Smooth Jams for the Week

Dear Trespassers,

This week we look at Kid Confucius’ latest, insanely infectious offering, and share our addiction with N’fa’s latest project (formerly known as Nfamas from 1200 Techniques). Our overseas album goes to the supremely talented Common who combines his unmistakable brand of rap/hip hop with a more dance-floor friendly twist, and our international single of the week is singer/songwriter Katie Herzig’s latest release, Hologram.

So without further ado – here are my music picks for the week

Happy listening!

Dee xx

Local CD on high rotation; Kid Confucius - The Let Go

The Let Go is the third studio album by the energetic eight piece Sydney Band, Kid Confucius. Their infectious new sound, a unique marriage of dirty rock and soul, is fast becoming a favourite of 09. Straight away you are aware that Kid C’s latest offering is not attempting to take themselves too seriously, as evidenced by their title track, The Let Go, about kissing a parking officer on the lips while being issued a ticket. Don’t get me wrong, there is no compromise on quality – each of the 12 infectious tracks offer slick, perfectly executed slices of cool. Kid C has definitely evolved; their new sound includes guitars up front, drums that are roomy and dirty, distorted horns, unbridled vocals and killer harmonies that just work. I urge you all, get your hands on this CD, and furthermore, go see them live – positively electric. Tracks to listen out for:

Darling I Need Ya
Good Luck
Caroline
Big Black Cloud

Local Single on high rotation; N’fa – Crossfire ft Nat Pa’a'apa of Blue King Brown

Originally known as Nfamas from 1200 Techniques, N’fa (aka No Fixed Abode) changed his name and pursued a hip hop solo career. His latest offering is the incredibly addictive single Crossfire, featuring Natalie Pa’a'apa from Blue King Brown. Love it for its:

Bass laden beats
Smooth melodic background vocals of Natalie Pa’a'apa

Image courtesy of N’Fa’s Myspace

International CD on high rotation; Common - Universal Mind Control

The all time rap great has released his 8^th LP, Universal Mind Control. On the making of the album, our face deep thinker, Common wanted to change things up slightly and create music for the summer time. It is a fresh fusion of pop and his signature intellectual hip hop rhymes. He calls upon friends, The Neptunes who are responsible for most of the producing and help shape this sexed-up track-list. Along with The Neptunes are Kanye West, Cee Lo and Mr DJ who all provide beats that both nod to hip hop in the past and look to the future. There are still the unmistakeably preachy lyrics, frequent sampling and heavy beats with his typical arrogant swagger. However I believe this album will win over new fans and hopefully delight the old devotees. Tracks to listen out for:

Universal Mind Control
Punch Drunk Love ft Kanye West
Gladiator
Make My Day ft Cee Lo
Changes – a track penned for his fellow Chicagoan, Barack Obama.

International Single on high rotation; Katie Herzig - Hologram

Think what the love child of Norah Jones and KT Tunstall would sound like and you are close to American singer/song writer Katie Herzig. Then, add a mixture of jazz, folk, pop, and classic rock. We love it because of it’s upbeat percussion, highly addictive chorus and enduring subject matter. You know, that old chestnut, wanting what you cant have.

Gigs to Catch