In an effort to further explore the myriad and "Komplicated" musical tastes of the modern "post-Black" denizens of the world, we present Spin City, which will feature recommendations from some of the world’s finest DJs, Joining resident turntablist DJ Jedi, we're proud to present the musical musings of Brutha Gimel (also known as Gimel Hooper), a double threat who not only is well known for his skills on the wheels, but also as a spoken word artist of considerable renown and one of the co-founders of LA's long-running venue Da Poetry Lounge. We now present Gimel's favorites for this week …
- "Hustle Off," Oddisee
Available in this week's #musicmonday column
Yo! I really think Oddisee is the underground version of Kanye. He hits you off with ill thought out bars. He constructs soulful beats that keep ya head nodding and you can tell he's a fan and student of hip hop. This is not the first time I've recommended a joint from Oddisee. You might as well look him up for real, so the next time you can be like, "yeah, Gimel. We know."
- "PDA," Frank Ocean
Here's a uptempo dance selection from LA's own soul child. Frank Ocean has got to be one of the most celebrated mix tape artists out. I know his album is coming soon and "PDA" may be on it. I'd have to do more research to find out but let's face it, I'm not a journalist. In the meanwhile get your PDA on without collecting a fine from "Johnny Law."
- "212," Azealia Banks
First available in the October 31, 2011 #musicmonday column
I've always believed that in order for women to make an impact in hip hop they have to appeal to men and women without losing their femininity. We like to see our female emcees give us something men can't. Azealia Banks does just that. This Harlem born lyricist jumps outside of the trap music club vibe and gets Euro/Funk/Eclectic. I might have just made up something, but I bet you get it. Plus she has nice smile which makes her raunchiness more tasteful. Ha!
- "Californication," David Banner feat. Snoop, Game, Ras Kass, Nipsey Hustle, Kree
Available in this week's #musicmonday column
When you go west coast on 'em, you gotta get Uncle Snoop involved. This piece doesn't have all of the guys rapping on it. In fact, you may have to listen closely to hear which voice is speaking in this epic story about a guy from Mississippi tells of his adventure. I know he ain't the first cat to come to visit LA on vacation and leave on probation.
- "Spend The Day," Obie Trice feat. Drey Skonie
First available in the March 5, 2012 #musicmonday column
Now we all love a good hip hop serenade. Let's be honest there really aren't enough rappers talking to the ladies on some good lovin' ish. Well, this ain't that either, but it is Obie's macho version of getting it on. I mean he just wants her to spend a day with him while they go shopping and get freaky. Not necessarily in that order. Haha.
In addition to checking out Brutha Gimel out tonight at Da Poetry Lounge, here's where else you can find this talented troubadour.
Barring unforeseen challenges, Brutha Gimel's Spin City should be waiting for you, right here on Komplicated.com, every Tuesday afternoon.
[Source: Brutha Gimel]