Heat

No, I'm not referring to the recent improvement in the weather pleasant though it's been. I'm talking about the new video from Configa featuring the vocal talent, and I do mean talent, of Jaz Kahina. The track's called 'We On Fire' and is taken from Configa's 'Calm Before The Storm' project, as mentioned last week, which proves that whatever, whoever says Hip Hop ain't dead.

Late as usual, I first happened upon Jaz on her combination with Illaman 'Talkin' 'Bout God' and have been one of her fans ever since. If you feel the same way, don't miss out on 'DJ Slademan Presents Gone' (feat. Agallah) for more goodness.

On a different tack for a minute, allow me to remind you of a prodigious singer/songwriter who celebrated her Earth Strong this week, Leontre. You already know that I grew up with Reggae as much as (if not more than) Hip Hop and will love it till I die, so it's always a pleasure to hear real authentic Reggae still being made. Everything I've heard from the album (not that it's finished yet) so far has been stellar. So, Ms Roberts, there's no point in wishing you the best as you already have it.

Back to the Hip Hop, this week's seen the release of J Live's 'S.P.T.A.', pronounced "spitta", it's short for said person of that ability, which aptly describes this educator to a tee. It's still possible to get a signed copy of the album on CD. How's that for reaching out to your fans?

Also new is Charity Starts At Home by Phonte of Little Brother and The Foreign Exchange fame. Once again this is further proof that Hip Hop is far from the Reaper. Don't hesitate, just buy this shit now!

Back to the UK, here's the latest video from People's Army veteran Genesis Elijah. Known for producing more bangers than the Wall's factory on bonfire night, Genesis spectacularly fails to disappoint us once again.

Next week the NHS is teaming up with ACLT in a drive to promote donating blood and bone marrow. If you're in London West End, Croydon, Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Bristol or Leicester and you're able, please feel free to call ACLT office on 020 8240 4480 to book an appointment.

If you're one of those people that changes your mobile on the regular, please consider assisting ACLT by donating your old phones in an envelope marked 'Free Post ReCyclewise ACLT'. All phones (not stolen, of course) regardless of their condition will be gratefully received.

One Love, Spy!

Tweet

Once again it's on...

New Year, new station, same old me - or, put another way, I can now officially announce that I'm back 'on air', on Melody One. The show times and content are similar to my previous station; 'Friday Night Raw' - classic and contemporary Hip Hop Friday 00:00-02:00 and 'Spy @ Da Control' - Reggae and Soul, new and old Saturday 20:00-22:00.

Last night I did a short test broadcast (see player below) just to make sure everything was alright - the audio doesn't start until about 56 seconds in, I'll get around to editing it at some point. Thankfully, it all went according to plan, so I will start my new shows this coming weekend 14/01/11 and 15/01/11.

While we're waiting, J-Live has a new single out, 'No Time To Waste', produced by Old School legend Diamond D available for download or as a 12" single (remember those things?).

Also available from J-Live is the 'Undivided Attention EP', which features production by J-Live himself plus Korede, SMKA, Floyd The Locsmif and Nicolay. There should be an album proper released in the coming months and, as usual, I'll let you know more on that as soon as I know more.

Sadly, 'Whatever Happened To Major Tom?' by Black Einstein was omitted from my round up of last year's gems for no other reason than my poor memory. Featuring performances from the likes of Mystro, Xavier and Baby Sol, who also has a new release; 'Before I Begin (The Journey)', WHTMT too is available as a digital download on a 'name your own price' basis. So if you're really skint following the festivities you don't have to deprive yourself of good music.

Before I go, ACLT is an important charitable organization on the edge of extinction and, consequently, is in need of our support. I know times are tough for all of us but please, if you're able, donate what you can and spread the word around. Thank you.

One Love, Spy!

Tweet