Fine Art Friday: Daniel Stoupin - "Slow Life"

I have long been fascinated by macro-photography and macro-video of nature and the world around us all, and though it has little to do with hip hop in this context, the images in this video, entitled "Slow Life" by Daniel Stoupin, are fascinating and magical and hopefully might inspire you to appreciate "something" on a higher level. Stare at this for a while and hopefully you can knock the cobwebs out of your brain and make you think about the energy you put into the universe.

ARTIST WEBSITE
http://www.microworldsphotography.com/

Listen: Common - "The Beat Tape Project"

Always a fan of well executed remix projects and breathing new life into forgotten tracks, but as part of the newest release from The Beat Tape Project, entirely new instrumentals have been created in the overall vibe of an artist, in this case Common, without any vocals. The beats are mostly mellow, while some are experimental, but aimed at the vibe that Common, as an artist, inspires the producers showcased on the project. If only Common would reach out to aspiring producers and use a broader range of sounds, maybe he wouldn't be so heavily criticized for his beat selection and "softer" image. We can only hope he listens to stuff like this and realizes he should get some new A and Rs in his life. Props to the 35 beatmakers featured on the project!

DOWNLOAD LINK
http://thebeattapeproject.bandcamp.com/album/common-the-beat-tape-project

Listen: Booda French - "Dreams of Brooklyn"

Much buzzed about British rapper, Booda French and Brown Bag Allstar (producer and emcee) J57 just released a limited edition turquoise 7" vinyl via legendary label Fat Beats!  Booda and J57I have put out countless songs together in the past and have toured Europe together - but this project , the team explains, might be the "greatest accomplishment as collaborators". 

For those unaware, Booda French is revered as one of the greatest emcees, as well as one of the greatest (former) battle rappers to ever come out of England - and linking with Brooklyn's J57 turned out some of the best work to date. Stream the vinyl below and pick up a copy while you can!

DOWNLOAD LINK

http://www.fatbeats.com/products/booda-french-dreams-of-brooklyn-b-w-61-grace-7

Booda French "Dreams of Brooklyn" (Prod. by J57) -- SIDE A


Booda French "61 Grace" (Prod. by J57) -- SIDE B