The Herd – Future Shade Tour feat. Sietta

Forming like Voltron, The Herd blaze across the country on the Future Shade Tour with the newest Elefant Traks signees Sietta as well as a swag of great acts in each city including Jimblah, Impossible Odds, Acumen and many others. Not only that but you can get the first song from Future Shade when you buy your ticket! The Herd are set to unveil their fifth album, Future Shade. In the lead up to the release The Herd are releasing an 8 Part series on all aspects the album, check out Part 1 with Jane Tyrrell here. Part 2 (below) features Urthboy talking about his love of fast cars and artist management in Elefant Traks.  He describes how Grandma’s Song from The Herd’s upcoming album … Continue reading The Herd – Future Shade Tour feat. Sietta

360 – Killer

As an added bonus 360 has just released the third single from his upcoming album Falling & Flying, a bumper of a track titled Killer. Check it out below now. It’s also official that Rapper Tag has had more than 1 million views on YouTube (1,011,127 to be exact). Falling & Flying will be out September 30, through Soulmate/EMI. 360 – Killer (Colwell/Behr/Allen/Cann/Currie/Ure). Produced by ’96 Bulls. Available @ iTunes 22nd August 2011. Contains a sample from ‘Alles Klar’ by Ultravox included courtesy of Chrysalis Records Limited. Contains elements from ‘Alles Klar’, written by Allen/Cann/Currie/Ure and published by Sing Sing Songs Ltd/Jump-Jet Music Ltd/Hot Food Music Ltd/Mood Music Ltd. All … Continue reading 360 – Killer

Funkoars – The Quickening Album Launch Tour

The Funkoars are back ‘n badder than ever and are set to unleash their highly anticipated fourth album The Quickening on Friday 16th of September through Golden Era Records. Fresh off the back of releasing their thumping first single Where I Am, the Funkoars are proud to announce The Quickening Album Launch Tour which will see them touring extensively throughout the country from September through November. Known for having one of the most dangerous shows in the business, Funkoars will be performing an all-new live show incorporating songs from The Quickening as well as their claaaassic material that forged them … Continue reading Funkoars – The Quickening Album Launch Tour

Sonnyjim – The Psychonaut LP

To Whom It May Concern:  I am writing to you on behalf of my client Sonnyjim, to inform you of his recent discontent at the bastardized image of hip-hop music portrayed and traded by popular culture. Gun toting, money fetishizing and the constant oppression of the proverbial “ho” reign supreme as rap’s status quo, and real underground hip-hop is seen as “whatever”. My client, Sonnyjim, is entirely repulsed that such a widely appreciated and intelligently honed form of “street-music” is constantly overlooked by the media in favour of the flavour of the month. In order to adequately resolve this situation, … Continue reading Sonnyjim – The Psychonaut LP

The Herd – Future Shade

It is the most complete realisation of the band’s vision, and their most carefully produced record to date. From a love of ‘90s hip hop (Red Queen Theory) to Eastern European soul (Grandma’s Song); from a Sufjan influence (My Sister’s Palace) to the incomparable (Signs of Life), Future Shade is underpinned by hip hop, but is not contained by any genre. At their essence, The Herd have always explored the personal and the political: but the fury of a song like 77% has given way to the subtlety of a song like Shihaba, detailing a family member’s encounter with racist … Continue reading The Herd – Future Shade

360 – Stand The Fuck Up (Download)

As an expression of 360’s gratitude, here’s a link to his latest (absolutely free) mixtape – the long awaited sequel to Please Be Seated 1 & 2. It’s called Stand The F**k Up. It features some of hjs favourite Australian emcees including Illy, Justice, GMC, Vegas Aces, Prime, Infinite and Tys, plus flipped versions of some of his favourite tracks at the moment. He thinks you’re going to love it. In return, hey only asks one thing – that you pre-order his album Falling & Flying! The response so far has been amazing, but in order to really achieve his … Continue reading 360 – Stand The Fuck Up (Download)

Thundamentals Interview: ThundaCats, Thoughts & Talent

Just over a week ago, Blue Mountains Crew Thundamentals dropped the highly anticipated follow-up to their 2009 Sleeping On Your Style release with the stunning LP Foreverlution. aahh catches up with Jeswon to talk all things album related, the recent KON Design comp and what’s shooting Thudamentals latest LP in to the CD players of thousands country-wide. Strap yourself in…blast off!! aahh: Fans of Thundamentals have been waiting since 2009 for a follow-up to the critically acclaimed Sleeping On Your Style LP release. What’s been the biggest change for you as a group since that release and how will Foreverlution build on that last album? Jeswon: I would have to … Continue reading Thundamentals Interview: ThundaCats, Thoughts & Talent

Matte Blac – The Colour Of Sound

After a long time of crafting his style, Melbourne MC Matte Blac, one half of the duo Mixed Alliance, has released his debut solo mixtape The Colour of Sound for free download. For his keen sense of social trends and world events, Matte is one who understands great lyrics, no backpedaling into tired metaphors each rhyme makes you think just hard as the previous.  Taking listeners on a journey from the mellow opening track to the thumping finale, Matte wanted people to see the world as he sees it, through his cryptic rhyme style, it makes you listen again and read between the lines to … Continue reading Matte Blac – The Colour Of Sound

Phrase – Babylon (Out Today)

Artfully designed to jack up your adrenalin, Phrase’s third studio album Babylon hums with tremolo guitar, Farfisa and Hammond lines. The choruses (so epic they must be carved into the side of a mountain somewhere) feature gutsy vocals from an unlikely crew of special guests including Alex Burnett of Sparkadia, Davey Lane (The Pictures/You Am I), Guineafowl, Jane Doe, Jimmy Barnes and Phrase singing, for the first time, himself. Accustomed to dropping his rhymes over loops and breaks, this time around Harley did away with all the samples and penned songs from scratch on guitar. Finding himself leaning to the raw, … Continue reading Phrase – Babylon (Out Today)

Koolta – The Influx EP (Exclusive Download)

Emerging South Australian Hip Hop artist Koolta, is a 22yo MC/Producer who was recently announced the winner of the 2011 Hilltop Hoods Initiative. With an all-round skill set, Koolta employs a DIY mentality, handling all his own production, writing, recording and mixing. Hailing from the Adelaide Hills, the last few years Koolta has contributed production and vocals on various local releases, such as K21’s – The Greenhouse compilation. In 2008 and 2009, Koolta shared the stage with K21 and DJ PT for a stack of shows around the country supporting the likes of the Funkoars, Drapht, Pegz, Vents, Terra Firma … Continue reading Koolta – The Influx EP (Exclusive Download)

Katalyst announces 3rd album ‘Deep Impressions’ and drops a free mixtape ‘Back To Basics Vol. 1’

Internationally renowned, ARIA nominated producer Katalyst returns with new album Deep Impressions, set for release on the 16th of September 2011 via Invada Records / Remote Control. The follow up album to his highly acclaimed 2007 album What’s Happening, a former triple j feature album, Deep Impressions is Katalyst’s third full length album and his most impressive work to date. The latest product of his audiophiliac obsession, Deep Impressions deconstructs and distils soul, hip hop, funk, jazz, reggae and electro influences into what is perhaps most accurately described as “the Katalyst sound”. Deep Impressions is a reflection of the large variety tunes … Continue reading Katalyst announces 3rd album ‘Deep Impressions’ and drops a free mixtape ‘Back To Basics Vol. 1’

Bam Bam Music

Bam Bam true to his name, this young emcee has burst on to the independent circuit with a huge buzz. Not only have we seen an explosive selection of tracks uploaded on to his Soundcloud page, but we’ve also seen this guy feature on 360’s mixtape Stand The Fuck Up and tour extensively with Uncle Six. Bam Bam heralds a new beginning in this emcee’s journey, pop culture, remixes, straight up hip hop and good times is this guys modus operandi. Be sure to keep an eye out for Bam Bam, an album will be coming soon. You can check out some of his recent tracks below, … Continue reading Bam Bam Music

Ellesquire – Ready (Out Now)

Big Village is very proud to announce the release of Ellesquire’s debut solo album Ready. Ellesquire is a rapper whose lyrics come across with an honesty and charm that is rarely heard within the local hip hop scene. Ready combines his smooth, flowing delivery and storytelling style with sample-heavy, lo-fi beats from prolific local producer P.Major. The sound pays tribute to 90s hip hop, while keeping a fresh feel by experimenting with atypical rhythms and melodies. The album’s lead single and title track Ready has helped Ellesquire generate a buzz as one of the most interesting artists to emerge on the local … Continue reading Ellesquire – Ready (Out Now)

Mantra – Speaking Volumes

Obese Records’ latest family member has been blazing a name for himself since 2005. From his early work with the group Equills and local Melbourne outfit Illzilla (fronting the group on their debut EP and Wasteland full length), Mantra’s captivating flow and intelligent lyrical connections continue to elevate his status as one of Australia’s most talented MCs as touted by both artists and fans. Mantra gives us an exclusive sneak peek at Self-Destruct featuring Promoe, a track off his upcoming album Speaking Volumes, out September 9th. Shot by: Ginger Van Es for Macula Productions Edited by: Romy Handley for Macula Productions … Continue reading Mantra – Speaking Volumes

Tommy Illfigga – Walk a Mile (August 12)

From Brisbane’s urban jungle comes Tommy Illfigga with a sure-fire ripper of an album entitled Walk a Mile. Tommy Illfigga is a pure-blood hip hop native. Since ‘99 the wily emcee has been skulking the scene in many capacities, earning many accolades to his names (plural), together Tommy Illfigga and his alter ego Tom Thumb are taking the world by storm. Tommy’s aptitude is apparent not only through his exceptional word-harnessing abilities, but also in his proficiency as a respected producer, B-boy, graff writer and Beat Boxer.  His first release The Unfiltered EP hit shelves in 2007, stirring the scene with … Continue reading Tommy Illfigga – Walk a Mile (August 12)

Funkoars – Where I Am Music Video

Adelaide circa 2003, three MC’s and one DJ release their debut full-length album under the name the Funkoars – Things haven’t been quite right since! They’re back! After going to ground 12 months ago, the Funkoars have resurfaced to deliver Where I Am the first single from their fourth LP The Quickening through Golden Era Records. Not only can you purchase the single on iTunes, but you now you can watch their brand spankin new music video for Where I Am directed by Selina Miles from Unity Sound & Visual. With scenes shot at up to 2000 frames per second by … Continue reading Funkoars – Where I Am Music Video

Drapht – The Party, Party, Party Tour 2011 feat. Muph & Plutonic

Muph & Plutonic join Drapht on  The Party, Party, Party Tour 2011 – tickets on sale Friday August 5. Those out there in the know, know that Muph & Plutonic haven’t stopped working the last two years. However their projects have been happening behind the scenes. Now stepping back out on the road, the Melbourne-based hip-hop duo have been announced to join Drapht on The Party, Party, Party tour. The tour hits capital cities and regional centers through September and October. In the last six months Muph & Plutonic have been hitting stages again, playing Come Together, Essence, Reconciliation festivals as a stripped back two piece with just Plutonic … Continue reading Drapht – The Party, Party, Party Tour 2011 feat. Muph & Plutonic

Chasm & Lazy Grey Rusty Griz

Sydney based producer Chasm is back! Check out the exclusive sneak-peek​ for the new single from Chasm & Lazy Grey available via iTunes August 5th through Obese Records. Be on the lookout for the next Chasm project coming towards the end of the year. Check out Rusty Griz below. Out on iTunes – August 5 through Obese Records Produced by Chasm. Lyrics written and performed by Lazy Grey. Recorded by Dcide @ The Family Home. Lazy Grey appears courtesy of Karsniogenics. Mixed & Mastered by Dan Elleson @ Dan’s Dojo Artwork by Dcide Continue reading Chasm & Lazy Grey Rusty Griz

Dry July – Month For Huntz

Some of the biggest names in local hip-hop, led by Perth man of the moment Drapht, formed a Dry July team in support of their compatriot, Robert “Huntz” Hunter who is battling terminal cancer. The initiative, which raises funds for adult cancer sufferers, ends today, and the group of musicians who have called themselves Month for Huntz have raised the most money in WA so far, with $10,572.53. Hunter, once known as the hard man of local hip-hop with a penchant for heavy drinking and drug- taking, is one of a new generation of digital communicators who, through his YouTube raps … Continue reading Dry July – Month For Huntz

Phrase – Apart

It’s customary for an artist on the promo trail to talk up (or big note) how progressive their new album is. But in the two years since Clockwork floored the hip-hop world, Phrase — aka Melbourne MC Harley Webster — has completely ripped up his past by the roots. Babylon, his third album, throws down the gauntlet to any musician feeling hemmed in by a scene and longing to paint a bigger picture. The first single, Apart, sets the stage for Babylon, as a garage stomper with guitar twists and a chorus sung by You Am I’s Davey Lane — … Continue reading Phrase – Apart

Class A serves new single featuring Ishu

Having dropped her exciting debut album Me, Me, Me and Him: The Secret Life of a Receptionist last year, Melbourne MC Class A is back and shows no sign of slowing down as she reveals new single Never featuring Ishu. Her last record saw her collaborating with Aussie hip hop heroes M-Phazes, BVA, Urban Monk and Doc Felix, which gained loads of local buzz and saw her truly cement her position within the Australian hip hop scene. She’s shared the stage with the likes of Dilated Peoples, Jean Grae, Talib Kweli, Gift of Gab (Blackalicious) and J-Live, as well as national … Continue reading Class A serves new single featuring Ishu

Rapper Tag #38 – Seth Sentry

Rapper Tag #38 live from Loungeroom, Coburg. Filmed by dands1 – Introduced to the live circuit in 2003 through performances with local hip hop/drum and bass outfit D.S.O.L.  Seth quickly became a fixture at Elf Tranzporter’s seminal ‘Phat Logic’ night from 2003-‘05, where he honed a freestyle technique that ultimately gained him local prominence through a third placing in the 2005 Revolver Battles competition. By this time he also organized and kicked off the successful weekly ‘Sideshow Freaks’ night at The Old Colonial in Fitzroy. Featuring a weekly line up of emcees and acts from around Australia, it was here he met and began … Continue reading Rapper Tag #38 – Seth Sentry

Illy – Cigarettes: New film clip

This is the third single from Illy’s wildly successful sophomore release The Chase, this track Cigarettes features Hue Blanes of the Melodics, with production by ARIA award‐winning M‐Phazes. Music video by Rockaway Media This October, Illy hits the road for his biggest tour yet. With relentless live shows and two acclaimed albums under his belt, the emcee has earned his crown as one of our of country’s top hip hop artists. With Sydney’s Spit Syndicate and Darwin’s Sietta joining the bill, and ARIA Award winning producer M-Phazes as host, this tour is the perfect follow-up to the 21 date (mostly sold out) album tour last March. It’s been one hell of a ride for Illy, with singles Pictures, It Can’t Wait’ (Feat. … Continue reading Illy – Cigarettes: New film clip

Bias B – Biaslife: Beginnings, Beats & Blessings Interview

Australian hip hop pioneer Bias B has announced his retirement after an extremely influential solo career. His last show in Melbourne at The Corner Hotel was true testament to his genre-defining reign as one of local hip hop’s original kings. The venue packed out with representatives from all corners of the industry showing their support. Here’s what fellow industry innovators Reason, Ciecmate and Pegz have to say about the legendary Melbourne emcee; “Being the first Melbourne based emcee I had ever heard, I’ve always drawn inspiration from Bias B. I have the esteemed honour of calling him a true friend, an honour I cherish. As an artist … Continue reading Bias B – Biaslife: Beginnings, Beats & Blessings Interview

Prime – Tunguska (Free Download)

Tunguska is the first track from South Australia’s Prime (Pagen Elypsis) upcoming release Good Morning, out later this year via Soulmate Records. You can download it for free here. Spread the word. Tunguska is produced by One Above. Cuts by DJ Hacksaw. Cover by Drake Designs. Cover image courtesy of Manfred Zeuch. Prime Is Here  ||  Twitter  || Direct Link Continue reading Prime – Tunguska (Free Download)

Solo – Rapper Tag #37 (Horrorshow)

Rapper tag #37 live from Brooklyn, NYC – The Rapper Tag Jagganaut marches on with MC Solo from Horrorshow, chilling it back a minute in Brooklyn NYC.  Horrorshow recently performed at the One Day at The Basement show earlier this year. The gig featured all acoustic sets from Joyride, Spit Syndicate and Horrorshow and was based around the guys reimagining their songs using the talents of their musician friends from other inner west bands like Made In Japan and Milan. If peeps are interested in tracking down some more recordings from the night, acoustic versions of two songs – Waiting For The 5:04 and a cover of American Girl – are available on the bandtag … Continue reading Solo – Rapper Tag #37 (Horrorshow)

Illy announces new tour feat. Spit Syndicate & Sietta

This October, Illy hits the road for his biggest tour yet. With relentless live shows and two acclaimed albums under his belt, the emcee has earned his crown as one of our of country’s top hip hop artists. With Sydney’s Spit Syndicate and Darwin’s Sietta joining the bill, and ARIA Award winning producer M-Phazes as host, this tour is the perfect follow-up to the 21 date (mostly sold out) album tour last March. It’s been one hell of a ride for Illy, with singles Pictures, It Can’t Wait’ (Feat. Owl Eyes), and The Chase already becoming radio favourites. Illy’s latest single Cigarettes has just hit radio … Continue reading Illy announces new tour feat. Spit Syndicate & Sietta

Nymphlow – Ain’t It A Pity // City Under Siege // Digital 12″

A forgotten child of note pads and spray-cans, Nymphlow is the writer’s emcee of 90’s hip-hop lost in a saturated new millennium. Influenced by the cerebral lyricism and DIY ethic of crews such as Wu-Tang Clan and D.I.T.C., Nymphlow’s authorial discipline as a recording artist offers a rebirth of hip-hop’s golden era. The homie Nymphlow just dropped his debut digital 12″ for free download so here’s your chance to pick it up. Produced by Geko, it features 2 remixes, one by WIK (Crate Cartel) and one by Newsense (BTE), with the cuts provided by Dazed. This is def one for the … Continue reading Nymphlow – Ain’t It A Pity // City Under Siege // Digital 12″

Thundamentals – Foreverlution (Behind The Scenes)

Newtown hip hop 3 piece Thundamentals have announced the impending release of their sophomore album Foreverlution, the eagerly anticipated follow up to their 2009 longplayer Sleeping On Your Style. With their own national album launch shows TBA and lead single Paint The Town Red already on Triple j rotation, The Thunda’s are back in force. Building upon Sleeping On Your Style’s outstanding production, eclectic musical influences and compelling rhymes, Foreverlution is, as the title would suggest, a deliberate blend of timeless organic tones interspersed with more contemporary sounding influences. Producing almost the entire record, DJ Morgs has really stepped up-to the … Continue reading Thundamentals – Foreverlution (Behind The Scenes)

Sietta – The Seventh Passenger (Out Now)

Be prepared to be impressed by the fiery electronic soul of Darwin duo Sietta, and their debut album The Seventh Passenger. With a voice influenced by the rugged blues of Etta James and Memphis Minni, Caiti Baker’s powerful presence and themes of empowerment, love and hurt leave an unforgettable mark on the listener. In another time she may have gone down an R&B/pop path – such is her rich soaring delivery. Thankfully, Sietta didn’t dumb down; embracing a grittier direction, coated in a disarmingly alluring voice. As Kahlil Gibran said: ‘Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in … Continue reading Sietta – The Seventh Passenger (Out Now)