture Series. I'm still on my first listen, but LA State of Mind sounds like what one would expect it to be: tales of oppressed and overlooked cultures, communities and individuals in urban America, mixed with personal stories and commentary from I Self Devine. Considering this is I Self's strong suit, and something he does better than most rappers, I have no complaints whatsoever. Stream or download the mixtape below.

I Self Devine: LA State of Mind (Mixtape)

I Self Devine Announces 'The Sounds of Low Class America' and Mixtape Series

2012-01-04T20:16:00.001-06:00

Rhymesayers is kicking off 2012 with their second big announcement in as many days. I Self Devine is preparing to release of his sophomore solo LP, The Sounds of Low Class America, on May 8. The album has been done for years now, but I Self has been focused on his other passion, being a community organizer in South Minneapolis. Nearly every dedicated rapper or fan I know in the Twin Cities credits I Self as one of their favorite artists. Both Self Destruction and The Anti Album (as Semi.Official) are notorious local favorites. It's sensational to see I Self returning to music with such a blazing focus in 2012.

To precede the album's release, however, is a four-part mixtape release, entitled The Culture Series. On the first Thursday of each month January through April, I Self will release a free, 10-song mixtape. He will also be performing each mixtape in its entirety at the 7th Street Entry with special guests from the local scene. The first mixtape, LA State of Mind, will be released tomorrow.

I.B.E.: "Oh Ma Da" (Music Video)

2012-01-04T20:09:00.001-06:00

Minneapolis' own Intelligent Black Enterprise has been releasing videos for his "Pages from That Tape" series. "Oh Ma Da" is the second to last video in the collection, and is influenced on I.B.E's upbringing in a Nigerian household.

T.Q.D.: "Insomnia" + "Taketh Away"

2012-01-04T18:45:00.000-06:00

T.Q.D. (The Quiet Dude) of Background Noise Crew is returning with his first full-length album since 2009. Taketh Away, the third album of his career, will be released on January 27. Check out the first two singles from the album below, and preorder it via his Bandcamp site.

The release party for this album will also be on January 27, at Hell's Kitchen in Minneapolis.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://tqdmusic.bandcamp.com/album/insomnia-prod-by-vividend"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Insomnia (Prod. by Vividend) by T.Q.D&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://tqdmusic.bandcamp.com/album/belonging-prod-by-vividend"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Belonging (Prod. by Vividend) by T.Q.D&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Cory Grindberg: CRACK (Free Instrumental Album)

2012-01-04T18:31:00.001-06:00

CRACK is a free instrumental album produced by Cory Grindberg of Audio Perm. It's 28 tracks long, and surely addicting. Cory Grindberg and the rest of his Audio Perm crew are the dopeness. Speaking of which, check out their recent profile in the Twin Cities AV Club, a step-by-step guide to being dope, while you're listening to CRACK.

Cory Grindberg: CRACK

Brother Ali: "Writer's Block" (Prod. Jake One)

2012-01-04T00:31:00.000-06:00

Several months ago I watched an interview with Brother Ali when he announced he and Jake One would be working on an album together. I saw him debut some of that material at Soundset 2011, and recite some new verses at the 7th Street entry last month. Now Ali and Rhymesayers have decided to start off 2012 by releasing something from their studio sessions. "Writer's Block" will not be on the upcoming Mourning in America and Dreaming in Color, but it is enough to get me supremely excited for the album (as I always am for new Ali releases).

The track is a take on the often attempted but seldom expertly executed rap song about the creative process. Ali uses the first verse to discuss the quality control in his music from artistic and financial perspectives, while the second verse tackles the anxiety induced when the words aren't coming. All of this comes with a refreshingly nonjudgmental tone; Ali isn't criticizing anyone, just describing his methods.

And as good as this song is, everything else I've heard from the album has been greater.

Brother Ali: "Writer's Block" (Prod. Jake One)

Lazerbeak: "Cement Blocks/Knight Fighter"

2012-01-03T23:35:00.000-06:00

Lazerbeak had one hell of a year in 2010, producing the entirety of Sims' Bad Time Zoo (my favorite album of the year, local or national) and much of No Kings. Now, he's coming back with an instrumental collection of his patented Lava Bangers in an album aptly titled after his funked-out boom bap productions. Lava Bangers the album started as a collection of 150 different instrumentals, eventually whittled down to 20 tracks that were seamlessly mixed together by none other than Plain Ole Bill. It sounds like the resulting product will be equally ready for the headphones, the car, and the dance floor.

Stream/download "Cement Blocks" and "Knight Fighter" below to get a feel for what the album will be like. You can preorder Lava Bangers immediately. Also, for you emcees out there, get your bars up and enter the rap contest; you can find out more about this on today's Tuesdays with Lazerbeak post.

Lazerbeak: "Cement Blocks/Knight Fighter"

Guante & Big Cats!: "Winter is Coming"

2012-01-03T23:16:00.000-06:00

"Winter is Coming" is the first new song released from Guante & Big Cats! in over a year. The freebie serves as the announcement for their new and fantastically titled album, You Better Weaponize, coming sometime during the third quester of 2012.

Guante & Big Cats!: "Winter is Coming"

Sean Anonymous: "Fast Forward" (Music Video)

2012-01-03T23:06:00.000-06:00

Sean Anonymous of Wide Eyes will soon be releasing Anonymo, an EP of new material. "Fast Forward," the lead single, was produced by DJ Corbett, while the video was directed by Dave Wilson.

Soulcrate Music: "Click, Click, Follow, Follow" (Music Video)

2012-01-03T23:00:00.000-06:00

Soulcrate caught a case of future shock, releasing a song and video sardonically mocking those who allow social networking to consume their daily lives. Now go follow them on Twitter and 'like' their Facebook page!

Atmosphere: "Somebody, MN ft. Kill the Vultures, Big Quarters & MaLLy"

2011-12-16T17:07:00.003-06:00

Atmosphere, Kill the Vultures, Big Quarters, and MaLLy are embarking on the six-show Welcome to MN tour. It's the same cities as last year, with added dates in Minneapolis and Duluth. Fantastic lineup and should be a great time. I've got my tickets for the First Ave show, and I hear they're going fast, so grab them ASAP if you haven't yet.

Similar to last year's "Minnesota Nice," all the acts on this mini-tour made a song together. Stream/download it below.

Atmosphere: "Somebody, MN ft. Kill the Vultures, Big Quarters & MaLLy"

Dates for the 2012 Welcome To Minnesota Tour:
2.20- Mankato, MN @ Verizon Wireless Center Ballroom

2.21- Bemidji, MN @ Sanford Center Ballroom

2.22- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue

2.23- Duluth, MN @ Clyde Iron Works

2.25- Rochester, MN @ Mayo Civic Center Auditorium

2.26 -St. Cloud, MN @ SCSU Atwood Center Ballroom

More Than Lights: "Deja Voodoo" (Music Video)

2011-12-16T16:58:00.003-06:00

MaLLy: "Stomp Through ft. Tigre" (Prod. Last Word)

2011-12-16T16:54:00.000-06:00

New heat from MaLLy, featuring Tigre of 925ve and produced by Last Word.

MaLLy: "Stomp Through ft. Tigre" (Prod. Last Word)

MaLLy: "Cloud Culture" (Music Video)

2011-12-16T16:52:00.002-06:00

The Tribe & Big Cats!: Make Good EP

2011-12-13T12:51:00.003-06:00

I've said it before and I'll probably say it again: Make Good marks the best music the Tribe & Big Cats! have put out as a group yet. It also ranks among my favorite local releases of 2011. Stream it below, buy it for $5 at their Bandcamp site.

The Tribe & Big Cats!: Make Good EP

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thetribeandbigcats.bandcamp.com/album/make-good"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Make Good by The Tribe &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; Big Cats!&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Big Quarters: "Unreal" (MPLS.tv City of Music)

2011-12-13T12:48:00.000-06:00

MPLS.tv filmed Big Quarters performing "Unreal" off of Party Like A Young Commie for their City of Music series. Additional props to Be Scene Mpls.

Common: "Raw (How You Like It)"

2011-12-13T12:42:00.002-06:00

Common's The Dreamer, The Believer comes out on December 20. It's always easy to overlook these late-year releases when you're caught in the hoopla of the holidays and "Best Of" lists, but from what I've heard this album should be a good one.

B. Dolan: "Film The Police ft. Toki Wright, Jasiri X, Buddy Peace & Sage Francis (Music Video)

2011-12-13T12:28:00.001-06:00

B. Dolan's new song "Film The Police" is a reworking of NWA's 1988 classic "Fuck the Police." You could say the song is a response from the current digital generation to the national outbreaks out police brutality in recent years. As abounding technological advances allow a vast proportion of the populace to become amateur videographers and photographers, B. Dolan, Toki Wright, Sage Francis, and Jasiri X call for today's activists to film the police and document their wrongdoings and injustices.

B. Dolan: "Film The Police ft. Toki Wright, Jasiri X, Buddy Peace & Sage Francis"
Film The Police by Strange Famous Records

U of SAV: Real Cool World (Free Album)

2011-12-13T12:07:00.002-06:00

U of SAV is a duo composed of local rapper/producer Oppi and his parter Vinnie who currently resides in Milwaukee. Today they release their debut project, Real Cool World. If you're sick of the pretentiousness that populates much of the current rap landscape, you may very well enjoy this release. It's also possibly the most piano-heavy album I've heard in a long time. Lipset makes a guest appearance. Stream it below or hit the U of SAV Bandcamp site to download.

U of SAV: Real Cool World

&amp;lt;a href="http://uofsav.bandcamp.com/album/real-cool-world"&amp;gt;Real Cool World by U of SAV&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

Big Quarters: "Perfect Match ft. Mankwe Ndosi" (Music Video)

2011-12-13T11:57:00.002-06:00

I was a big fan of Brown Babies/White Mothers when it came out, but I believe Party Like A Young Commie is BQ's best work to date. Go get that if you don't have it yet. Like, stop what you're doing and go get it right now.

Here, I'll help you out: Fifth Element // iTunes // Amazon

Danny Brown: "Blunt After Blunt" + "Monopoly" (Music Videos)

2011-12-13T11:42:00.000-06:00

Danny Brown's excellent XXX — an allusion to his age, 30, as much as his explicit lyrics — is out now. Here are two recent music videos from that album.

Doomtree: "Bolt Cutter" (Music Video)

2011-12-13T11:28:00.002-06:00

You've probably seen this already, but it deserves a post regardless of how late I am. Fresh off dominating First Ave/7th St Entry for an entire week, Doomtree are crushing the local scene right now. Here's the music video for "Bolt Cutter" their No Kings ode to breaking, entering, and conquering.

Zero Star: "Gmail" (Music Video)

2011-12-13T11:24:00.001-06:00

From Zero Star's upcoming album Maybe I'm Joking, Maybe I'm Not.

I.B.E: "6AM ft. Alicia Steele"

2011-12-13T11:21:00.002-06:00

Here's the latest offering from I.B.E's Pages from That Tape series.

O-D: Free Myself (Free Album)

2011-12-13T11:12:00.002-06:00

O-D is a producer in the 4Shades crew. Even if you don't know him by name, you've likely heard his work if you follow the Twin Cities scene; he's produced for M.anifest, Krukid, Toki Wright, Tribe & Big Cats! and more. Check out his album Free Myself.

O-D: Free Myself

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://o-dmusic.bandcamp.com/album/free-myself"&amp;amp;gt;Free Myself by O-D&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Doomtree: "Beacon"

2011-11-10T19:48:00.001-06:00

New Doomtree. No Kings. 11/22/11.

In related Doomtree news, City Pages has been announcing the opening acts for the 7th Street Entry shows during Doomtree Blowout Week. Sims is on Sunday with a killer lineup. Mike Mictlan and every indie rap artist in the Twin Cities will surely make for an epic Monday, Dessa mixes it up on Tuesday with some standup comedy. P.O.S. curated a great Wednesday lineup with Polica and Marijuana Deathsquads. Cecil Otter, whose show has yet to be announced, finishes the solo shows on Thrusday.

Doomtree: "Beacon"

P.O.S., Lazerbeak, & Cecil Otter Discuss the Beat-Making Process for 'No Kings' (Video)

2011-11-08T16:32:00.002-06:00

Big Quarters: "Perfect Match ft. Mankwe Ndosi"

2011-11-08T11:29:00.001-06:00

Next new single from Big Quarters' Party Like A Young Commie, due on November 29. Preorder it at BigQuarters.com.

One Be Lo: LABOR (Language Arts Based On Reality)

2011-11-08T11:26:00.002-06:00

Yesterday Sims announced the lineup for the show he curated during Doomtree Blowout week. On Sunday December 4, he will be performing at 7th St Entry with Brother Ali, Astronautalis, and One Be Lo. This is awesome.

In light of the news, I wanted to share with you One Be Lo's latest album, LABOR. One Be Lo has been laying low lately, as we haven't heard much from the talented Michigan rapper since his 2007 album The REBIRTH. Well, he's back and still in fine form. Check the album out below, and purchase it at his Bandcamp site.

One Be Lo: LABOR (Language Arts Based On Reality)

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://onebelo.bandcamp.com/album/labor"&amp;amp;gt;LABOR by One Be Lo&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

I.B.E.: "Understanding"

2011-11-08T11:16:00.001-06:00

In a break from his Pages From That Tape project, I.B.E. sent me the first song from an upcoming compilation he is working on, Watch This Too. Influenced by Jay-Z and Kanye's "luxury rap" album, Watch the Throne, I.B.E.'s version will serve as its antithesis. Watch This Too will borrow some of the beats from WTT and focus on economic inequality. Below is the first release, "Understanding."

I.B.E.: "Understanding"

ECID: Swagger Wagon EP

2011-11-08T11:07:00.001-06:00

Minneapolis emcee/producer ECID just released this free EP. Stream it below, and if you like what you hear head to his Bandcamp site and download it.

ECID: Swagger Wagon EP

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://ecid.bandcamp.com/album/swagger-wagon"&amp;amp;gt;Swagger Wagon by Ecid&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Doomtree: No Kings (Promo Video)

2011-11-05T14:14:00.000-05:00

Anxiously awaiting the next Doomtree single or video from No Kings. Album in stores 11/22/11, preorders available now.

Classified: "Maybe It's Just Me ft. Brother Ali" (Music Video)

2011-11-04T12:55:00.001-05:00

I posted this track in March when Classified's Handshakes and Middle Fingers was released. Now, the song gets video treatment.

Prof: "Need Your Love" (Music Video)

2011-11-04T12:52:00.001-05:00

Ridiculous new video from Prof, off his recent King Gampo album.

Common: "Sweet"

2011-11-02T21:10:00.000-05:00

More new material from Common. Despite the name, this track is anything but sweet. Produced by No ID, who handled every song on his upcoming album, The Dreamer, The Believer.

A Loud Heart (Guante & Claire Taubenhaus): "The Illusion of Movement" (Video)

2011-11-02T20:44:00.003-05:00

Guante and Claire Taubenhaus' acoustic rap collaboration A Loud Heart will be released next week. If you're free go to the album release party next Friday.

A LOUD HEART (Guante & Claire Taubenhaus) CD release show:
Friday, 11/11/11 at Honey in MPLS
Featuring BLACK BLONDIE and an acoustic set from KRISTOFF KRANE
7-10pm | 18+ | $7

Black Milk: "Black and Brown ft. Danny Brown" (Music Video)

2011-11-02T20:35:00.000-05:00

Here's the video for a truncated version of "Black and Brown," a highlight from Black Milk's fantastic 2010 Album of the Year.

Common: "Blue Sky" (Music Video)

2011-10-29T16:28:00.003-05:00

I.B.E.: "42nd & 4th" (Music Video)

2011-10-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest video from I.B.E.'s That Tape release.

Illuminous 3: "Stand Strong" (Prod. Cecil Otter)

2011-10-29T16:22:00.003-05:00

Here's the latest in the Illuminous Free series, they recently did a few songs with various members of Doomtree.

Illuminous 3: "Stand Strong" (Prod. Cecil Otter)

Black Milk & Danny Brown: Black & Brown EP (Stream)

2011-10-26T20:41:00.004-05:00

Stream the new Black Milk and Danny Brown EP below. It's as good as you'd expect it to be. Or at least as good as I'd expect it to be. (Which is damn good.)

Black Milk and Danny Brown - Black and Brown EP by BLACK MILK

Big Quarters: "C'mon" (Music Video)

2011-10-26T20:38:00.001-05:00

Here is the lead single from Big Quarters' third studio release Party Like A Young Commie. The album will be out on November 29. Get your preorders in at http://bigquarters.com.

Guante: "Just A Song" + 'A Loud Heart' EP Announcement

2011-10-26T20:35:00.000-05:00

Up above is Guante doing his spoken word thing with "A Prayer for Indie Rappers." Below is Guante doing his rap thing with accompaniment from Claire Taubenhaus, Big Cats! and more. I suggest you check them both out. Be on the lookout for Guante's upcoming EP, A Loud Heart, due on 11/11/11.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://aloudheart.bandcamp.com/track/just-a-song"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Just a Song by A Loud Heart&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Doomtree: "The Grand Experiment" + No Kings Pre-Order

2011-10-14T10:17:00.000-05:00

There's a lot to digest in this post, I'll try to keep it simple.

Doomtree's sophomore crew album No Kings is due November 22.
The pre-order for the album has launched today. It includes CD and 2xLP options, as well as tons of other goodies and gadgets, like t-shirts, stickers, buttons, posters, and commemorative boxes. Who doesn't love commemorative boxes?
All pre-orders gain automatic entry into random drawings for Doomtree's mind blowing upcoming residency at First Ave/7th St Entry. Random winners, announced every week, get tickets to all seven shows. A lucky winner gets VIP treatment at every show, one night in a lucury Minneapolis hotel, and $77.77 to blow on gas/booze/etc that weekend.
Place your pre-orders at Doomtree's website.
Below is a stream of "The Grand Experiment," the first single from No Kings. Everyone raps but P.O.S., who sings the hook. I like the song but would have enjoyed a verse from each rapping member, similar to "Drumsticks."

Doomtree "The Grand Experiment" by doomtree

Villa Rosa: "Uma Thurman"

2011-10-14T09:59:00.002-05:00

Villa Rosa's Blue Diamond Island is available now. Find it at Bandcamp or your local record store.

Villa Rosa: "Uma Thurman"

Jordan Looney: "Crab Rangoon"

2011-10-14T09:55:00.000-05:00

Here's some new material from St. Paul native/Chicago resident Jordan Looney, whose Nerd-Hop, Vol. 3: Side B is coming soon.

Crab Rangoon by Jordan Looney

The Tribe & Big Cats!: "Good Life ft. Smoke DZA" (Music Video)

2011-10-14T09:31:00.001-05:00

Here is the final video in The Tribe & Big Cats! Make Good project, a series that saw them releasing some of their best work to date. Check it out.

You should probably also grab their NUN FUX GVN t-shirt, because it's awesome.

The Tribe & Big Cats!: "Good Life ft. Smoke DZA"

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thetribeandbigcats.bandcamp.com/track/good-life-ft-smoke-dza-clean"&amp;amp;gt;Good Life ft. Smoke DZA (clean) by The Tribe &amp;amp;amp;amp; Big Cats!&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

I.B.E.: "Holdin Somethin ft. Dodi Phy" (Music Video)

2011-10-14T09:14:00.001-05:00

Here is the first music video from I.B.E.'s That Tape release. You can check out and download the entire mixtape below.

I.B.E.: That Tape

<a href="http://ibemusic.bandcamp.com/album/that-tape">That Tape by I.B.E</a>

M.anifest: "Motion Picture" (Music Video)

2011-09-30T11:49:00.003-05:00

If you didn't know already, M.anifest's got a new album out, Immigrant Chronicles: Coming to America. Right there is the iTunes link, and I know it's at local stores like Electric Fetus and Fifth Element. Go cop that.

Word is M.anifest is getting love from Flea, and doing some shows with Blur/Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn, one of my favorites. Big props to M.anifest on that. Shout out to Sound Verite.

Dessa: "The Beekeper"

2011-09-30T11:46:00.001-05:00

Doomtree staying busy, as always. Dessa's new album, Castor, the Twin, will be out on Tuesday. Itis composed of reworked versions of her older songs, complete with full backing band for a richer sound. Should be a good one. Doomtree sophomore effort No Kings coming in November, too.

Dessa: "The Beekeper"

Orikal Uno: +1 EP

2011-09-30T11:43:00.000-05:00

Orikal Uno came up with a neat idea for a quick-hitter EP. It's called +1, because each of the three tracks contain a single guest. Featured along with Orikal Uno on these tracks are Sab the Artist (Musab), Mac Lethal, and Prof.

Orikal Uno: +1 EP

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://orikaluno.bandcamp.com/album/1"&amp;amp;gt;+1 by Orikal Uno&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Illuminous 3: Montessori

2011-09-30T11:38:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest project from Minneapolis trio Illuminous 3, along with some words about it from Franz Diego:

Our latest project is called "Montessori" and it was made to capture the times and memories that we all shared together attending Seward Montessori Elementary school in South Minneapolis. Seward is where we all met and the Montessori style had a huge impact not only on our learning, but how we viewed the world, understood other's differences and just basically how we grew up.

Mike Swoop produced, mixed and mastered the entire project.

Illuminous 3: Montessori

A Benefit to Celebrate the Life of Brother Mahdi

2011-09-28T12:57:00.002-05:00

Tonight at the Varsity Theatre in Dinkytown is a benefit concert to celebrate the life of a lost member of the Twin Cities hip-hop community. Below is the press release from First Avenue:

Charles Augustus Bryant “Mahdi” (AKA D.J. Nex), beloved member of the Hip-Hop community, passed away on August 26, 2011 after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. Mahdi is survived by 4 children and many loving family members. Mahdi is Co Founder of The Nation Of Gods and Earths MN, School Of Thought, B Boy Commity, and Nexborn Inc.

A benefit will be held September 28, 2011 at the Varsity Theater to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Twin Cities Hip Hop legend, pioneer, and cultural ambassador Brother Mahdi (AKA Dj Nex).

ALL proceeds will be donated directly to Mahdi’s children.

Hosted by: The GODBLAC

Featuring:Slug, Brother Ali, Muja Messiah, Maria Isa, Desdamona, The Guardians Of Balance (St Paul Slim & Mastermind), High North, Long Doe (Tony Bones, Mike the Martyr, and Big Wiz), Trina Girl

On the 1's and 2's Dj's:Dan Speak, Stage One, Kool Akiem, Brother Julez, IXL, Verb X

Toki Wright Performs at the Audio Perm Block Party (Video)

2011-09-28T12:50:00.002-05:00

Here's footage of Toki tearing it down at the Audio Perm Block Party last month. The man climbed on a roof. Enough said.

Villa Rosa: "Liberation Karma" (Music Video)

2011-09-28T12:37:00.002-05:00

Villa Rosa's new album Blue Diamond Island is available now, so go cop that.

Unknown Prophets: "New Day"

2011-09-28T12:34:00.004-05:00

Here is the lead single to Unknown Prophets' World Premier 2. Hard to believe World Premier came out a decade ago. The World Premier 2 release party will be on 11/11/11 at the Triple Rock.

Unknown Prophets: "New Day"

Evidence: "Late For The Sky ft. Slug & Aesop Rock"

2011-09-22T21:38:00.002-05:00

Speaking of album of the year contenders, Evidence's Cats & Dogs will be released on Tuesday. Here's a track featuring Slug and Aesop Rock.

Evidence: "Late For The Sky ft. Slug & Aesop Rock"

Evidence - Late For The Sky feat. Slug and Aesop Rock (Radio Rip) by rhymesayers

Fifth Element Parking Lot Sale this Saturday

2011-09-22T21:35:00.000-05:00

You can catch me at Fifth Element this Saturday for their amazing parking lot sale. I'll be there either before or after the Badgers game, look for the guy in red.

Kanye West: "All Falls Down" (Live at a Poetry Slam)

2011-09-22T21:24:00.001-05:00

Above is some old footage of a pre-fame Kanye West performing an altered a capella version of "All Falls Down" at a spoken word event. Mos Def, who was emceeing the event, must have peered into his crystal ball before introducing Kanye as "the future of hip-hop."

The Tribe & Big Cats!: "One Call Away ft. BJ The Chicago Kid and Greg Grease" (Music Video)

2011-09-22T21:22:00.000-05:00

Here's another one from The Tribe & Big Cats! Make Good series. These tracks have been some of their best work to date.

The Tribe & Big Cats!: "One Call Away ft. BJ The Chicago Kid and Greg Grease"

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thetribeandbigcats.bandcamp.com/track/one-call-away-ft-bj-the-chicago-kid-and-greg-grease"&amp;amp;gt;One Call Away ft. BJ The Chicago Kid and Greg Grease by The Tribe &amp;amp;amp;amp; Big Cats! ft. BJ The Chicago Kid and Greg Grease&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Sims: "LMG" (Music Video)

2011-09-22T21:16:00.001-05:00

It's late September and Bad Time Zoo is still an album of the year candidate.

Villa Rosa (Muja Messiah & Maria Isa): "Watch Out" (Music Video)

2011-09-17T12:48:00.000-05:00

Muja Messiah and Maria Isa are longtime friends and have collaborated on several songs before, but now they're putting out a whole album together until the name Villa Rosa. The two are headlining the First Ave mainroom tonight, so head downtown to catch the show if you can.

Villa Rosa (Muja Messiah & Maria Isa): "Watch Out

Midwest Broadcast Posting Update

2011-09-17T12:38:00.000-05:00

Let's cut right to the chase. The most recent post in Midwest Broadcast happened on Friday, September 2. That was over two weeks ago. That's pathetic. But instead of apologizing to those of you who still check and read this website, I think this is a good time to reassess the current state of Midwest Broadcast.

Gone are the glory days of this blog when I was attending college and had the free time to update it multiple times throughout the day. I'm currently looking at some big turning points in my life. I'm just starting a new job, and on top of that I'm beginning to apply to graduate school. Frankly, I just don't have as much free time to work on this site as I once did. That doesn't mean I'm going to stop updating Midwest Broadcast – I still aim for it to be an important forum for Twin Cities and Midwest hip-hop. I just want to make it clear that I am not currently able to update the site as diligently as I once was. I encourage you to keep visiting the site, and in turn I'll do my best to be more prolific than I in recent weeks.

As always, thanks for reading. Peace.

Sims: Wildlife EP (Prod. Lazerbeak)

2011-09-02T14:08:00.001-05:00

Wildlife is an EP of songs that Sims and Lazerbeak recorded in 2009 and 2010. Sims is releasing it to thank his fans for supporting him through the release of Bad Time Zoo (still one of the year's best hip-hop albums) and his first headlining national tour. Make sure to attend one of his shows if he comes through your town; Sims and Lazerbeak together are a great live act to see. Stream the Wildlife EP below, or click through to Bandcamp to download the project.

Sims: Wildlife EP (Prod. Lazerbeak)

<a href="http://sims.bandcamp.com/album/wildlife">Wildlife by Sims</a>

Alex Frecon: The Hedgehog Dilemma (Free EP)

2011-09-02T13:56:00.002-05:00

Alex Frecon is a new rapper from Minneapolis who just released his debut EP, The Hedgehod Dilemma. Stream it below, and drop a comment to share your thoughts on the project.

The Hedgehog Dilemma by AlexFrecon

MaD SoN: "Wishing Well"

2011-09-02T13:51:00.004-05:00

MaD SoN of Unknown Prophets made a remix of Lil Wayne's "Anne" to be released on his upcoming mixtape.

The Cool Kids: "Summer Jam" (Music Video)

2011-09-02T13:48:00.001-05:00

The Cool Kids long-awaited album When Fish Ride Bicycles is available now.

Toki Wright: "Real Live ft. Yakub" (Music Video)

2011-09-02T13:41:00.000-05:00

I'm mad late on this video but if you haven't seen it yet, here is "Real Live" featuring a guest verse from Yakub. Toki is performing tonight at the 7th Street Entry with St. Paul Slim and Kids Like Us. It's only five dollars to get in the door, so if you don't have any plans for tonight I highly recommend checking that out.

Prof: King Gampo (Full Album Download)

2011-08-24T11:45:00.003-05:00

You may remember Prof's announcement of his new album King Gampo because of its wonderfully creative and extensive preorder package. Well, the album came out about a week ago, but what I didn't realize is that Prof actually made the whole thing available for free. Check out the album below, go download it, and make sure to award this man's generosity by supporting him at one of his live shows.

Prof: King Gampo

<a href="http://profstophouse.bandcamp.com/album/king-gampo">King Gampo by Prof</a>

Toki Wright: "Real Live ft. Yakub"

2011-08-24T10:41:00.004-05:00

I posted the teaser to the music video for "Real Live" yesterday, now here's the full song, produced by DJ Three A Day. You can stream it below, or purchase it from BandCamp or iTunes.

<a href="http://soultools.bandcamp.com/track/real-live-feat-yakub-explicit">Real Live (feat. Yakub) *Explicit by Toki Wright feat. Yakub (Prod. DJ Three A Day)</a>

BK-One: "Tema Do Canibal" (Music Video)

2011-08-24T10:33:00.002-05:00

Here's some a dope music video featuring BK-One and the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble performing "Tema Do Canibal" live. BK-One's Tema Do Canibal EP will be out soon. Preorder it via Fifth Element.

See More Perspective: "Summertime Hip Hop BBQ Jam for the World (Remix) ft. Guante & Heidi Barton Stink"

2011-08-24T10:28:00.002-05:00

Here's a new old joint from See More Perspective, as his "Summertime Hip-Hop BBQ Jam" was remixed with a new verse, some added beatboxing, and guest spots from Guante and Heidi Barton Stink.

See More Perspective: "Summertime Hip Hop BBQ Jam for the World (Remix) ft. Guante & Heidi Barton Stink"

Toki Wright: "Real Live" (Music Video Teaser)

2011-08-23T15:00:00.000-05:00

Toki Wright's got a new video for "Real Live" coming down the line very soon. It'll be out on Thursday, so check back for it then. Also, in case you didn't catch this, Toki announced that his new album will be titled Channels.

Big Jess: "Not About Ya'll" (Music Video)

2011-08-23T14:51:00.002-05:00

This one's from Big Jess' Self Therapy album. It's been out for a while now, and it's free, so go get that if you don't have it.

Greg Grease: "Leave It Or Love It" (Music Video)

2011-08-23T14:46:00.001-05:00

Greg Grease shot this while out in New York City a few weeks ago. He'll be releasing The Cornbread, Pearl, and G EP next month, so be looking for that to drop.