LISTEN: Woodgrain Grip - "Chemistry"

Let's get the obvious stuff out of the way first. As you read this you may still be reeling from the idea of Donald J. Trump becoming President-Elect. It's trippy to be sure but trouble don't last always.

Don't believe me?

I understand it sounds like an empty sentiment but there are other things to occupy your consciousness.

For example, good ass music. It's been proven time and again that music has a certain power in our life. It can alter moods without effort.

This brings me to New GA's Woodgrain Grip.

On my usual perusal of Facebook I stumbled across a status of his [Grip's] asking for five minutes of your time to check out his latest track "Chemistry". I saw this and figured that instead of wasting those three hundred seconds on some other pursuit I could give a listen.

I was not disappointed.

"Chemistry" is a smooth track that gives the immediate vibe of a dapper gentleman spitting the most eloquent game to the beauty sitting shotgun as his hand grips (no pun intended) her thigh. Grip delivers this one with his unique flow and the ever present Southern drawl of one Georgia born.

For the expanse of five minutes Grip evokes the spirit of Outkast's cool wordplay and Big K.R.I.T.'s casual confidence as his vocals dance over exquisite production and a well used female vocal on the hook that bears a sample of 8Ball & MJG's "Space Age Pimping". Grip puts forth a stellar flow here, one that speaks of all the things he'll do to please her once the Cadillac floats towards its destination. Pure chemistry to follow, really.

A few favorite lines include:

"Hey baby, hop off in this 'Lac of mine/Because I just washed this bitch up/And having you in it would be the finishing touch..."

"Surround sound around us/To drown out reality/When we get to where we're going/I'll turn that pussy to a casualty..."

This track is meant to be played to set the mood between you and your lady. Just one drop of this will really get the chemistry going and nothing else will matter.

Listen to it here: Woodgrain Grip - Chemistry

The Steady Come Up...

The best decision I’ve ever made is to put my support and patronage behind the movement known as #NewGA. It’s one of those choices that keeps paying dividends.

Thus far I’ve heard the soulful sounds of India Catrice as her voice dances over the maestro and the music.

I am well acquainted with Barz Bamu and TrailBlazzor Muzik, that amazing duo of brethren known as the Fly Mind Poets. On (or rather in) everything they bring a higher prospective and a depth that cannot be matched by many indie or mainstream artists. Even as I write this I’m humming “Scholarship Problems” and “Sink In”.

I got acquainted with the sounds and delivery of South Johansson, making sure that I first shamed the devil immediately after I told the truth.

And then there is the ever trill, ever honest, ever amazing iBeast. Since the release of Pimp Said So: The 1^st Supper, I have been an avid listener. Each project that comes from him [iBeast] has been better than the one before it, a feat not many artists can claim. Not only can iBeast claim it, he can revel in it. You can see the advancement and the addition of more and more to his tool chest.

This leads us to Steady Comin’ Up, the first album. This one is unique in the sense that it’s a purchase only album. Having purchased some paraphernalia in the form of a dope and truly comfortable hoodie emblazoned with the emblem associated with the album. Based purely on the merchandise I knew I was in for something utterly special.

And I wasn’t not disappointed.  

I preface this review by saying this overview of the album took me a month to get finished with. A small part of this was my hectic schedule. The biggest part of this was that I was riding with the music in order to take in this project.

Steady Comin’ Up is a cohesive set of music. I didn’t get the deluxe edition with the bonus track but I did study over the twelve tracks and singled out a few of my favorites. So let us get into them.

“Out The Mudd” strikes me first with the horn heavy production. The trumpet plays like a refrain as iBeast begins his swanging over the beat. Something in his delivery and words is entrancing, telling a better story than a wordsmith such as myself ever could.

“32oz” is probably one of my favorites on the whole album. The intro of the track draws you in instantly, making your body move (particularly a nodding of the head) whether you were ready for it or not. This one achieves the perfect balance between party track and great riding music. Being that I’ve done both to this one I am an expert on it. T-Polk comes through on an equally infectious verse that sets this one apart from anything else I’ve heard in a minute. One thing I can say is that it has that perfect Texas vibe.

“I’d Rather Be Hawg’n” feels like an honest heart to heart over decidedly great production. Not a lot of artists can pull that off but then again, iBeast isn’t like a lot of artists. The message or rather the theme of this one is a diatribe against fake niggas. Here he [iBeast] would rather ‘hawg’n’ than to bothered with any of the bullshit.

A surprise favorite for me was “Vogue Tires”. Before this project I had never heard any of Aniyla’s vocals.

And now?

I’m a fan. The track starts out with what sounds like a harp or some serene sounding stringed instrumentation and the angelic voice of Aniyla on the hook. iBeast plays counterpoint with his timbre and his unique delivery. This is the epitome of the riding song. I remember having my headphones as I rode home from work, this track cranked up. In a moment of listening I-20 disappeared and there was only the ride.

I’d also suggest “Fast Fwd” featuring the ever amazing South Johansson as well as “Yea Whatever” with an appearance by India Catrice.

Steady Comin’ Up. Yeah, the name first perfectly… 

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Rise Up, A 'Phoenix' Story

Rise up.

Immediately you'd think of the Atlanta Falcons since the team has taken the two words as their slogan of sorts. Although they are off to a good start after Week 1, this article isn't about them. Maybe if they win the division we'll revisit them.

Another set of people heard that and thought of Rocky III and Survivor classic (and perennial workout motivation track) "Eye Of The Tiger". Clubber Lang and iconic films notwithstanding, that isn't the subject of this article either.

The subject is twofold.

First the title refers to Chicago born and HBCU educated producer Boyce. His sound is something amazing that one doesn't simply come across on the daily.

Secondly I speak of the labor of love that he [Boyce] has and/or will be presenting to the world in due time. I speak of Boyce's production EP Phoenix.

If you know anything about mythology you know that the Phoenix is the symbol of immortality, rebirth, and the circle of life. It lives, dies, and is reborn. One could go as far as to say it rises up, hence the title.

Phoenix is, putting it mildly, a great EP. Within the expanse of seven (7) tracks we are given much to feast on musically. By his own admission he is a 'Chicago born Caribbean boy' and this EP shows those roots plainly and perfectly. To the avid listener with a discerning ear notes of many genres can be heard such as soda, hip-hop, R & B, and house.

Because Phoenix is only seven tracks I will give you my three (3) favorites.

"Enana" is an instant favorite of mine. It gets you moving with little to no effort, almost as if putting your body into a rhythmic and hypnotized state. Assisted on production by Marq Raymond this house track has that sound locked down with heavy bass influences you'd expect from the best of hip-hop tracks. The juxtaposition here is flawlessly done.

"Thrones" had me lost immediately. As it began I was quietly wondering when that female voice was going to say, "Mike Will Made It..." As much of a fan as I am of Mike Will Made It, the comparison is high praise. This track is the club. It's the South. It's good ass, booty shaking hip-hop. Hearing it transports me back to my freshman year at Morehouse and the parties full of beautiful women, their perfect curves in glorious motion. Boyce has captured a moment and is giving it to use in the 3:12 running time. Quite gracious of him.

Finally, my most favorite.

"Arrival".

This one is theatrical, epic even. It has so many faces, some many facets that you can never really see it the same way twice. You can heard Caribbean vibes as clearly as you are reading these words. There is a thrumming of an electric guitar adding to the menagerie. The drums, pure hip-hop. The vocals of what's assume is some druid choir enters the fray. All of this over a dark and looming presence throughout. Somehow the track becomes almost sentient, taking on a life of its own. That is amazing when you think about it.

Go ahead, think about it.

Boyce rises here on this EP, showing us how great production and beautiful art are reborn. I can't wait to see what he does next.

Interview - Boyce

Once again I am bringing you a great interview with another talented individual. Today I am speaking with Myzil Boyce, Jr., also known as producer extraordinaire Boyce. We talk about music in his life, the future, Phoenix, and a few other things.

LUCIUS: First things first. I want to thank you for doing this interview with me, taking time out of your schedule to talk to me. 

BOYCE: Anytime, man. I’m pleased to take the time out to speak with you. Other than job interviews, this is my first time being interviewed in my life.

LUCIUS: How is your 2015 looking thus far? What are looking towards in the new year? 

BOYCE: 2015 has been an amazing year. I was fortunate to engage in a one year MBA program at HULT International Business School and it provided me with the opportunity to travel the world while gaining an advanced education. If I had to summarize the year in one word it would be “culture.” But most importantly, this year provided the time to concentrate on my health-spiritually, physically and mentally. It’s been a year of healing and immense growth. Being isolated from my comfort zone made me stop lying to myself in every aspect of life. As far as 2015 and beyond is concerned, I’m looking to relocate from my home city of Chicago. I want to live in Miami or Los Angeles going forward so my priority is there. Looking for a corporate job as well, to help get me back on my feet and generate some cash flow. However, I plan on continuing my education; music education. And also, learning a new language. I didn’t realize how important it is to speak another language until I left America.

LUCIUS: What got you started producing? 

BOYCE: I come from a music/engineering-based family. My entire life has revolved around music. My father is an electrical engineer by trade, sound engineer by specialty. From as long as I can remember, I remember being over a DJ setup and sound system in the living rooms of my houses. Also as a youth, I played classical piano for about 8 years of my life. I played in multiple competitions and recitals. Unfortunately, I stopped playing piano around twelve to thirteen years old. What started my reemergence in music producing is after I left my job in corporate America on February 17, 2014. It was a grueling, demanding and unsatisfying four years of my life in the corporate world straight out of matriculation at Clark Atlanta University. One day while bored watching the NBA, I started making the song Phoenix on my iphone Garageband. It was garbage at first. (laughs) Sounded like shit. But that song was a sort of manifesto what would be my changing life. Over time and with dedication, I ended up making the skeletons remainder of the song on my production EP.

LUCIUS: How long have you been doing it for? 

BOYCE: Technically I been making music forever. I always made songs as a kid while bored practicing piano. Also, I was known for making the best mixtapes in high school. You wanted a mix, you came to me. But to give you a straight answer, about eighteen months now.

LUCIUS: Congratulations on Phoenix. I know the history of the mythical bird as I am sure you do. What made you title it thusly? 

BOYCE: Exactly what the bird represents; transformation, growth, rebirth, strength and invincibility. This EP represents my dedication to self and investment into my spiritual needs in this world. You have to feed your passions and invest in yourself in this life. You can’t give your time to these people that have no regards for your well-being without supplementing your own happiness.

LUCIUS: Now I say project because I'm unsure of what you would rather it be called. EP, mixtape, LP. What would you classify it as? 

BOYCE: It’s a production EP. Shout out to Pete Rock for making this a trend.

LUCIUS: Via Facebook you and I have had a few passing conversations about music and the like. What type(s) of music inspired you as you put Phoenix together? 

BOYCE: Well I’m a Chicago born Caribbean boy. Automatically that means house, soca, reggae, hip-hop, R&B, and interestingly enough reggaeton. (laughs) Reggaeton is my shit. I also have a affinity for neo-soul music. Man, I just need to be able to FEEL the music. I hate anything commercial though. Unless I'm in the club.

LUCIUS: So take me through the creative process you use as a producer. Is there a certain something that you look for from each track? 

BOYCE: Because I still consider myself a novice in production, I don’t really have a certain process. Every song I made so far in life is based off a certain emotion I’m feeling at the time. But I plan on getting more technically sound at my craft and attending production school to do so. I just want to FEEL my songs. If I don’t feel it, I start over.

LUCIUS: Not to give too much away before the release date but what can people listening expect from you and Phoenix? 

BOYCE: You can expect a different sound I hope. My music is very influenced by many different musical genres. People ask me what genre I make, and I don’t know what to tell them. I make music. Tribal music. It’s very African and Caribbean influenced, but modernized.

LUCIUS: Any one stand out as a favorite of the tracks? 

BOYCE: Arrival hands down. I haven’t heard anything that sounds like that track.

LUCIUS: Switching gears for a second, what are you listening to right now? 

BOYCE: I’m a die hard Future fan so that Dirty Sprite 2. The new Dr. Dre Compton. Travis Scott-Rodeo. The Weeknd's new album. And all the carnival music from Barbados Crop Over.

LUCIUS: Any dream collaborations you'd like to do? 

BOYCE: Kanye, Nas, Outkast

LUCIUS: So what happens after Phoenix? That is to say, what's the next move for you musically? 

BOYCE: I started my next project already. Have a couple songs completed. But im more concerned with the technical aspects of music right now. I want to be technically sound in my production, so I will be attending production school part-time. I also plan on registering my holding company for my businesses. A music company will be under that umbrella.

LUCIUS: What are your thoughts on the landscape of hip-hop right now? Of music in general?

BOYCE: Hip-hop is the music genre that is keeping the music industry alive. It is stronger than ever. I got the opportunity to travel worldwide as you know. The only genre you hear in every country is hip-hop. Music in general is moving in a good direction. I think the creative are gaining the power with the power and distribution channels of the internet. Once creative people gain their power back, art in general will be more powerful than it has ever been.

LUCIUS: Are there any shouts out that you want to share? 

BOYCE: Shout out to the HULT MBA class of 2015. Shout out to Maurice Tramaine, he has one of the hardest albums that nobody has heard yet. Shout out to Marq “Marq the Infinite” Raymond. A veteran in the industry at just 30 years old. He helped me develop the EP from a mixing and mastering standpoint. Also a hell of a producer. And shout out to Enana. They know who they are and what value they brought to my life.

LUCIUS: Got some uplifting wisdom for us? 

BOYCE: Take risks. It’s really that simple. And meditate.

LUCIUS: How can people keep up with your music? When is Phoenix officially dropping? 

BOYCE: https://soundcloud.com/myzilboycejr. Phoenix EP should be available in the next couple of weeks.

LUCIUS: Thanks again, man. Be blessed. 

BOYCE: You too, man.

'Truth' And The Black Man

A lot of the everyday knowledge we use (and sometimes take for granted) is given by the older heads in our life. One that my mother imparts to me were ones she got from my late grandmother.

It's this: "This world don't owe you nothing but a killing..."

Given today's climate, this is never more true.

But an adage we've all heard at least once or twice. 

Tell the truth and shame the Devil.

I was therefore smiling to myself when I stumbled upon this tape. I'd been familar with South Johannson by his feature on iBeast's track "RNO" from Cadillac Diaries. This made me reach out.

We did an interview and I wrote this review. Granted, it's a long time coming but the best things cannot be rushed, something that can certainly say about the  smooth progression of Tell The Truth | Shame The Devil. 

What's presented here is an epic piece of music. With thirteen (13) track Johannson does something not even the most seasoned rapper can do-make a cohesive album. I was drawn in and lost within track after track with little effort. Usually with the more amazing tapes I take the time to outline every track's merits. 

This is one of those tapes...

...but I'm about to go about it differently. Because I want to pique my reader's interest I'll give you a good look at three (3) of my personal favorites. Gotta whet your appetite a bit.

Here goes.

"I Don't Look Like What I've Been Through" is where I'm about to start. The title firstly speaks to a sentiment a lot of people can relate to. Often no one really looks like their circumstance. On this track South tells us a story of his own situations, his own circumstances. Aside from vibing to the production the words will really make you pay attention, maybe see something of the man.

"Drink 'Til Sober", produced by J3, at first sounds something like simple Atlanta trap music. But once the musical genius of J3 and the delivery takes it up to another level. To me this one is pre-game music before the hypest party, riding music once you're already half lit, and a club banger all at once. But what makes it so different is that this is light on the typical references you'd expect from a track like this. They are present but more peppered in for flavor like you'd add salt (or sugar if that's your thing) to grits.

"The Art Of Storytellin'" caught me because it gave me that same vibe I got when I would see the Outkast track of the same name on a playlist. Like the latter it's eloquent in that beautiful Southern way we have. It's a good ass story placed over a cool vibe in the way of production by WiFi Boys. It's introspective without being preachy and real without any bullshit, something hip-hop needs more of.

I would also suggest that you check out "J. Marie", "Best Friend", and  "Sorry". Each add to the wonders of this project.

The tape as a whole is righteous.

I'm telling the truth. Promise.

Don't believe?

Check out the tape here: Tell The Truth | Shame The Devil

Which Model Should Win the I AM ROYALTY Award + Stoner Backpack?

Click here to vote for your favorite model to win the I AM ROYALTY Award + a Stoner Backpack from our upcoming event at Seattle Hempfest...

Click Here to vote for Michelle Luvly...

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One RAFFLE TICKET entry into our prize pool where additional prizes will be awarded... 

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Street Thoughts will be back at Seattle Hempfest this year promoting their community, products & services as well as selling 420 inspired merchandise!  From having two Magazines to a fully licensed Radio Station to an upcoming Clothing Line, Digital Tour and a Team of Dedicated Talent, Streetz continues to create career building opportunities as well as raise the bar when it comes to Global Exposure!

Are you attending this years Hempfest?  Please show your support by stopping by Street Thoughts booth #596!

When:  August 14-16, 2015
Where:  Seattle Hempfest
Booth Location:  Booth #596 (located between Cannabis Cove & the Rose Garden via the Lunday Way)

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