via//chicago

np: "self conscious" - kanye west

hip-hop album of 2004 right hurr. at least if it's released in this current form. i guess all the samples haven't been cleared yet, so its possible there some changes before it actually hits the streets. which includes the awesome L-Boogie sample on this song, it works wonders. probably about the only good thing that's come out of that atrocious Unplugged set of hers. this kid has got some mad flows though, in addition to his top-notch production. check out the Def Poetry Slam acapella version of this song for further proof of his lyrical skills.

in other news the new D-12 jawn is supposed to drop sometime this spring, complete with guest spots from G-Unit, 50 Cent, Obie Trice and production work from Em, Dre, and the Neptunes. sounds promising, and hopefully it can build on the somewhat shaky foundation of the first D-12 album. that was a really spotty album with a few excellent moments, but i don't think it was quite as bad as some people make it out to be.

2004 is less than a month strong, and in addition to The Fall i've already been introduced to another outstanding band that i wish i had checked out before. a friend hooked me up with the first album from Orange Juice this weekend and i've been enjoying the hell out of that album, especially lead-off track "Falling and Laughter". its somewhat refreshing to hear a little optimism coming out of the dark post-punk early 1980s. it's a very strong album overall that leaves me hungry for more from this band.