January 2014 Sydney Hip Hop events

Whenever you find yourself asking the inevitable question, "What's on this weekend?", keep this page handy so you'll never be left wondering.  In fact, this is only a taste of what's to come this month, check back for regular updates, or feel free to contact me with gigs you'd like to add.  If you didn't know I've even posted links to all pre-sale tickets, no more searching!

2nd

BRKLYN Presents- Bar BRKLYN (downstairs Hotel Steyne), Manly
The only hip hop night on northern beaches is back this year and bigger than ever!  This and every Thursday for the foreseeable future will be filled with dope hip hop beats.  Local and international acts will grace this stage with their undeniable talents each week, all thanks to our host State Advanced and his partner in crime, DJ Prolifik on the decks.  You're still on holidays?  Well this is the perfect time to make the trek north.  This week check out local producer and DJ Pro/gram.  Haven't heard of him yet? Check out his unearthed page here.
9pm-late
FREE event

4th

Dead Prez and Talib Kweli- The Metro Theatre, Central
Want to start your new year out right? Throw out all those dodgy habits like wasting your money on lame hip hop acts with no substance.  Sydney has spoken and we want real artists!  Presales for this night sold out in a matter of hours, so get in early as there's no guarantee of tickets on the door.  If you want a night of real lyrics that attack social and political issues head on then this is the place to be. Both these acts have made bold statements on where they stand, Tweli has even enjoyed some commercial success without ever compromising his integrity. Though almost two decades in the game, they are still active members of the community.  Talib Kweli even released two albums just last year.  Not only that but the whole line up is incredible.  There are not many Australian acts who could share this bill in my opinion.  But L-FRESH the LION would certainly be on that list and he will make the show even better as he is a perfect example of someone who carries the movement forward beautifully.  This is one I've been really looking forward to.
Tickets $50
Doors 8pm

9th

Beat Thieves- Bar BRKLYN (downstairs Hotel Steyne), Manly
As part of this week's BRKLYN presents you can check out this brand new hip hop group Beat Thieves in one of their first ever performances.  True to the name, no original beats have been created for this project, they simply jack beats that they like from other artists and use them as they wish.  Before you ask yourself, "is that even legal?" Just calm down for a minute and realise that this project was only created as a bit of fun and is a side project for the three emcees who are all involved with other separate groups.  Their FREE EP "Grand Thief Audio" can be downloaded here.
Comprised of emcees: EaRelevant (Broken Thought Theory), Semantics Uno (High Noon), and DLB (Hometeam) with DJ Prolific on the decks
9pm- late
FREE Entry

10th

Freshly Squeezed- The Factory Theatre, Marrickville
Back for 2014 and in a new venue, our hosts have gathered together a diverse mix of Sydney hip hop royalty along with up and comers to support Hyjak in the release of his first solo studio album, "The Light at the End of the Tunnel." In the spirit of new releases young Melbourne artist, Dr Flea will be launching his own EP- "Keep On Moving"
Also DJ Izm, P. Smurf, Swarmy, Son of Sam & Big Hustle, Juzlo, Thorn, & DJ Raine Supreme
Tickets $10
Doors 7pm

Hand That MC a Mic #3- Brighton Up Bar, Darlinghurst
A yearly event started by Electric Elements crew back in 2011, this is a night focused on giving up and coming and brand new emcees the chance to perform on stage, possibly for the first time, and also gain exposure and confidence by working with established artists.  A video competition held during the year has led to the selection of these finalists, who will perform as guest emcees on the night- Pyne, Wooncrew, Casa, Ennisey, Vursified, and Jinz. The night will include performances by Electric Elements, Koolta, Sleepwalkers, Nhostic & DJ Riley JM, and 316.  The last two years have sold out, so best to secure tickets early!
Tickets: $10
Doors 8pm

Roleo X Papertoy Double EP Launch- The Sly Fox, Enmore
Presented by Die High Records
Daily Meds DJ, Roleo- Purple Island FREE EP out now.  Get it here!
Special Guests: Klue, Meare, Tobio, Yonderkid
FREE Entry
830pm

16th

Funkoars- Carmens Night Club, Miranda
Since they're skipping out on a Sydney city show, this is about the closest that you're going to get to seeing these hip hop legends, at least for the first part of this year.  Word is this is because they want to stick to the beaches on this tour.
Joined on tour by Mr Hill & Rahjconkas and supported locally by Willis & Miz Lush
Tickets $23.50
Doors 8pm

Hip Hop House Party- Oxford Arts Factory, Darlinghurst
Oxford Arts has come to the rescue once again to bring us a brand new monthly hip hop night!  And just in time really as nights like these have been sorely lacking! Starting off strong, this first night brings two of Sydney's best- Daily Meds and Mind Over Matter.  Also some of this city's up and comers will be allowed to shine with performances by Sleazy Greazy, Papa Tear, Shadows, DJ Skae, Kosmic Culture, and eGASM. Come out and support the community and let people know that we want more nights like this!
Tickets $15
Doors 8pm

BRKLYN Presents- Bar BRKLYN (downstairs Hotel Steyne), Manly
If you like your hip hop nights a bit closer to beachside, you should check this one out.  If you live on the other side of the harbour like me, you could complain about how it's too far, or you could attempt to be posh and tell your friends that you're "going overseas." har har har, but really this place has got the dope hip hop beats spinning every Thursday with DJ Prolifik.  Come for end of week drinks.  Thursday is the new Friday! Let's chill.
9pm-late
FREE Entry


18th

Loose Change-  Civic Underground, Sydney city
They've toured the country and now they're back home to present the launch for their 2nd LP "Listening Party." This trio which consists of emcees Ellesquire and Rapaport and producer P. Major have been creating music together for a solid 5 years now.  And their back to say, they may be growing older but they're certainly not growing up. (Well not too much anyway.)
Supported by: Beastside, Billy Green, and DJ Morgz
Tickets $15 presale/  $20 on the door
Doors 9pm

21st- 26th

Tom Thum- Sydney Festival, Sydney city
This Brisbane beat boxer has amazed audiences at festivals worldwide going solo on stage with just a mic.  You will be amazed by the sounds he can make come out of his mouth.  He is certainly one of the best in the world at his craft.  If you want to hit up any shows in the Sydney Festival this is something you won't want to miss, and it will be family friendly too.
Tickets and more info here ($42 or $140 family ticket)
Tues- Sun 8pm
Saturday 2pm & 8pm

22nd

Hip Hop Arcade- Flinders Hotel, Surry Hills
After a holiday break, this mid-week hip hop night is back and even better in the new year!  After finishing up last year with a Street Fighter II tournament, this crew is ready to bring you what you love the best.  A new tournament has finally been announced and it's NBA Jam! This will be Round 1, new competitors will be taken on each week for 7 weeks, and all the winners will go head to head in the final on March 5.  Stay up to date with all the details by signing up here.  As always Sydney's finest, DJ Raine Supreme, will be spinning hip hop beats all night, along with other special guests throughout the coming weeks.  Come to play or just to hang out and chill in this super fun and relaxed environment.
6pm- late, competition starts about 8pm
FREE Entry

23rd

Sloppy Joe ft. State Advanced- Bar BRKLYN (downstairs Hotel Steyne), Manly
Sloppy Joe is an improvisational funk band that has been playing together for over 10 years.  They are comprised of Michael Wheatley on keys, Steel O'Neil on drums, and Serg on bass. Them combined with the witty wordplay of Canadian born emcee State Advanced and you've got a night you don't want to miss!
9pm- late
FREE Entry

Bayside Wreckers- The Standard, Darlinghurst
Nothing like a last minute gig for some excitement! Just heard about this one yesterday.  Why not make the weekend a bender?  We're at the height of the summer and I've got gigs for days! This duo layers styles upon styles, always keeping their live show interesting. 
With hip hop/ soul group- Apollo Creed and DJ Bobby Digital
Doors 8pm
Tickets: $10

24th

Def Wish Cast- Beach Road Hotel, Bondi
If you don't know then you really need to know.  Def Wish Cast could be considered the grandfathers of Australian hip hop.  They were representing the culture way back in the late 80's, before hip hop was even a genre in Australia.  Though Hilltop Hoods gets the most credit for making Australian hip hop what it is today, Def Wish's first album, released in '93 was probably the first full length hip hop album out of Australia. Having said that, new music is on its way with an album dropping later this year.  Their new single "City Knights" features Thavy Ear, who will be joining them on the night along with DJ A.S.K. and DJ Secret Weapon. Also with Lez Beckett on the didge, you know you'll be starting off your Australia Day weekend the right way. Also it's free so why the hell not??
8pm
FREE Entry


25th

Astronautalis- Brighton Up Bar, Darlinghurst
I'll come right out and say that this one means a lot to me, and I would love to see as many of you there are possible.  Have you ever wished that you could travel the world just on a dream of spreading your love of music to as many people as possible?  Does the thought of spending most of your life in motion- from never ending highways on the back of a motorcycle to long hours spent crammed in the middle seat of coach section as you plane hop around the world- appeal to you?  This is the life of a drifter.  And though a drifter this artist is, Astronautalis is a drifter with a purpose.  The goal is not just the feel of the open road, but the promise of concocting some new form of magic each night.  I'd be hesitant to call this strictly hip hop music because his raps and flows can traverse such a wide range of backup music.  Also he is an impeccable freestyler, something he will indulge in each night, making each show a truly unique experience shared between him and his audience.  He has played the world over and again, truthfully stating that he will travel anywhere in the world that he is able to book a show in.  He has played at tiny bars in eastern Europe, right through to stadiums in New York city.  This short run of Australian shows will be his first introduction to the local hip hop scene, and I assure you this trip will see him gain some new fans.  So even if you have no idea who this emcee is, take a chance on something new.  Come for the local supports, and stay for to witness the magic that follows.
Supported by an eclectic mix of killer local acts who would make a stunning lineup all on their own:
Empire Rising, Deadbeat and Hazy, & Broken Thought Theory
Tickets $17
Doors 8pm

Snoop Dogg aka Snoop Lion aka Snoopzilla- Enmore Theatre, Newtown
This will be your first chance to catch the reinvented Snoop Dogg after that inspirational trip to Jamaica that changed his perspective and his name and saw him breaking into the reggae market. Having reached the pinnacle of his rap career, there was really nothing else that this hip hop pioneer could hope to reach for. And so after an in-depth study of the homeland of Bob Marley, and meeting the reggae legends past and present there, he came out of this smokey haze of a trip dubbed "Snoop Lion." And upon listening you have to admit that he really goes for this new genre, and he does it WELL.  This show will include a mix of his hip hop classics along with new reggae hits.  We can only hope that a hologram Tupac will join him on stage.   Hey you never know! This could be one of those nights where years from now you'll be telling your kids you where there!
Joined by Mac Miller
Tickets: $78.60
Doors 7pm

26th

One Day Sundays- The Projects behind Vic on the Park, Enmore
Last year, the celebrations at this space on Australia Day (although I missed out cause I was never able to actually find it that time) was the inspiration for beginning  a regular event there.  This car park turned entertainment venue has been the perfect space to bring hip hop heads together each month for celebrations.  With a space big enough for a small stage setup, walls for graff, a basketball court, as well as food and drinks available, this space has it all.  Always taking place on the last Sunday of each month, this one has been lucky enough to fall right on Australia Day itself, and I'm sure the celebration will be huge. Although the specifics haven't been announced yet, there's no way this will be one you can miss, it's sure to be the biggest yet!
1pm- late
Free Event

29th

Hip Hop Arcade- Flinders Hotel, Surry Hills
Play arcade games on the big screen, with real joystick controllers.  Register here for the tournament (NBA Jam) or just hang around for some free play on the night.  Followed by some great hip hop DJs, stay as late as you dare on a school night! Food and drink specials all night.
6pm- late
Free Event

BRKLYN Presents- Bar BRKLYN (downstairs Hotel Steyne), Manly
I've said it before and I'll say it again.  The ONLY hip hop night at the northern beaches.  Definitely worth a trek for a night of good beats, good people, and cold drinks.  DJ Prolifk spinning the best mix of classics and newness all night.
9pm- late
FREE Entry

31st

Vent- Valve Bar (upstairs Agincourt Hotel), Ultimo
Brand new monthly hip hop night hosted by Izzy (Izzy & the Profit) bringing you tons of fantastic local acts. This is a relaxed and somewhat informal setting where anyone who likes can feel free to jump on the open mic/ cipher at the end of the night.  This month all these great acts will be preforming for you:
Savilian, Sarah Connor, Volatyle, Oakbridge, and Planet Crushers.
I'm really excited about this one!
Tickets $10 on the door
Doors 9pm

Reverse Polarities- The Oxford Art Factory, Darlinghurst
To kick off their full national tour, Big Village will be hosting an album release party for "On the Contrary," RP's debut album, which has been an extremely long time in the making.  But not to worry, that has only given them all the more time to make sure this one is a stand out classic.  If you're getting a little bit confused on this Daily Meds & Reverse Polarites debacle let me give you a bit of a rundown.  Reverse Polarities as it is today began back in 2005, although the concept came much earlier.  The three emcees: Mikoen, Mute MC, and P-Smurf had similar political ideas, and thought it would downright atrocity if they didn't hit Sydney with the truth.  They are joined by sometimes rapper and full time producer/ DJ Kit Complete and also guest rapper/ singer Billy Rose.  This standout group had cemented a name for themselves through their high energy shows and their hard hitting lyrics.  By 2008 they had released their first self titled EP.  Then due to personal reasons Mute MC moved away for a year. Out of a need to keep their creative energy flowing, Mikoen and P-Smurf formed a new group, this time with Smurf's sister Billy Rose as a full time member and beat maker Roleo on production/DJ.  And just like that Daily Meds was born.  The new group saw even more sucess and acclaim, but by late 2011 the boys were eager to get the old group back together and since then have wowed us all with their new album, touching on social and political topics that many shy away from.  Their fast paced punching lyrics are sure to bring on some changes to the system if only we can all listen and act.
Supported by: Soul Benefits, Jamima Jonez & SK, and Nookie
Tickets: $18.50
Doors 8pm



New Music Alert: As a little extra for everyone I'd like to bring you an exclusive, just released, brand new track! You know I wouldn't steer you wrong, so if you're looking for some intelligent raps from the best in Sydney's underground check the link below.

Read (Breathe-Fabolous Remix)- Skase a.k. featuring EaRelevant


Also look out for brand new PBX and Skase a.k. collaboration album TEN FIFTEEN POINT SIX coming early 2014......   skaseak.bandcamp.com

Not Necessarily New Music

Music suggestions for people who like good music...
...some albums I've been hitting repeat on in the last few months

Jon Connor- Unconscious State
Been bumping this album since it came out in July.  The features on here will have you saying, wait how come I don't know this guy yet?  Just to name a few.. Talib Kweli, Royce Da 5'9, Danny Brown, Smoke GZA.. But even with such a large number of guest spots none of them outshine him and they all seem to fit in nicely without seeming like too much.  Maybe you have heard of this talented rapper before from his previous mix tape "The People's Rapper" which is all Eminem beats.  He remakes each track in a unique and interesting way.  I especially like "Stan" which he does as a letter to Tupac, Biggie, and fellow Flint rapper MC Breed.  If you haven't heard of Jon Connor yet, a quick YouTube search will keep you busy with his videos for days. Jon Connor has versatility.  He picks a wide variety of beats and is able to rap in a number of different styles, even changing it up mid track, but the best thing about Connor is his passion.  You really believe that he's real and feel what he's saying.  There's a heavy southern influence on this album with a lot of trap- type beats.  Being from Flint, Michigan I think gives him a unique perspective in that he takes inspiration from all parts of the country- tying together east, west, and southern styles, not feeling tied down to represent for any one side of the typical hip hop feud.  Rather, Flint has it's own dark past that he can draw inspiration from.  With this his sophomore album and a great back catalogue of mixtapes to sift through already, I think we can expect that there's much more to come from this man.
My favourites: In My Sleep, Take the World, Rise Up

J. Cole - Friday Night Lights
Basically I can't get enough J. Cole these days.  I listed this mix tape as it's the one I play the most often right now, but I'm also spinning the Warm Up and Born Sinner regularly as well.  J. Cole is a superstar now, and he came upon it in all the right ways.  He's an inspiration to bedroom emcees and producers everywhere.  He did it all himself.  He made his own beats and spit lyrics on them that are not only clever but heartfelt and relateable.  And all this while going to university and graduating with honors.  His heard work and determination lead to him being discovered by Jay Z and signed to his label.  If you haven't heard much of his work yet I wouldn't suggest you start with his first album after being signed, "Cole World" as it's got a totally different feel to the rest of his work and it feels like he's trying to hard to make it commercially viable.  Start with Friday Night Lights and you'll be hooked on Cole for sure.  There's something for everyone here and it's real hip hop that's really easy to listen to.  As someone who is half black and half white he's the perfect one to bring these two sides of hip hop together.

My favourites:  Enchanted, Before I'm Gone, 2Face, Home For the Holidays

The Roots- How I Got Over
This is my go to album for just about any mood.  On a cold winter morning, it can brighten me up.  On a sunshiny day it can make me feel optimist and energized.  It can also match the rain and make me feel broodingly thoughtful.  There's not a lot of music that has this kind of versatility.  This is real bring people together type of music, even people that aren't particularly hip hop oriented to start with.  It ties together many genres of music.  It's hip hop with funk and soul and rock within it. Needless to say this is one of my favourite albums as a whole and I hear their live show is quite extraordinary as well, I'm excited to see these guys for the first time come December.

My favourites:  Walk Alone, Now or Never, The Day, Dear God 2.0

Theodore Kennedy-  Overcoming By Escape
One thing I look for above any other when listening to new music is passion.  The more the artist feels what they are saying then of course the more the listener will connect.  It probably helped that the first time I heard this was with the artist himself, it was the first time I met him, but when he showed us his music he was so incredibly over the top with passion that I couldn't help but be drawn in.  It wasn't to do with any sense of arrogance, in fact he was incredibly modest.  It's just that when he showed us his music he came alive in a way that was incredible to see.  He was so open and so happy to share with us and to see us responding positively.  The music really came to life for me and I can still hear that passion when I play it back now. You can tell that he doesn't make music for any reason but for himself, he does it to face his own demons, and you know he's been through a lot.  This is emotional hip hop, but it's edgy as well, angry.  This is zone out and watch the rain fall music. This is the kind of music that will get you into that deeply thoughtful, reflective zone where you face everything that you've been struggling with emotionally, get it all out by the end of the album and then feel so much better.  You'll have yourself all figured out by the time it's over.
This is the first EP from this artist, released just recently on an equally new local independent label, Newtown Research and Development.  He is only 20 yet he does his own beats and production as well as rhyming.  I feel a lot of potential in this one.

My favourites: Many Nights, Real Right, All Out

Bliss n Eso- Circus In the Sky
If you know me at all then you know I'm a hardcore Bliss n Eso fan.  They helped me to get through one of the hardest times of my life, and it wasn't just their music.  These guys are creatively inspirational and genuinely good people.  Just meeting them left me reminded that art is powerful and there are people in this world that not only want to change it but will.  And it's because I believe in them so much that I have to say this album was a bit disappointing.  Of course the production is beautiful and the beats are epic, but I guess what I'm looking for from them is something more revolutionary.  More songs in the line of "Addicted" and "The Seas Is Rising" but more.  As the top Australian hip hop artists in the game, it's their duty to bring this movement forward.  This album seems to be directed toward a much younger audience, and while it is important to teach kids and show them the way, it's also important to make sure there's something in there for the older fans as well. We're looking for something different, not just clever word play, but world changing lyrics.  The new production sounds amazing, but a couple tracks in their old, grittier style wouldn't go astray either.  All that being said it's still one of the best albums to come out of the country this year, it's just not quite where I know they could be. You know a great idea for these guys would be an OutKast Speakerboxxx/ The Love Below split, two solo albums would give us some great insight.

My favourites: I Am Somebody, Pale Blue Dot, Life's Midnight


                                  Link Me!
Jon Connor - watch this video
J. Cole - preforming with Eminem on Australian tour in February - tickets
The Roots - December 28 Hordern Pavillion, Sydney tickets
Theodore Kennedy- download the EP for free
Bliss n Eso

That's it for now, but stay cool, cool cats! More to come.
Love you all.

Who is Astronautalis?

.... He might be your new favourite rapper... 

Guest blogger: Ren Butler
Check out her other work here


“After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.”  - Aldous Huxley 


This is a little piece about a guy doing some things inexpressibly unique, and winning over audiences left and right. Astronautalis is a wandering storyteller with an affinity for paying homage to whiskey, history, and science. If you’re looking for your more ‘boom bap’ kind of hip hop, he’s not your guy. If you want to hear some incredibly artfully crafted rhymes about all manner of fact and fiction, I’d highly suggest you check out some of his tracks, such as the one below!

For mobile version: videos displaying incorrectly, check these links:
The Wordsmith and his Sons

And/or
This is Our Science

It only takes a few seconds of the first track of his latest album, This Is Our Science, to clearly hear that this man pulses creativity through his veins where most only have mere oxygen. Though painstakingly well crafted, this album is nothing if not personal. But what about all those history and science references, you say? Somehow I genuinely believe he has some kind of personal connection to the stories of his forefathers and some badass old scientists. Just watch any clip of his live show and you’ll see. This latest album has shades of his past sound but if there’s one thing to expect from Astronautalis, it’s that no two tracks (let alone albums) will be similar. He toys with musical sensibilities and influences from all over the globe as well as genres. His sharp wit, fast tongue, and impeccably eclectic sampling tastes are sure to fill your ears with wonder. Not only can he create some insanely impressive tracks in a studio, you might be surprised to know that the energy he brings comes from years of almost non-stop touring. This guy has been A LOT of places. He’s played tiny clubs in Eastern European countries you’ve probably never even heard of! While being in a new city, sometimes country, every night would drain many people, it is the life that fuels Astronautalis’ creative fire. To really know the full extent of this guy’s ability you must witness a freestyle of his. There are plenty to partake of on youtube but there’s nothing like the real thing. When might he make it down to the land of Oz? More on that later.

I have to admit, I found him one of the least profound ways an artist can be discovered, wasting time on YouTube. The track he does with P.O.S. ‘Story of My LIfe’ came upon a playlist and I was hooked before it was over. I then spent most of the rest of that afternoon looking up tracks and videos of his. Where was this mysterious bard and when might I be so lucky as to cross paths? While I once lived only a few hours drive from his hometown, now I live on the other side of the planet. He currently resides in Minneapolis, MN. I thought for sure it would be years before I’d get the chance to see him live.  But then I discovered, there is talk of him making it down here as early as this summer!

My excitement of this news was quickly followed with the realization that it’s really difficult for an indie act to book a solid tour from overseas. This is where he needs your help!!  Post your best photo and video invitations for Astronautalis to come and perform in your town on the facebook page listed below or tweet us the link and we will make sure he sees each and every entry personally!  Every entry will make a difference as it will help Astronautalis to book his shows in the places where he has the most support.  So get to it! Oh and before I forget… the person with the most creative entry is up to win a VERY SPECIAL prize indeed.  It’s kind of a secret.. but I can’t wait to tell you! The winner will get to partake in a personal video
chat with the man Astronautalis himself! And since you know he’s a dope freestyler, of course this little chat will include a personal freestyle session just for you based on topics of your choice.  And all this will be just a sample of what you will experience when you finally make it to one of his live shows.  While there are no guarantees about which shows will be played in the future, this is a guy that follows the love so the more people that enter from your town, the better chance he will be able to book a  gig there.  It’s that simple! So help him help you.  If you never ask, he will never know and may just pass you by...





Learn more about the Bring Astronautalis to Australia competition by liking our Facebook page!
Also on Twitter @AstroDownUnda

#AstroDownUnda on Instagram


Learn more about Astronautalis himself here:
Soundcloud
Official website
Facebook

Upcoming Events October 2013

As we get the news that yet another hip hop event in Australia has been cancelled...Rap City ....as well as Australian hip hop festival Sprung not going forth in Melbourne.. we ask ourselves, is it becoming hard to find our daily/ weekly/ monthly dose of LIVE hip hop? 

Well I'm here to tell you, fear not! The next month Sydney is chock full of hip hop goodness!! Plan your calendar around these gems...

decisions, decisions...

October 4   Mantra- Annandale Hotel    Mantra's third album kicks off with a bang! Telling Scenes touches on some deep emotional issues. And as always this emcee is a top story teller. I've lost touch with Mantra over the three years in between his last album and now. But I'm excited to rekindle this relationship. This is intelligent hip hop with a feel good vibe. I'm excited!
Tickets $18.40
Doors 8pm

Mind Over Matter- Spectrum, Darlinghurst
With this being their first national tour show in over 2 years, “Somebody's Love” tour celebrates the release of their third album. I've never seen them myself but I hear they are really fun live and kinda funny if their you tube videos are anything to go by. Or at least funny looking.. something like that. Supported by P Smurf and Black Magic
Tickets $11.73
Doors 8pm
facebook event

Thundamentals- Carmen's Nightclub, Miranda

Thundamentals being mental

Busy working on their personal side projects and writing material for their new album, the Thundakats haven't been all together on stage for almost a year. Touring for their new single "Smiles Don't Lie" they kind of cheated us out of Sydney show by playing at FBi's 10th Anniversary Party and then a mid- week Bondi show. But with supports like Loose Change, Elemont, and Bay Side Wreckers, it might be worth the trek south. This is still part of Sydney after all.
tickets $21.95
facebook event
Doors 8pm

Spit Syndicate- Hotel Gearin, Katoomba
On the road for their "Money Over Bullshit" tour, celebrating the release of their third album, “Sunday Gentlemen” back in February. Any excuse for a party, really. These boys are on a massive tour of the country and when they do it they do it hard. I think the name is actually supposed to be ironic, cause I wouldn't really call any of them gentlemen. But they definitely bring a good time. Their big Sydney show isn't till November 2^nd at the Hi Fi bar but if you have clashes that night it wouldn't be a bad idea to catch them in the more intimate Katoomba venue.
Tickets $18.90
facebook event

October 5th    Bagels, Beers, and Beats- Helm Bar and Bistro, Central
If you're in the city on a glorious Saturday afternoon like this one is sure to be and you're up for something a bit different, or if you're a native New Yorker like me and you're just dying for a real bagel, check out this Brooklyn inspired spring block party. Along with bagels done right (heavy on the cream cheese) you can try Brooklyn Lager, a Brooklyn inspired cocktail, or any of whatever kind of alcohol gets you going. On the entertainment tip, DJ and MC Sam Dynamite will be spinning some of your favourite Brooklyn beats and there will be live art to boot! Sounds like a great afternoon spent to me!
Event runs from 12-4pm
Tickets $25  include two bagels and two beers or one cocktail + entertainment

October 6
Mind Over Matter- Batemans Bay
If you miss MOM in Sydney over the weekend, why not plan a trip south over the long weekend and catch them in on of the most beautiful parts of the country. Supported by Stik'move, Azza D and Knott Enuff
Tickets $10 presale/ $15 at the door
facebook event

October 9th & 23rd
Hip Hop Cinema & Hip Hop Karaoke- Flinders Hotel, Surry Hills
Fortnightly hip hop fun night. Can't wait for the weekend? Need a place to chill out with cool like minded people mid week? Good music, good people, classic hip hop inspired films and docos, and don't forget the popcorn. All free! Films shown 7-9 during happy hour, karaoke starts after that.
Free event!
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October 10th
Thursday Night Hip Hop- Bar Brooklyn, Manly

You know how you are constantly taking the ferry north week after week to attend all those dope hip hop

State Advanced

shows in Manly?  Yeah... me either.  In fact, I'm pretty sure I've never even been to one hip hop night in Manly, but I do know a lot of people who live in Manly who make their way out to the city week after week.  Well that's all about the change.  State Advanced is all set up to host a weekly hip hop night the first one being this night. With DJ Prolifik (Bustacap, Broken Thought Theory, High Noon) on the turn tables this will certainly be a night that you don't want to miss, whether you're a local or you have to make the trek from the city.  Who knows what local talent will be up in the coming weeks, so keep this one in your sights.
Free event!
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The Roots- Hordern Pavillion
This is just a reminder to get your tickets for this incredible night which is happening on 27^th December!!
I don't want you to miss out!Tickets $89.80 On Sale at 9am
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Speech Therapy 2- Work-Shop, Ultimo
This isn't your typical hip hop set.  This is 3 top Sydney emcees Mute (Reverse Polarities), Rapaport (Loose Change), and the Tongue in a poetry slam type format.  They will be doing freestyles, raps, and spoken word.  So come check out Big Village X Elefant Traks for something a bit out of the ordinary.
Strictly Limited Capacity!
Tickets- $20
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October 17th
Sketch the Rhyme- The Basement, Circular Quay
If you haven't seen it yet, you're in for a treat.  This gameshow type hip hop fun experience breaks the mold in all categories.  It combines live art, live beats, and freestyle rapping into friendly hip hop games enjoyed by young and old alike.  These emcees have to be quick witted to succeed but rather than a battle format where they are pitted against each other, the friendly competition here sees them working together more to move the storyline along. This is something that has to be seen to be believed. This time featuring guest emcees Joe New and EaRelevant.
Tickets $18 presale/ $22 at the door
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BV Brew

October 18th Big Village Brew- Factory Theatre, Marrickville
As if they cool factor wasn't through the roof already, this local Sydney independent label, bursting with talent, has revealed they have another trick up their sleeve, and it's cool refreshing and tasty! Come join the party and get toasty on their new brew!
tickets $10 prepaid, $15 on the door
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Katchafire- Big Top, Luna Park
If you're feeling some roots raggae tunes with an R&B and funk tip, then get your dance on with this hot New Zealand act. Upgraded to the big top at Luna Park due to massive demand, this group is known world-wide, especially in the California roots scene. So if you're feeling something a bit more funky with a bit of hip hop thrown in check this group out for sure.
Tickets $51
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Sticky Fingers- Manning Bar, Sydney University
I've never seen these guys before but I hear that seeing these Newtown locals preform is a show that is not-to-be-missed. And with a video like the one below I would tend to agree.
Tickets- $18.90
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October 19th      West Coast Icons Tour- The Hi Fi
DJ Quik and Kurupt are coming together to tour Australia for the first time. Hitting both Sydney and Melbourne, these legends are two of the West Coasts most influential and recognizable figures. If you had any doubt about that last claim, realize that Quik has recently been named “The Number 1 West Coast producer in the history of hip hop” ahead of even Dr. Dre. Kurupt is a long term collaborator of Quik and a main figure of Death Row Records (one half of The Dogg Pound). This pair is set to bring the house down, and you wouldn't want to be the one that missed out. This is a real testament to hip hop history and we're lucky to see this collaboration brought to life in Australia.
Tickets $75.50 / VIP 105.50
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True Vibenation

True VibeNation- The Basement, Circular Quay With a funky reggae- hip hop feel, this group has always been a fan of live instruments, and live experimentation! As always they will be bringing their horn section, and for one night only they will be joined by Brisbane 9- piece brass band, Bullhorn for one special night at this iconic Sydney venue.         Tickets $19.80            facebook event
Doors 730pm

Mr. Ruckman- Oxford Arts Factory basement
He's been tearing emcees apart in battles as Kade MC for nearly a decade, he's back and better than ever with a new name and a new attitude.  Now that he's more than proven his abilities, he sits comfortably in a position where he can express himself creatively without giving too much thought to how he will be perceived in the community.  He's cocky enough to be comfortable in his own freakishly tall body and insane/ genius head space.  Don't miss this class act as it's his last show before he ships off to Melbourne.
Free Entry!
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October 25th    
 Mr Grevis- Brighton Up Bar, Darlinghurst
Western Australian emcee Mr Grevis, with Drapht as his mentor, has just released his second album and is set to start his first national tour. This may be your chance to catch him first in a small limited capacity venue. Who knows you might even get a peek at local singing sensation and heart breaker, Joyride, while you're there for their song “So Beautiful.” I haven't heard much from this guy yet, but he's worth a peek.
Tickets $12.00
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November 1st    
 Thundamentals- Baroque Bar at Carrington Hotel, Katoomba
This is the last show on the tour for these boys, and though I'm sure we'll see much more of them over the summer (notably at Falls Festival dates this year) this is a great time to check them out. These boys always put on an amazing show with a lot of love and good vibes, they are my top Sydney pick and with the hometown love behind them, what could go wrong? I mean aside from Katoomba police out in force like last year...
Tickets $23.50
facebookevent

November 2nd
L-FRESH the LION- Spectrum, Darlinghurst

Off the success of the debut album and the single "One"getting into rotation on Triple J, it's time to bring the whole band on the road for the first time! And to do this they really need your help. L-FRESH the LION has set up a Pozible campaign which you can donate to, to help cover their expenses. Because being in a musical group isn't about making money after all, it's about spreading the love and sharing the good vibes. If you want to support a good cause, then help this intelligent and socially aware group of people spread their music and love so that they can touch a wider community in Australia. You might even be handsomely rewarded for your goodwill. Then head to the show, nod your head and become one with everyone in the room while you listen to this conscious H.I.P. H.O.P. This Sydney show is bound to be a special one, with support act Reverse Polarities just announced! In my opinion couldn't ask for a better combo of artists.
Pozible
Tickets $10
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Doors 8pm

Spit Sydnicate- Hi Fi Bar
As I mentioned already this is the big hometown show for these boys Money Over Bullshit tour. If you're up for a big party that will most likely include all of the One Day team then get in early cause this will be a sell out for sure.
Tickets $22.40
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King Amongst Many

Review: Horrorshow "King Amongst Many" album

Released: 2 August 2013                
Elefant Traks


I have to admit right now, on my first listen, I didn't "get it".  Although I enjoyed Horrorshow's first two albums immensely, I have since moved on.  The first couple listens I skipped through the majority of the songs thinking Horrorshow had disappointed me by only providing more of the same, emotional and soft hip hop that doesn't push any boundaries or take a stance on anything too controversial.  But at a second glance I realised that I was looking at it the wrong way.

It wasn't until a very late night walk with the dog down near Blackwattle Bay with the air thick, damp and heavy as it is before the rain, my quiet and reflective mood finally latched onto the music and the words. What was revealed to me was something beautiful, dense and meaningful.  The meaning behind the words finally stood out to me as though I was stepping out of the fog, and the music provided the perfect backdrop for them to whirl around within.  So what I'm saying is don't set this album aside if at first you're not in the mood to embrace it, cause it definitely has the potential to come back and surprise you.

This is not a lighthearted album.  This is a deeply pensive, listen alone in your room with the lights off type album.  Not that there aren't tracks would work in a concert setting, but it's not dancing music. This is sway on your feet with your lighters in the air music.  This is the type of music that will make us take a collective breath and just listen, which I think holds much more power than the type that we want to cheers beers to. This isn't The Party Life, in fact there's not one party track here.  This is exactly the type of music that works for Horrorshow. This is In My Haze type music.

While leaving the party songs and more festival orientated songs alone, you would think that the JJJ crowd might not take to it as readily, but the doesn't seem to be the case at all as Horrorshow fans and new fans alike have seen the album debut at #2 on the ARIA charts. Like it or hate it, it's refreshing to see that this album didn't have to  follow the well defined formula in order to achieve success.  In fact, from the first album right on through to this one, Horrorshow duo never seem to be making music for anyone else at all, simply combining beats that sounds pleasing to them with lyrics that allow the emcee to express to us the inner workings of his mind.

That being said, is it on par with the best beat makers in the world? Not by a long shot. Are the lyrics revolutionary and showing us a brand new perspective? Not for the most part.  But these two are definitely growing as artists and their music has a place in the Australian music scene and in worldwide hip hop. Though it's not everyone's cup of tea, in terms of emotional content this album is ace.

The first listen we had of this new material was during the Hilltop Hoods "Speaking in Tongues" tour.  Dead Star Shine was a chilling anthem that made us all stop dead, so to speak.  This was a year before the album came out and it had a great response.  However the chorus on the finished version leaves much to be desired.  I think the effect over Solo's voice lessens the emotion, to where it sounds boring and dull.  And that carries on through most of the chorus' on the album.  I think as a rule, Solo could work on the expressiveness of his voice, both in singing and in rapping.  Though the evenness works one one level, it does make all the songs sound far too similar.  And though I love Adit's knack for picking samples, the beats could use more variety as well. Having a few songs with more of an edge to them and a harder hitting beat would surprise us and keep us interested.

The song that stood out to me first was Down The Line.  This is story telling at it's best.  So emotional it nearly made me cry although it's not a particularly sad.  Through a story about his ancestry, Solo tells us the importance of family, something that speaks to everyone universally.  This is the only track with a female singer as well, Sarah Corry, and possibly the only song that really has the chorus it deserves.  The recording of his grandmother at the end is beautiful.

I think the album overall has a few too many guest spots and Suffa could have been cut out for me.  I don't think he adds anything to the track he is on called On The One Hand and in fact I think he draws attention away from Grieves who is the first international guest that Horrorshow have welcomed to share in their art. They have chosen well here; Grieves and Solo have a similar hip hop style in that their songs are deeply personal and emotional.  I want to like this track the best because it's Grieves but in truth it bores me a little.  I was expecting more of a standout on this one, but whatever that sample is that comes in as the outro of this song, I love that better than the rest of the track.  A beat more like that would have excited me more.  Not to worry though, I think Grieves and Horrorshow could have a beautiful thing going and I definitely wouldn't mind seeing a further collab if this kid ever makes it out to Australia.  (If you want to know more about Grieves check my links at the bottom and stay tuned.)

Surprisingly out of the whole album the song that turned me off the most is the first single.  This is actually what kept me away from the album a long time.  I don't think it has the right effect, it doesn't catch you right away and it is not memorable.  A terrible choice in my opinion.  All it does is remind me that we're ready to see something different from these guys.

The absolute best and most important song on the album, and the one that makes the listening all worth while is Own Backyard which features newly signed Elefant Traks artist, Jimblah.  This track tells of a young white male's perspective of racism in Australia, how he goes from simply believing what he was taught in school to discovering the truth of Australia's bloody past for himself.  Then Jimblah comes forward to tell a tale which we never see in Australian hip hop.  A black perspective of continued racism in this country.   Stunningly poignant, the harrowing last line reminds us, "They tried to wipe us off of the face of the earth dude, need proof? Look around you."


 More than a lyricist who throws out catchy puns and one liners, Solo is a poet spinning a story that makes you feel you are in that moment with him if you listen closely enough, and that's something I hold  highly.  Honesty as well is a trait that is not optional for me, he's certainly not trying to represent anything that he is not, the downfall of many of the more popular hip hop artists.

Horrorshow is on tour! 
Their next few dates are:

TONIGHT
Thu 19 Sep
ANU Bar
Canberra

Fri 20 Sep *
Metro Theatre
Sydney

Sat 21 Sep *
Sprung Festival
Brisbane

Thu 26 Sep
Corner Hotel
Melbourne

*all ages
For a full list of tour dates and ticketing information click here

Link me up
Elefant Traks
Horrorshow official site / Facebook page
Jimblah official site / Facebook page
Grieves official site / Facebook page

Quick, reverse the polarity in the defibrillator!

Me: Kathy, the engine is overheating, the breaks won't work, we're spinning out of control and heading straight for the river!

Kathy: oh and also we just ran out of vodka...

Me: If we don't make it back to the Hordern Pavilion in time Hillary Duff will take the stage and ruin hip hop forever. We have to get back and stop her!

Kathy: what the fuck?

Me: I know it's crazy.

Kathy: If only we had a way out of this mess that was simple yet sounded scientific enough that no one would question our authority on it.

Together: Reverse the polarity!!

(Far away shot of a car exploding as it spins off a bridge. Two girls walk slowly towards the camera wearing blue sparkly spandex [superhero outfits] while fireworks go off behind them as the car hits the river. The taller one sips from a bottle.)

cue music: “Slider”

Me: well I didn't know that would happen. Good thing for those eject buttons.

Kathy: Good thing for more vodka

Together: Cheers!

Kathy: now what?

Me: train?  

Reverse Polarities: shaking up our ear holes and turning nonsense into magic since 2005

Also, making train rides less boring.

Although the name may make it sound like a bunch of scientific mumbo jumbo, what Reverse Polarities actually says is a lot more real than 99.99% of anything you've ever heard on the radio. Their philosophy is simple, do the opposite of what everyone else is doing. Flip the game over on it's head and just deliver the raw truth. They want to uncover the political issues, give the facts, and focus on life as they know it here in Australia. In essence just make their mark by challenging everyone and changing how they think.

Mute and Mikoen at Oxford Arts Factory

You could say that Reverse Polarities as a hip hop group, grew out of the western suburbs of Sydney. It started off simply as couple of guys getting together for drinks, who recorded poetry onto tape using half a headphone as a mic. Back in the early 90's decent recording equipment was scarce, at least for a group of youngsters. Rappers, Mikoen and Mute MC, who met at school way the hell out in the middle of no where (ie western suburbs of Sydney) may have originally worked on raps together out of boredom back in their school days, but the work that they put into it back then has really paid off.

The two of them didn't officially form the group until much later, choosing to work on several other hip hop related projects. It wasn't until Mute moved to Newtown in 2005 that things started to kick into gear for RP. Mute met beat maker Kit Complete and the two became inseparable, working with another friend Ludz on beats and rhymes, building their skills. Their youngest member, Psmurf was still finishing school at the time they had their first official gig at the Cat and Fiddle, which packed out the place. Hip hop in Australia was only just starting to get some credibility at that time thanks to groups like Hilltop Hoods, Muph and Plutonic, and Bliss n Eso. Reverse Polarities was proud to represent where they were from with all they had, focusing on issues relative to life in Australia, rather than trying to mimic American emcees.

Although the group has juggled around and swapped members in and out since it's inception, it is known now for its four permanent members: Mute MC, Mikoen, and Psmurf as rappers and Kit Complete on the beats. They rep the inner west and the western suburbs of Sydney and have been active in one form or another since 2005, minus a two year hiatus between 2009 and 2011.

Watching Reverse Polarities perform now, it's obvious that they all really respect and appreciate each other. And although your attention might first be drawn to the barefoot one bouncing around with the expressive face, you will soon see that there is no front-man to this group. Each member equally takes his turn in the spot light. They are all supportive of each other without the pretension of having to “be something” or project a certain image. I feel like when I see an RP set it's four artists coming together and just relaxing into themselves and letting each other do their own thing but with the backing that they need to help one another other shine. Everyone takes their turn in the spot light, they cover each other's mistakes and play to each other's strengths.

So where does Reverse Polarities end and Daily Meds begin? The whole thing can be a bit of head spin to figure out. Some members are shared between groups, and of course other members make “guest” appearances on each other's tracks. The beats and production are done differently in the two, with Roleo in Daily Meds and Kit Complete on Reverse Polarities. Daily Meds came into being at the time when RP was on hiatus.

Since they share members anyway, a Reverse Polarities and Daily Meds supergroup sounds like a terrific idea, but the reality of it is there are so many different projects going on simultaneously, it would be hard to coordinate, although they always have and will continue to swap members around like spit at a make out party... that's fam right there.

RP LIVE:

The way I look at it is Reverse Polarities gave them a taste, let them find the way onto the scene, and helped them define and develop who they are as artists, so that then when Daily Meds came along, they weren't starting from scratch anymore. They had a recipe that worked and this time there wouldn't be any burnt batches of brownies. Daily Meds was serious business and they have exploded onto the scene in the last few years and become a raging success with fans all over the country. RP now has taken a back step to this, but with the group back together and going strong again, what I see it as, is an outlet for the boys to relax again. They don't have to prove anything to anyone, and they are humbled by being reminded of where they have come from. It's a treat for old and new fans alike to see the comfortableness and refreshing attitude that comes out of a Reverse Polarities show. And this is no soft la-de-da party music either, it's in your face and tackling political issues head on, something that this scene needs desperately.

Drank, dance, rap...

It will be a busy year for RP as a group as well as all the members individually. You can look forward to an official Reverse Polarities album this year released through Big Village. Also Psmurf will be dropping his solo release VERY soon. Mick's mixtape will be out to offend young and old come April. Mute is working on a little something special with Daily Meds DJ, Roleo. But that's not all, he's also got a project called Mute Oblivion with a release in the near future. Kit Complete won't be outdone either, with his second solo release coming out this year as well.

Despite so many other projects happening, the RP group is back in full force. Their latest video project, “Invasion Day,” released in time for Australia Day this year perfectly demonstrates the hard political stance on an issue that's still very sensitive in Australian society. And true to their name they will flip the situation on its head. They won't just give you the watered down version of events, they aren't just some white kids from the suburbs rapping about how they hate their parents. They will serve you up the real issues in a way that won't be ignored, and you can make up your own mind but at least the facts are all there to be digested.

Check out the clip below:

“Reverse Polarities, you wouldn't want to challenge these emcee's mentalities...”

Big Village

Peace out people, stay cool.