This three song EP, recorded in 2010 at seperate times captures the energy and skill embedded in Orikal Uno.
Enlisting the talents of Rhymesayers veteran Sab The Artist (Musab) the two go hard over the soulful and funky production provided by Ganzobean. Rhymesayers/Black Clover emcee Mac Lethal joins the fold to provide some heat to the track "Ammo." Last but certainly not least is the magnetizing track "Rev It Up" featuring up and comer Prof which you may have seen on tour with Atmosphere and Grieves."
Status Reign is not your typical rapper, he’s not arrogant, flashy or melodramatic nor is he afraid of telling you the truth. His full length debut Brutally Honest is due April 5th, 2011 and is shaping up to be some of the finest work heard from the state of Minnesota NOT Atmosphere or Doomtree. He’s been getting a ton of positive press recently due to his well received lead single “Tonight” for which two different remixes were done by Ganzobean of Rhymesayers/Project Blowed fame.
"There's probably a moment in all of our lives where everybody wants to be someone.... else. I believe all people are gifted in some way. Embrace your own gift, whatever it may be and use it for good. We all already are someone.... all of our lives are relevant. Ok, now listen and enjoy."
I've had the distinct pleasure of seeing his young man work on music and the level of focus and drive instilled in him is pretty unmatched. He raps like someone is going to take his starting spot and freestlyes like he's about to say fuck it and kill it Scribble Jam. I've been posting a lot by Orikal Uno and by all means if you haven't been paying attention then now's the fucking time. For the 5th installment of Musicians on Music I present to you Orikal Uno!
NT-Who are you? Where do you call home?
OU-Orikal Uno. People who know me call me Antonio. St. Paul (WEST SIDE!), Minnesota is where i'm from, but I feel at home wherever I'm at in this world. I'm a Puerto Rican American Diabetic artist. NT-How long have you been making music? OU-Been singin' along with songs since I can remember. Starting recording and performing in early 2003. NT-What's one of your fondest memories of music as a kid?
OU-Many childhood memories of mine have some sort of song that was either playing or closely associates with some of the moments. I remember hanging out with my Mom when I was real little, listening to songs from "The Double Dutch Bus" to "People are Strange." Haha, I also just remembered that my Mom used to record me on a little tape recorder singing nursery rhymes when I was like 2 or 3. She busted it out when I got my first real girlfriend and I was real embarrassed at the time, hahaha. I think I sampled that on my 3rd album, "The Harsh Reality"
NT-What kind of music was being played in your house growing up?
OU-Rock, rap, funk, disco... Prince, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Snoop Dogg's Doggystyle and the Nuthin But A G Thang single were always played in the cassette player. I also remember Rick James being played in the car a lot.
NT-What groups or bands are you really digging right now?
OU-Sab The Artist and Ganzobean have been making some insanely good music together. The new Drake was pretty good. Eminem's "Recovery" has been getting some plays since I bought it. For real though, one of Jay-Z's best verses was dropped on Drake's record. I looped that shit like 50 times over when I first heard it.
NT-Who were some of your inspirations in your early years? Who, after listening to it really made you decide to make music?
OU-Michael Jackson was huge for me when I was real young. "Bad" was the first cassette tape I ever owned. 2pac was huge for me. I went through a rock/skater phase for a year or two when I was figuring out who I was. Powerman 5000, Offspring, Sublime, Godsmack and all that. I blame the KFAI Orphanage freestyle for making me want to actually try to make something happen. That was real inspiring. As I dug more into the local scene, I caught on to how Rhymesayers did their thing, and that was real inspiring to me as well. Now they pretty much run shit. And I got to watch a lot of that process in how they did it. Real inspiring. NT-Who do you think is the one producer or Emcee changing the game like he or they see fit, the way they want it without giving a damn? OU-That's hard to say, because a lot of people are really starting to bend their style up into something new. Everything is like a free-for-all in music right now, and it's real refreshing to see people try new things. Timbaland is a prime example of an "evolved" producer. Lots of already-dope people are evolving right now. Busta Rhymes has been droppin' some real nice stuff lately. You can tell Eminem is trying out some new things too. So to answer the question, a handful of musicians are trying new things. I side with controlled experimentation. People finding new ways to make songs about the same ol' topics. NT-In your mind is there any one or two records that is absolutely perfect or damn near close?
OU-2pac - All Eyez On Me, Buena Vista Social Club's album, Red Hot Chili Peppers - BloodSugarSexMagic, Pearl Jam - Ten, Modest Mouse - The Lonesome Crowded West, Dr. Dre's Chronic and Chronic 2001, Jay-Z's - Reasonable Doubt, Eminem - Marshall Mathers LP, Tribe Called Quest - Midnight Mauraders, Outkast - ATLiens and probably a few more.
NT-Is there anything about those album(s) that you know they just "got it right"? OU-True emotions were put into the creation, and you can hear it from the music to the lyrics, front to back. NT-Do you have any "desert island" records to share? OU-I think it would have to be that Buena Vista Social Club album I was talking about. It has all emotions, so it would cover all my moods for the rest of the days I was stranded. Plus, it's pure island music. NT-Why did you decide to start Graff Roots Media? Why Not try to get signed?
OU-I started Graff Roots Media to do my own thing and try to make a living off of it. As far as being signed, I don't really see Graff Roots Media as a "record label" - more of a collective of friends who enjoy working together artistically and professionally. My vision for Graff Roots Media is to be the complete media solution - as in, recording/producing the album, designing the art, shooting the videos and photo shoots, and covering the marketing and back-end operation all at the same time. Graffiti Writers get fame by getting their name up in as many places as possible. That's what i'm trying to do, but professionally. As far as getting signed goes - if anybody lets me control and manage my music & identity 100%, while throwing money on the table for me to do it, or providing the resources for me to spread my music around the world, i'm in.
NT-What equipment are you working with in the studio? OU-My trusty GT-57 condensor mic, an Mbox, KRK Rokit 5 monitors, an Oxygen8 Midi Controller, and a full keyboard. Software is ProTools, Reason 3.0 and Cool Edit Pro. I used to rock Magix Music Studio back when I first started. Been rockin' ProTools for a good 4-5 years now. NT-Could you describe your music-making process?
OU-It's very natural, organic. Sometimes i'll sit down with the beat and try to match what the beat is communicating, whether it's a happy upbeat song or a dark, demented song. Sometimes, it'll just be a random moment in my day that will inspire a song. When I get that inspiration, I match it with music, write it, record it, then move on to the next song.
NT-How have people responded to the music you've have been making? OU-I go through peaks and valleys with the exposure. I remember a good 2 years ago, I got a LOT of response from people when Myspace was poppin' off. Now-a-days, I'm building more of a core fanbase, keeping in touch with the people who have been following, and saying hello to the new fans who are just catching on to me. As far as songs go, different people like different songs I make - but the feedback from everybody has been generally good. I get the best response after rockin' a show though. NT-Is there any surprises or a record in the works right now? OU-Lots of records in the works. The Orikal&Ganzobean debut album is fully recorded, ready to be cleaned up and dropped. Uno, my 5th solo full length fully produced by Anonimust, has had a solid core of songs for a while. But, we keep making better songs, so we'll see when we're completely satisfied. I'm working on a full length album with producer C. Goody - we're planning on releasing it out in Northfield at the Key, as well as the Twin Cities. I'll also be releasing an EP or two with producer LMS. As well as mixtapes and guest features in between! As far as surprises, well, every single day this year has been surprising, so I guess those will come naturally. NT-How did you get hooked up with Sab The Artist for the song "Born To Hustle"? OU-I've been a huge fan of Sab since he was Beyond - I hadn't heard much from him since his old Rhymesayers stuff until Mack Music Vol 1 - I wore that mixtape OUT! So, I always wanted to do a song with him. My guy Ganzobean threw me a beat, where the chorus is saying "Born... To Hustle... All around the world" - Well, I wrote the first 2 verses, but got blocked on the third. After a conversation with Ganzobean, I brought up the idea of gettin' Sab on it. I sent him the song with the verses. He liked it. He rocked the empty verse, sent me vocals, the rest is history. Now Ganzobean resides in Las Vegas. Life's a trip. NT-How about getting the beat for "The Awful Truth" into Sab's hands and having Abstract Rude on it? That must be exciting? OU-It was real exciting! Unexpected, definitely. Sab had told me he liked that beat, but I didn't expect to hear Abstract Rude on it at all. To me, it validated that I can actually make some decent beats. NT-And they named their tour after the song you produced as well? That's a trip! OU-They sure did. And it's definitely a trip. Ganzobean just let me know that I'm on the list for the Nomad stop of the tour. I'll be there. NT-Is there any artists or producers you're looking forward to working with or would love to work with? OU-Always wanted to do some shit on some Dr. Dre joints. Always wanted to get some beats from Ant. Would love to do a song with Twista, or Devin the Dude. But this year, I got to do songs with 2 different people I really look up to (Prof, Sab), so that's been fun. I've always wanted to do a song with Illuminous 3. The musicians I respect are the ones I want to work with. NT-Are you picky when it comes to working with an artist? OU-It depends. As long as the artist is good peoples, I'm good with it. But if I ain't feelin' it, I won't be on it. NT-Are you producing for anyone right now or is anyone producing for you in particular right now? OU-My only recent production has been for Sab & Abstract Rude. As far as producers I'm working with: Anonimust, Ganzobean, Chris Goodwin, MK Ultra, LMS, DP Thot, Shells, Kaz Nasty, Rap Janitors (Spain), and Diligent Intelligence have all contributed to songs of mine this year. NT-Let's talk about your fans? OU-Best fans a guy could ask for. I get some real nice messages and comments from people. My fans are very supportive and they help me grow. I love you people. NT-Have you been getting good press recently? Any blogs been a buzz with you lately? OU-As far as physical press, nope, no press. I have a slight buzz around the interwebz. I've been laying low for a good year now, not really performing, so I don't blame anybody for not being interested right now. I'm building a strong arsenal of material so when I do strike again, people will hear it. and hopefully like it. NT-What's the perfect crowd to you? OU-Lots and lots of happy people completely feeling the music. A crowd with free drinks is always fun too. NT-Do you have any shows coming up or tour dates? OU-Nothing official yet. Almost ready to leave my studio and return to the stage soon though. NT-What's your take on the internet, has it helped or hurt you in terms of reaching an audience or making your money? OU-I got into it right as the old model was dying and Napster first came out. The internet has definitely helped a youngin' like me get some exposure and sales for sure. NT-Where can people go to hear and buy your music? OU-orikaluno.bandcamp.com I have lots of free downloads and a couple singles posted there. I'll also be using that site to release my future albums, EPs, and other musical chaos. NT-last question...when you hit the venue, what drink is getting ordered first? OU-On July 27th I'll take a Bacardi and Coke. NT-Anything else to add for the readers or haters? Any shout outs? OU-Reader, I appreciate your attention span. Shout out to my Mom, Grandma and Aunt, my Rosario family, Women, Bacardi, The West Side of St. Paul, Everyone who I work with, my friends, anybody Diabetic, and Swisher Sweets.
No Team In I (EXCLUSIVE) Orikal Uno & Prof - Rev It Up No Team In I (EXCLUSIVE) Orikal Uno, Status Reign, JL Magee - BackRoots
No Team In I (EXCLUSIVE) Orikal Uno - Missmewiddat
No Team In I (EXCLUSIVE) Maria Isa, Orikal Uno & Anonimust - Sex Shoota
With roots wrapped in the rhythms of calypso and steelpan Shells musical ideology germinated upon the lands of her adolescent familys journey to the isle of Barbuda. Developing on the sands of an island coursing with African influence and Carribbean flavor, Shells came to know many island locals and flourished next to those who taught her the art of steelpan drumming. Privy to the drum-laden island tempo and beats, Shells was metamorphosed by the music. Yet back home in the states her early influences came by way of radio, rock n’ roll and the local neighbor who taught her, at the precocious age of eight, to play guitar. As well, an older sister with appreciation of music that came of a generation before hers aided in the propagation of an ear for bands and live instrumentation.
It was after this introduction to the core of US rock that Shells effloresced on her home terrain of music. She began certified instruction on guitar under Ken Volpe, who recognized her musical thirst and asked if she would like to aid him in the construction of a drum room in his studio basement. Shells obliged, and from the experience the topography of music once again morphed around her: she now nurtured an intense interest in soundproofing and recording, in percussion variation, in the studio atmosphere as an environment. Since Shells first pulled sound from the steelpans, she has nurtured a profound love of music. Stirred by house, breakbeats and jungle upon the inception of rave and club culture, it was here that rhythm and tempo again made upheaval upon her musical life. Hypnotized by the repetitive essence of breakbeat dancehall mixes, and the evolving world of dance surrounding them, Shells began dj’ing sets at the green age of 14 during a time when under-agers sprung up in the cracks of the scene at outlaws and no-age venues without recourse.
Further fed by the hip-hop, reggae and R&B which thrived on mainstream airwaves at this time, Shells became deeply intrigued by a foundational question of the music she both spun and was surrounded by in hip-hop culture: but how do the sounds get on the records? It was this very question that beat down the path Shells still walks today, the path of producer, with the steelpans and rhythms of her youth ever-inspiring the core of her profession, and with breakbeats as a stimulant behind her breakdown-heavy hip-hop, R&B and reggae productions. Influence never ceases with Shells, nor do her appetites for travel and culture, and the world music that has fed her experimentation since the days when she played steelpan at Barbudan dusk. Most recently Shells spent time working in Spain and backpacking the Mediterranean circuit to Greece, where she gathered world-perspective and the opportunity to allow flamenco, accordion ballad and the bouzouki of the Greek islands of her family lineage to inform her productions back home in the studio.
Today Shells finds sustenance in underground hip-hop collaborations, homegrown in her studio and cultivated on the streets. She believes in the integrity of individual sound, and ingests a healthy dose of the political, expanding the appetite of her influence and productions to include political spoken word and hip-hop steeped in the ideologies of sociological struggle. Shells' insatiable appetite for sound has allowed her to explore and record further varietables of music including hip hop, screambands, rock, pop, reggaeton, poet/post-production mixes and straight-up experimental.
She was Head Session Engineer/Production Supervisor at the NatCave Studios, Brooklyn, NY, from 2007 until 2009. Now residing in Chicago on her way to Los Angelas to set up shop for good, Shells is forever seeking the spices and flavors of an international, inter-continental sound.
Never shy to a challenge and always hungry to explode the underappreciated sound, Shells has worked with the likes of Twista Atlantic & Get $ Gang, Omarion, Empress ISIS of the Underground Reggae Awards, Bristal & Twan of Bootcamp Click, Papoose of Streetsweepers, SAB of Rhymesayers Ent/Hiero Imperium, Prof of Stophouse, Orikal Uno of Graff Roots Media and many other artists.
Orikal Uno is on his Lil Wayne grind with recording over 30 songs already this year. He's been rocking with everyone it seems, check the list. Sab The Artist, Prof, Ganzobean, Chris Goodwin, Shells, Dilligent Intelligence, Status Reign, Anonimust, Try-D, Maria Isa, Dj Mindcontrol, JL Magee and Cherrelle. Never the less making the beat for "The Awful Truth" for Sab and Abstract Rude. Keep on the lookout for the Orikal Uno interview soon.
The next installment of "Musicians on Music" comes in the form of Rhymesayers/Hiero Imperium heavyweight Sab The Artist, although some older heads might know him under the Moniker Musab or the even older heads might remember Beyond. This dude was co-founder of your favorite Record Label Rhymesayers and has been producing pure quality music since before then. I mean this dude introduced Slug and Ant...which formerd your favorite group of all-time Atmosphere. NT-Who are you? Where are you from and where are you now? SAB-My name is Sab. Sab The Artist professionally. I'm a musician, song writer, vocalist, performer, audio engineer, etc. I'm from the Twin Cities, Minneapolis/St.Paul,MN. I grew up in south Minneapolis. I now reside in Las Vegas, NV. Although I'm like a leaf in the wind, I could land any where at any time. NT-How would you classify your taste in music? SAB-Vast. I'm not so much into a form of music as I am into the artist delivering it. I like watching an artist develop. Watching to see how far they are willing to stretch their rope. It's not hard to tell who spends the most time crafting their art. Who's not afraid to challenge the barriers of genre and sound. It's the artist for me. NT-Is there a certain genre you really enjoy outside of hip-hop? SAB-Definitely Pop/Rock. In my opinion Bob Marley is the greatest music artist of all time, but David Bowie is my favorite and ultimate artist of all time. I'm all about Journey, The Beatles, Billy Joel, Chicago, Phil Collins etc. If your doing music and don't wanna follow in those guys footsteps then please step aside. Your just blocking our path. NT-Do you have any "desert island" records to share? SAB-That's easy. An island? Give me Bob Marley's catalog. NT-In your mind is there any one record that is absolutely perfect or damn near close? SAB-Bob Marley is the greatest music artist of all time because he has the most perfect songs out of any one else. There's too many to name but stand outs are Michael Jackson - Thriller, Lauryn Hill - Miseducation, Snoop Dogg - Doggy Style (which in my opinion is the greatest rap album ever), Prince - Purple Rain, Bob Dylan - Blonde on Blonde.... I could get carried away. NT-Is there anything about that/those album(s) that you know they just "got it right"? SAB-No one knows exactly how a perfect album is made. I do believe timing is a big factor. I personally don't hear music, I feel it. When music is organic is when it has it's biggest influence. People are drawn to organic music, when they can feel it and not only hear it. So every perfect album we've heard is organic in someway. Maybe that's the secret. NT-What was Hip-Hop like in the early 90's in Minnesota? SAB-It was very organic. A hungry baby. We didn't know any better, we just wanted it. NT-What was it like working on your first record "Comparison" SAB-The final recording process was hectic. Me and Ant actually made most of those songs a couple of years before hand. When it came time to do the album we didn't know anything about big studio recording. We recorded the album at some guy's studio, listened and scrapped it. Then Siddiq went out and maxed his credit card on studio equipment, built a vocal booth in his basement and we got to work. We simultaneously recorded Comparison, Overcast and Dynospectrum. The rest is history. NT-How did the Dynospectrum happen? SAB-Me, Slug, Gene Poole and I Self were just constantly around each other vibin and making art. The name is a word I made up, there's a song on Comparison titled Dynospectrum. Slug said to me one day "we should call our group Dynospectrum". I said "word". NT-Why the name General Woundwart? SAB-I took the name General Woundwart from an animated film titled Watership Down. He's the leader of the villain rabbits. A real serious dude. NT-Please tell me theres another Dynospectrum record in the works! It's honesty the illest group album to a whole lot of people...just say yes...please. SAB-I can't say, LOL NT-Who do you think is the one producer or emcee that's really changing the dynamic in hip-hop right now? is there one? SAB-Changing the dynamics? That'd be Sab The Artist with Ganzobean and Ultra Chorus. And I'll give Kanye his props cause he's like the only dude people are thinking "what's he gonna do next?" NT-How's it feel working with your sister Sandy? SAB-Is it a long time coming? - Yea it's great, being able to share my dream with my sister up close is amazing. It's been forever in the making. We have so much in store for the world. Be on the lookout for some of our other siblings as well. We have a BIG family. NT-How has the Leak Series been doing in terms of getting more people listening to your music? SAB-The Leak Series has been fantastic. It's given me a creative runway to take off with everything I've been developing over the last few years. I'm happy with people's response, it's 90% great. It lit the fuse to the big bang. NT-How has the push been for the leak series on the internet whether it be social networking sites like Facebook or Myspace or Message boards? SAB-It's going swell. The internet is obviously the most used vehicle for promotion and I feel I've learned how to utilize it, but I'm a strong believer in the power of word of mouth. I don't over promote online and I believe spam hurts an artist more than it helps, if it helps at all. As long people are talking about your music, your good. NT-Are there any surprises or a record in the works right now? SAB-Oh yea. First up is the Sab The Artist EP. It's a gallery of beautiful music, 7 songs. "Artsy Crafty" is the first single available now, expect the video soon. The EP will be available online and on the Awful Truth tour this summer. Also my next full length will probably be HGH (Heaven,Girls,Hell). It's a complete collaboration with a production duo named Ultra Chorus. So music is lined up to go, just ironing out the kinks to insure each project is successful. And there are some surprises which I won't mention. That would spoil it. NT-What's your approach to making a new record? Does it just happen, or are there specific periods you sit down and just knock it out? SAB-I approach my songs like I'm painting a picture. There's many different layers and colors used to try an unleash the mood I want the song to have. I don't rush music. Music is art, I'm an artist. Some art is for the eyes, some for the ears. The purpose is how it makes you feel either way. NT-What's your take on the internet and the downloading of music? Has it helped artists or hurt them in terms of gaining fans or revenue? SAB-That depends on your approach to music and how you choose to get it heard. The biggest area it has affected in my opinion is how music is created. I think it's taken a lot of the creative quality out of the process of making music. Sonically and all. It's thinned out the process. Otherwise it's fine by me. It all comes from the mind at the end of the day. NT-How was it working with Abstract Rude? You guys have a great chemistry. How did you meet? SAB-Thanks. We met at Soundset back in 2008. I'm feeling what we do together. The Awful Truth Tour is going to be fantastic. We have a lot more in store, keep a lookout.
AWFUL TRUTH TOUR SCHEDULE AND OPENERS: June 22 - Las Vegas, NV Hip Hop Roots 2yr anniv (110th show) Boomers
[openers: Rock Steady Crew, Mikey VIP, Highdro, Mob Zombie, Artson] June 23 - LA Low End Theory Airliner June 24 - SC Moes Alley *C
[traveling openers: Alpha MC & Psychosis of Swim Team] June 25 - Grants Pass, OR Rhymin on the River Festival
-AB RUDE ONLY feat. Tour guests- June 26 - Eugene, OR John Henry's Club June 27 - Shasta, CA Wayside June 30 - Portland, OR Berbati's
[opener: MY-G]
[traveling opener: Toki Wright] July 1 - Seattle, WA Nectar
[opener: Suntino Bandanaz] July 3 - Bozeman, MT Zebra Cocktail Lounge July 5 - Boise Neurolux July 6 - Instore @ Uprok / SLC Salt Shaker 21+ July 7 - SLC Kilby Court all ages
[opener: Burnell Washburn] July 8 - Park City, UT Star Bar July 9 - Denver Larimer July 10 - Lincoln, NB The Alley July 11 - Des Moines, Iowa Vaudville Muse July 12 - Chicago, IL Abbey Pub July 14 - Detroit, MI Alvin's
- AB RUDE Only - (Rejuveaple Leaf Tour - Eastern Canada edition) July 15 - Toronto, ONT Annex Wreck Room
[traveling openers: PBT, Nilla, Mindbender] July 16 - Ottowa - Ritual Nightclub July 17 - Hamilton, ONT This Ain't Hollywood
[openers: DJ Realistic, PBT, Mindbender, NiLLa] July 18 - London, ONT
The Awful Truth Tour - midwest edition July 19 - Musab rejoins tour July 19 - Columbus, OH Skullys
[openers: Midas Touch & Illogic] July 20 - Dayton/Fairborn, OH One Eyed Jacks July 21 - Milwaukee, WI Stonefly Brewery
[opener: local DJ] July 24 - Minneapolis, MN The Nomad
[opener: Muja Messiah] July 25 - St. Cloud, MN The Rox
[opener: Carnage] July 26 - Duluth, MN Pizza Luce
[opener: 2one8] July 27 - Columbia, MO Mojo July 29 - Kansas City, MO Record Bar
[openers: Cess Crew]
The Awful Truth Tour - southwest edition July 30 - Dallas, TX Lounge on Elm Street
[openers: DJ Notion] July 31 - Austin, TX Red 7
[openers: DJ Notion] Aug 1 - San Antonio, TX Limelight
[openers: DJ Notion] Aug 2 - El Paso, TX Aug 3 - Albuquerque, NM Launch Pad Aug 4 - San Francisco, CA Club Six
-AB ONLY + Citizen Ten- Aug 6 - Las Vegas 1st Fridays @ Bunkhouse
[openers: Paria B & DuwopRose, AmiRikkah, Outside Looking In, Jay Dubler
[traveling openers: Alpha MC & Psychosis + Open Mike Eagle of Swim Team]
The Awful Truth Encore Tour Aug 11 - Palm Springs, CA space 120
[traveling openers: Alpha MC & Psychosis + Open Mike Eagle of Swim Team & Highdro] Aug 12 - San Diego, CA Aug 13 - Phoenix, AZ The Hidden House Aug 14 - Pasadena, CA Terrace Cafe
[opener: Ivan Ives]
PLEASE BUY DUDES SHIT AND SUPPORT A LEGEND! HE PRETTY MUCH STARTED HIP-HOP IN MINNESOTA, AND YOUR FAVORITE GROUP OF ALL-TIME. IT'S TIME TO SWING ON SOME NEW NUTS!
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The mega homie Ganzobean hooked me up and delivered a banger of an exclusive. Gang Starr tribute with all the fixins. He took time out of his busy schedule to hand craft this for No Team In I. He's mixing down the Sab EP, getting shit ready to hit the road with Abstract Rude for the Awful Truth Tour and generally being a fucking straight up pimp. So, here it is.
Second installment of "Musicians On Music" with Abstract Rude.
Let's get this out in the fresh air, Abstract Rude is one of the illest emcee of All-Time...yes I said it, if you look at dudes work at a catalogue, the shit he's produced has become copied more then most shit you'll find. The embodiment of his work is not only amazing at best but you can't pinpoint a single track he maybe gave less then 110% on.
He's worked with pretty much every single one of your favorite rappers from Aceyalone to Sab The Artist. Shit, he even got on the homie Orikal Uno's beat! He's an amazing person and sat down during his Rejuvemaple Leaf Tour to answer some questions. Much props to Abby for responding and making No Team In I the hot spot for a minute.
NT-Who are you?
AR-Abstract Rude a soulful bboy
NT-Where are you from and where are you now?
AR-Los Angeles, CA born & raised, I'm writing you from Calgary, Alberta right now on my "Rejuvemaple Leaf Tour" of Western Canada.
NT-How would you classify your taste in music?
AR-Mmm Mmm good...I like blues/soul/gospel first, jazz next, roots, rock, reggae, hip hop and hella alternative sounding music too, I'm well rounded.
NT-Did you have or do you still have a favorite record store?
AR-Amoeba Records in Hollywood, its Disneyland for music lovers.
NT-Is there a certain genre you really enjoy outside of hip-hop?
NT- In your mind is there any one record that is absolutely perfect or damn near close?
AR-Most of Prince's material is perfect, like Purple Rain. Michael Jackson's Thriller was perfect. Gang Starr's Step in the Arena was perfect. Basically the LPs I named above are.
NT-Is there anything about that/those album(s) that you know they just "got it right"?
AR-The feel, heartfelt or vivid lyrics, natural voices and fun concepts to get into, a new sound introduced basically.
NT-Who were some of your inspirations in your early years?
AR-We were childhood friends who did everything together so it was a natural progression. Our leader Zulu Butterfly started Tribe Unique, then named me Abstract. We were a dance tribe, but I always rhymed too, so as the industry started pushing the rapper upfront we became ATU.
AR-Kinda the same way. He had heard about me at the Life rippin, then we officially met hanging out at Volume Ten's pad who lived in my neighborhood at the time. Back then heads kicked it way more and would have sessions all the time at home labs.
AR-Acey began working on his Book Of Human Language record with an upstart label in SF called Ocean Floor. During that process he brought Myka & I up for sessions and we'd play side gigs up north at colleges, etc. So eventually with all of us being in the studio we started jammin with band members and created the Haiku d'etat record, a true jam session.
AR-Atmosphere and a young Eyedea opened for Acey & I the first time we went to Chicago on some indie shit in '96. So I had met them back then and connected, bought their shirt and 12 inch I remember. So by '99 I entered Scribble Jam with P.e.a.c.e. & Otherwize and it came down to us vs them really: Sole, Dose One & Eyedea vs us 3. Eyedea won, we felt P.e.a.c.e. got robbed [whole other story] but we all stayed cool. It was fun. So by 2000 Slug & Eyedea were touring around Cali and I had them come to the studio and jump on my P.a.i.n.t record on a song called "Frisbee". Later toured with Eyedea & Acey in 2002. So by 04 they approached me figuring I could use a better push than I was getting on my LPs, and the rest is history.
AR-Knew them since a kid named Daybi first brought me to Canada back in late '96. Prevail lived with Daybi and Moka would always come through. I stayed a week and we got tight and became friends. I snuck back up there in the late 90's for lil gigs and got that Rolling Along 12" done with Moka. Madchild offered me a LP deal shortly after that. We made 2 LPs, P.a.i.n.t. & Showtyme in 2001 & 2003. Then I left.
AR-That first visit in late '96 early '97 we found out that we were all scorpios. My actual alias was Codename Scorpion if u listen to my Thynk Taynk LP song called "Akira" I called myself that it was my codename - so I gave that concept to us as a group project. In mid '99 we recorded for a week and created that record with those 7 songs + 1 or 2 solos from each member. It became a cdn classic and I wish Prevail was down for another one these days - but if it has to live as a classic forever, i'm not mad at that either.
NT-Who do you think is the one producer or emcee that's really changing the dynamic in hip-hop right now? is there one?
AR-Hmm...Danger Mouse I would've said from the whole Jay-Z remixes to the gorillaz that was a hell of a ride + that Doom LP he produced...
AR-Jake One is getting it in...Vitamin D definitely has heat and his last R&B record with Choklate was amazing. It was a good look for the new sound of rhythm & blues...2Mex has a new record coming called "My Fanbase Will Destroy You" and I heard 9 of the most perfect songs on that upcoming LP and boy - just wait and see, he is killing it...also, I'd like to think I'm doing my part lol...
NT-What is it about West coast hip-hop, LA specifically that makes the hip hop so smooth and laid back?
AR-Mostly good weather I guess...we got beaches, the hood, hollywood & wide streets for cruising - good weed too. The terrain is spread out which lends to less stress overall I'd imagine.
NT-Who should we be on the lookout for in LA?
AR-Freestyle Fellowship's new LP, Swim Team members doing their thing, The Sistem Femcees like Jroz & Jnatural, Madame Brown & Oracle Jayne Doe, Nocando & Kail, 2Mex, LMNO, Evidence got new heat coming on RSE.
NT-What equipment are you working with in the studio?
AR-I dont produce, but my guys like Fatjack & Vita are old school mpc + asr + sampling & some keyboards...I stick with my mic my pad and my pen, though I have been writing on my laptop lately...my guy kenny segal is still a computer cat, lol
NT-Are there any surprises or a record in the works right now?
AR-Steel Making Trax: The Export. The latest installment in my Making Tracks series...its an interim project. And yes I'm working on a new Abstract Tribe Unique LP as well...bunch of shit, read my myspace blogs for more.
NT-What's your approach to making a new record? Does it just happen, or are there specific period you sit down and just knock
AR-I just concentrate on loving the songs I am making...it comes randomly. I keep the feel and go off feel...if thats 3am or 4:20pm i get it in
NT-You have fans globally, do you ever sit back and think about how your changing the way people think about music?
AR-No. If I am its too humbling to sit and think about it, I just do what I do and connect with the people worldwide. No time to ponder a legacy when you're still in the thick of it.
NT-What's your take on the internet and the downloading of music? Has it helped artists or hurt them in terms of gaining fans or revenue?
AR-Gift & a curse really. It helps and hurts just like any new invention that makes humans lazier. Helps expose you, but over exposes you at the same time to where people can steal from you easier.
NT-How has illegally downloaded music impacted your career or has it not even made a dent?
AR-made me broker I'm sure...lol
NT-How did the song "The Awful Truth" work out? I'm good friends with the guy who produced the beat, Orikal Uno and he was stoked to have you on the track.
AR-Musab asked me to get on it, said he had a concept. I was performing in Vegas and had some time, we knocked it out one afternoon. It was easy like sunday morning.
NT-How was it working with Sab The Artist? You guys have a great chemistry. How did you meet?
AR-We met at Soundset 2008. Sab is mellow I can be mellow or wild, so its a good mix. Working with him is chill we're still exploring the chemistry. We have an EP we're working on for our upcoming Summer Tour this late June. Ganzobean is his guy on the beats. We're calling it The Awful Truth EP, fitting title.
NT-When you hit the venue, what drink is getting ordered first and for who?
AR-Everyone and anyone who knows me knows its the drink my buddys from San Francisco put me up on years ago...Bombay Sapphire gin & Tonic of course.
NT-Anything else to add for the readers? Any shout outs?
AR-Shout outs to my family and extended family of music supporters all over the globe + DJ FatJack, DJ Drez, Artistic, DJ Zo, Kenny Segal, Zulu & Irie from Tribe Unique, Project Blowedians, DJ Vadim & Yarah Bravo, Musab (Sab), One Love Gallery Deluxe, Fatbol, DJ Heywood, Peter Payne & all my Rhymesayers fam.
In case you douchers were'nt paying attention the Homie Sab (Musab or Beyond or General Woundwart) for the old school heads that fell off has some new shit in the works. The Single "Artsy Crafty" drops May 25th from the upcoming self-titled EP from Sab The Artist, straight from the mouth of super producer Ganzobean. There's also a record in the works with Abstract Rude, yeah that Abstract Rude (let's hope for a collab with Aceyalone)
If you missed the interview I did with Ganzobean you can check that shit right hurr.
The homie Ganzobean has dropped a remix for the song "Be, Anything" him and Sab The Artist did a while back...it's a club song, compared to the other version it's leaps and bounds different, but yet it's not.
'"When I decided to do the remix, I figured why not. I love the original track I did with SAB and it's gotten such a great response. The remix turned out as fire as the original and I'm excited. This one's for all the DJs in the club and the kids in streets." - Ganzobean
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Let me start this off by saying the individual in this interview is a friend of mine and it's because of his hard work and amazing desire that I've asked him to sit down and answer some questions for me. I'd like to introduce to you Morgan Willenbring BKA Ganzobean on the first installment of "Musicians On Music."
*MW=Morgan Willenbring AKA Ganzo Bean.
*NT=No Team In I
NT-Who are you?
MW-I've been asking myself that for years. I think you're looking for Ganzobean. NT-I'm interested in you and your taste in music. MW-This is hard. NT-So...Who Are You? MW-My name is Ganzobean and I'm 25yrs old. I was born and raised in Saint Paul, MN. I currently live in Las Vegas, NV and DJ/Produce full time for Sab or Musab from Rhymesayers/Hiero-Imperium. NT-Who were some of your inspirations in your early years? MW-Prince Paul, Dan The Automator, Ant and DJ Shadow were my number ones in terms of producers. Paul and Automator were a huge influence. They do things with samples that I could only dream about at night...... MW-Ant has probably the best drums I've ever heard. I dare you to find someone with a better Snare collection. NT-The thing I notice about all those producers is they're not your "typical" beat makers, in a sense. MW-Right, they make songs with their "beats." NT-Right, and also, if you take a look at their work it's incredibly extensive and stretched far past what you call "typical rap" wouldn't you say? MW-Right, they've all done multiple upon multiple projects with all sorts of people. NT-What about RJD2? MW-I like and respect him, but I don't know if I can call him an influence. I just never wanted to be him... NT-Who do you think is the one producer changing the game like he sees fit? The way he wants it? Like a Danger Mouse or Dan The Automator? MW-I'm gonna have to say me. Sorry, but I can't think of anyone who is gonna change the game like Sab and myself. NT-Why do you say that? MW-Isn't that honestly how anyone in the music business, and just business in general, has to be if you genuinely care about your craft or art? To quote Sab "If you aint tryin to make it. Get the fuck out the way!" NT- In your mind is there any one record that is absolutely perfect or damn near close? MW-There are two that pop into my head right away...Midnight Marauders & The Soul Position EP. Non hip hop, the list is waayyyy too long. NT-Is there anything about those album that you know they just "got it right" MW-The flow. You can listen to them from front to back every time. NT-Any chance we could hear Blueprint over a Ganzobean beat? MW-I don't see why not. He'd sound good. I like Blueprint. He's actually a fav of mine for sure. NT-Besides those two records, do you have any "desert island" records to share? MW-Well, a couple others for sure. The Chronic, 36 Chambers, The Great Adventures of Slick Rick to name a few. I'd also have to put all 3 Carters (Lil Wayne) and Drake's EP on that list. NT-What equipment are you working with in the studio? MW-iMac, DIGI 003 Rack, Pro Tool 8 factory, Yamaha HS50 Monitors, Akai MPD 24 and an M-Audio KeyRig 25. Then 2 Technic 1200MK5 turntables with a Vestax PMC-05 Mixer is my DJ set up. Mics are AT3035 and a Blue Bird. NT-Sounds dope. How have people responded to the music Sab and yourself have been making? MW-They've responded phenomenally!!! It's the exact response we wanted and we're planning for. NT-Are there any surprises or a record in the works right now? MW-Yes, we definitely have some projects coming up. The new EP, which will be out in early June. His new LP "HGH" sometime late this year. I'm doing a new project with Sab and Abstract Rude, release date TBA. Keep an eye out for that one. Like whoa! Then Sab and I have a secret project. I'm not sure how much I can say. I may have already said too much. Two words: Minnesota Legends. I'll leave the rest up to you. NT-Whoa, Abstract Rude? That's got to be crazy thinking about that? MW-It's an honor. He's one of the few that I was a little awe struck. I was back in MN getting ready to move out to Vegas and Sab hit me up. He was like: I've been talkin to Rude and him and I are gonna do an EP and I want to use all your beats and have you produce it. I was like alright, cool, lets go. Deep down inside I was like. FUCKING RUDE! FUCKING ABSTRACT FUCKING RUDE! BOOSH!. I listened to him growing up soooo much. High School consisted of good hip hop and Abstract Rude. I've gotten past the whole aww thing and am just pumping out 4-5 beats a day. I'm ready to make history with Sab and Rude. We are going to KILL this EP. NT-What about the fans? MW-I'm loving the fans and I will never stop loving fans. "Love it! So poetic. Really like your signature sound.... Can groove to the beat." - Comment about the new leak. The fans fucking rule! NT-That's fucking awesome! MW-I would agree. Thanks dude. NT-Have you guys been getting good press at all? MW-We've been getting great press and tons of it. Just today they played "Be, Anything" on the Current in the Twin Cities, Sunbeam (Produced by: Nima Fadavi of Hiero-Imperium) has been getting played all up and down the west coast. A bunch of music blogs have been posting the Leak series and the leak videos are getting daily hits. NT-What's the perfect crowd to you? MW-In the end it doesn't really matter the size of the crowd, but the energy. As long as everybody is feeling it and moving or dancing, then I'm happy. I don't mind selling out a show either. That's always a good feeling. I love my fans, as I should. haha. NT-Last question...when you guys hit the venue, what drink is getting ordered first and for who? MW-Scotch. Probably Dewars, for Mr. Sabbi Sab. But I'm usually right behind him getting a PBR or Tecate. Although these days it's been Jameson and water...Thee Irish in me is alive and well. NT-Anything else to add for the readers? Any shout outs? MW-Shout out Sab, Sandy, RSE, Hiero, Moms, Pops and the homie Orikal. and "I can see you thru my shades/I'm a wear mine if it's night or day" and "If we can make it here/We can make it anywhere"
Ganzobean BANDCAMP/TWITTER/FACEBOOK/MYSPACE
Musab BANDCAMP/TWITTER/FACEBOOK/MYSPACE/RHYMESAYERS/OFFICIAL/YOUTUBE
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