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Sarob talks us through his latest 'Transitions'

Sarob is a hip-hop and neo soul artist from Columbus, Ohio, whose music often blends smooth melodies with politically charged, coming of age lyrics. His most recent release, ‘Carrion Dawn’, criticises the water crisis suffered by the city of Flint in Michigan, where over 100,000 residents have been exposed to lead-poisoned water since 2014.

MusicMap was eager to hear more about Sarob’s Transitions series of EPs, his musical background and the scene in Ohio, so we sent through a few questions…

‘Carrion Down’ has quite a moody, tense atmosphere, how would you describe your mindstate while you were writing it?

My mindstate was tense, to say the least. I was hurt – well, I’m still hurt – over the fact that people in Flint, a predominantly-black city, lack drinkable or usable water. The crisis there has been going on for several years — it never should’ve happened in the first place, but you would think in the “greatest country in the world” there’d be a better response to it. I’m not from Flint, but I’m still deeply frustrated, and I wanted to do something in my music to help people remember what’s going on.

Do you feel musicians have a duty to speak out politically right now?

I don’t think musicians have a duty to be political. I’d prefer many musicians stay out of politics because they don’t know what they’re talking about and sometimes say some wild shit that empowers the wrong people. I think musicians should just make good art.

For me, politics have been important throughout my life. Like most of the stuff I think and talk about is rooted in politics somehow. But I grew up in a politically-aware household and studied politics in college, so it’s not like I’m going out of my way to say something; my perspective is just highly political.

The E.P. is called Transitions: Phase Two. What transitions do you feel you’re experiencing as an artist at the moment?

This year I’ve been going through a lot. I’ve been succeeding, I’ve been struggling and I’ve been sacrificing. I think dealing with fear has been the hardest part. I’m so driven to do something meaningful – to achieve goals and positively impact millions – that I fear making mistakes or being set back. Like if I don’t get an A+ on something I do, then I basically got an F. The Transitions Series is a way to help get me out of that. It was a way to help me trust myself and share that growth with the world. I just made songs, trusted my talent and let them go. It was an explorational process – self-explorational and sound-explorational.

What sort of music were you exposed to when you were growing up, and how has it influenced your work as an artist?

My mom put me on to all my favorite music. She grew up in the fifties so I grew up listening to the same things she grew up with: Smokey, The Temptations, Chicago, Dionne Warwick, Zapp, The O’Jays, Isleys, Carlos Santana. Timeless music. All of that is a big inspiration to me. It’s a challenge, too, because I’m never satisfied with anything unless I think it can stand the test of time, like Prince’s or D’Angelo’s catalogue. I know I don’t quite measure up to them yet, but hopefully one day my art can reach that caliber of greatness.

What is the music scene like in Ohio? Any other local artists who should be on our radar?

Ohio’s tight. I think because of where we are geographically, we soak up a lot of different styles and genres of music – you can see influence from the East Coast, South and West Coast, and it all blends together. This is cool because there’s no particular sound – there’s not a Columbus sound nor a Cincinnati sound whereas there’s definitely an Atlanta or New York sound. And I say that with all respect. I think we’ve benefited from hearing that Atlanta sound and that New York sound while also hearing that Toronto sound (which is closer than both cities) and that Chicago sound and that West Coast sound, etc.

Dom Deshawn and Joey Aich are two rappers to watch out for. Souther is a fire band with some amazing stuff on the way. Tae Miles from Cleveland is unbelievable – I’m excited for him to come back.

What should music fans visiting Ohio see/do/drink/eat?

In Columbus there are a ton of nights where DJs spin at parties, which are always super dope. My friend Satele will pop up and DJ at random events a few times a month, and it’s always mad fun. There’s Orange Soda, which is a 2000s R&B party hosted by DJ Bern. There’s HIPS at Brothers Drake, a local meadery. Things are starting to bubble, which is so good for our scene and culture here.

Can you send us a photo of the view from your window?

My window is blocked by like a million trees but I can get y’all another picture.

Finally, what is the meaning of the name Sarob?

Sarob loosely translates to “mirage” in Arabic.

#Columbus #Dom Deshawn #Flint #hip-hop #Joey Aich #neo soul #ohio #politics #rnb #sarob #Satele #Souther #Tae Miles #usa

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Somalie's afro house debut on Techfui is the ultimate summer jam

We first heard of Techfui through label boss Salah Sadeq, an artist we have covered in the past on MusicMap. Their most recent release, Diyezerk Canetis, is a summer compilation of culturally and musically diverse artists hailing from Palestine, South Africa, Puerto Rico, Dubai, Beirut and the USA to name a few.

One of the tracks we enjoyed the most was ‘Djembefola’ by Somalie, an artist born in Somalia and based in the desert of the Arab Emirates.

About the track, Somalie states:

“A tribalistic dance number for that booty, baby!”

Listen to the whole compilation here.

#Afro House #somalia #somalie #techfui #uae

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Clara! is a breeze of fresh air in the current reggaeton landscape

Brussels-based Spanish DJ, composer and vocalist Clara! has been responsible for some of the rawest reggaeton mixtapes of the last two summers, sometimes reminiscent of those Playero tapes that were distributed around San Juan in the 1990s that were precursors of the reggaeton genre.

Her most recent track, ‘El Ratón’, is a striking blend of lo-fi electronics and reggaeton with smartly rhymed lyrics sung in Spanish without reverting to the stereotypical Latin accent. Listen to ‘El Ratón’ below and get the whole album on French label Gravats.

#brussels #clara #gravats #Playero #reggaeton #Spanish

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Soundscape 016: Jowaa (Ghana)

MusicMap’s ‘Soundscape’ series is the easiest way to keep up with local music scenes and global trends. Every few weeks we visit a different country and ask someone familiar with the local scene to serve up a mix of the finest, freshest sounds in the area…

Following last month’s ear-opening trip to Lebanon, we now head south-west to the Gulf of Guinea for our latest Soundscape mix. This edition comes direct from Accra, home of Ghanaian producer Gafacci and Akwaaba Music boss BBRAVE, together known as Jowaa.

Offering a menu of “Afrobeats for the rave age”, the high-energy duo’s propulsive new EP Asokpor 1.0 shows they more than live up to their name, which translates as “dance hard” in Accra’s Ga language. Their soundscape mix is the latest and greatest evidence that Accra’s new wave of electronic music can compete with the internationally recognised music scenes of Luanda and Durban.

“There are different styles of music in Ghana but Jowaa represents dance music,” the duo explain. “In the tracklist are songs by artists whose music are like theme songs to people living in the coastal areas of Accra. Songs included in the list are by Ghanaian DJs, producers and artists who are riding their own waves in Ghana and the world.”

Soundscape 016: Jowaa (Ghana) – full tracklist

1. Nii Funny feat. Pino – Gbogbo 2. Patapaa – Pozo 3. Mr.Loyalty – One Corner instrumental 4. Mahogany Ent – Makokoo 5. Jowaa – Asokpor 1.0 6. Mahogany Ent – Lolo 7. Joey B – Chorkor Special 8. Mahogany Ent – Wa bo dam 9. Jowaa – Another Round 10. Nshona Muzik – Naano 11. Bryte – Je m’appelle 12. Akiti WroWro – Kokoti 13. Kayso – Go Gaga 14. GuiltyBeatz – Akwaaba 15. DJ Breezy – Kimpinstik 16. KoS – Stay Woke 17. TeshieBoi – Oogbo 18. Gasmilla – Ak3somorshi 19. Bandy Bwoy – Ajeei 20. Kojo Manuel feat. Lil Shaker – Akpa Show

Jowaa’s debut EP Asokpor 1​.​0 is available now on Bandcamp. You can also follow the duo on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Asokpor 1.0 by Jowaa

Photo: Sophie Garcia

#accra #Afro House #afrobeats #Akiti WroWro #Bandy Bwoy #BBRAVE #Bryte #DJ Breezy #Gafacci #Gasmilla #ghana #global bass #gqom #GuiltyBeatz #Joey B #jowaa #Kayso #Kojo Manuel #KoS #kuduro #Lil Shaker #Mahogany Ent #minimal house #Mr Loyalty #Nii Funny #Nshona Muzik #Patapaa #Pino #TeshieBoi

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Slovenia's Christian Kroupa remixes Yila's 'Better (Of) Me'

When British producer, performer, designer and musician Alastair McNeil (aka Yila) moved to Ljubljana, he not only found himself in one of Europe’s greenest and prettiest capital cities, but also in the middle of a rapidly developing music scene. As Nina Hudej of Warrego Valles put it to us recently, the “very impressive” scale of local art production, as well as events such as MENT Ljubljana, makes for a fertile creative environment.

This means that the former Róisín Murphy synths/fx/guitar player didn’t have to look far when searching for collaborators for his single ‘Better (Of) Me’ (recently released on Supremus Records). The track features dexterous harmonic interplay, several folktronic flourishes, and memorable melodies from Mina Špiler, lead singer in the legendary Slovenian industrial band Laibach (also, it turns out, the first western band to ever perform in North Korea).

It also features a remix from Logatec-born artist Christian Kroupa (aka Alleged Witches), a Red Bull Music Academy graduate whose appearances at Sónar in Barcelona and EMAF in Tokyo make him one of Slovenia’s most hottest electronic properties. He uses Spiler’s vocals to trigger a gently undulating intro, gradually ushering in waves of bass, snare and synth against an icily cool backdrop. Check out the original above and Christian Kroupa’s remix below.

#Alastair McNeil #Alleged Witches #Christian Kroupa #electronica #EMAF #folktronica #industrial #Laibach #MENT #Mina Spiler #Nina Hudej #North Korea #RBMA #Roisin Murphy #Solvenia #sonar #Supremus Records #Warrego Valles #Yila

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Feng Suave make cool-down music for humid days

Smooth, R&B-inflected guitar pop is not the first genre you’d associate with the Netherlands, or even Feng Suave’s home city of Amsterdam. However, the Dutch duo recreate a US West Coast breeze that could make you forget that they hail from a country that boasts of being one of the world’s wettest.

Slow burning, cool-down music for relaxed, humid days, fans of MorMor’s crooning or Arctic Monkeys’ recent fusion of ’90s beats and ’60s guitar styles will find instant pleasure in Feng Suave, while those who lean towards vintage ’80s jams will also hear plenty to make them shuffle.

Image: Pasqual Dominic Amade

#amsterdam #arctic monkeys #Feng Suave #indie #MorMor #pop #psych pop #R&B #washed out

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Premiere: Famitsu - You Get No Love

Part of the 160bpm-loving ‘Russian Ghetto Community’ that is Beryoza, Andrey ‘Famitsu‘ Ivanovsky is a producer from Saint Petersburg whose limitless sound is as refreshing as tiny raindrops on a stiflingly hot summer day. His debut EP Playing For Time was deemed one of the best releases of 2016 by Jamz Supernova (BBC Radio 1Xtra / Future Bounce), and now his new Virile EP is set to turn even more taste-makers onto his music.

Virile is Famitsu’s first release for Hyperboloid Records, a label with a knack for finding fresh, genre-hopping sounds, and it strafes the electronic music landscape with deadly accuracy. Rave synths, trancey pulses, flickering 2-step, woozy ambience, tripped out future beats and even the occasional hard-hitting thumper; when it comes to potent, far-ranging production then Virile more than lives up to its name.

To celebrate its release on June 16th, MusicMap has an exclusive taster in the form of ‘You Get No Love’ (above), one of several stand-outs on the record. A track that manages to both melt and chill your mind at the same time, its perfectly balanced combination of dreamy synth sweeps, heart-murmuring bass and uplifting vocal pearls mean that ‘You Get No Love’ will get plenty of love from those who appreciate a deep listen.

Pick up the full EP from Hyperboloid’s Bandcamp next Monday.

#1xtra #beryoza #Burial #dream catalogue #dreamy #Famitsu #future bounce #Hyperboloid #Jamz Supernova #saint petersburg #wavy

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Woxow: Music is one of the most powerful things we have to reach the masses

It’s fair to say that Woxow, like many people, isn’t exactly content with the state of the planet right now. In fact the Italian producer describes his debut album Alacazar as ‘a medium to describe a “malaise” about the way the world is ruled’ – a musical expression of displeasure which is underlined straight away by an intro based around the bass riff from ‘Bullet in the Head’.

However, Woxow is a world away from the aggressively confrontational approach of Rage Against The Machine. Awash with jazzy keys, conscious lyrics and boom bap beats, Alacazar is a record that more often evokes names such as those name-checked by MC Pugz Atomz in the opening bars: KRS One, A Tribe Called Quest and Stevie Wonder.

What’s more, his enterprising attitude and experience booking tours and running reggae festivals means he has managed to round up an array of collaborators to join him on his mission. From Jurassic 5’s Akil to retro soul singer Hannah Williams (not to mention the utterly legendary Ken Boothe), these guests all add their own flavour to the soup of samples that Woxow has prepared.

Following its release on Woxow’s own Little Beat More label (pick it up here and drink in that Moebius-esque cover), the Marseille-based musician offered MusicMap a few words of wisdom on Alacazar, protest music, and the “super special breakfast” he used to enjoy when working in London…

Firstly, what is the meaning behind the name woxow?

woxow: There’s not a real meaning. I wanted an original name so I started putting letters together and woxow naturally came out!!

Alcazar covers some heavy themes – modern slavery, materialism, globalisation, etc. What role do you think music should play in times of political tension and oppression?

Music is one of the most powerful things we have to reach the masses. It has always been a medium of protest. Imagine ‘Strange Fruit’ by Billie Holiday, which protested American racism in the late ’30s, or Nina Simone, or the work made by Massive Attack. Hip hop has always been used as a way to protest, reggae music as well; there’s a lot of work to be done, and music can make the difference, it’s direct and can be really tough. Even some festivals are celebrating this, Boomtown in UK has a full concept behind it, or Shangri-La at Glastonbury.

The album also features some impressive collaborators, including the legendary Ken Boothe. How did you choose your collaborations and make them happen?

I’ve made some researches, basically looking for rappers who could fit with the project. Then I just contacted them and made it happen, we live in a era where it’s an easy job to connect with people.

I’ve already collaborated with Blurum13 in the past, and Hannah Williams is a long time friend, I organised her very first Italian gig back in 2010.

Regarding Ken Boothe I had the pleasure to organise his gig in Marseille (where I live now) this last April. After having spent two days together I dropped the tune in the car, praying that he would be happy to sing the chorus and he said yes!! That’s something really unique because he actually does not do lots of featuring (he told me it was his very first one on a hip-hop beat with another rapper). Furthermore to me it represents a strong connection between the two music [genres] I love the most, hip hop and reggae, as on the same song I’ve got Akil from Jurassic 5 and Blurum13.

By the way, I didn’t press the full vinyl of the album, but there’s a nice 7” of this song on white vinyl, with a punchy remix on the b-side by my New Zealand friend K+Lab, check it out, the song is called ‘Chaos’.

Chaos (K+Lab Remix) feat. Ken Boothe, Akil from J5 & Blurum13 by woxow

What sort of music were you exposed to when you were growing up?

I started listening to trip hop and hip hop when I was 15 (mostly Italian hip hop), and then I’ve been hit by the reggae vibes and I went really crazy about it. I was a reggae selector and I organised a reggae festival for six years in my home town, we hosted Alton Ellis for one of his very last gig, then Mad Professor, Rodigan, Derrick Morgan, Dub Pistols, Pow Pow, Dub Incorporation and much more…

When did you start making your own music and what was it like?

I started doing mash-ups and remixes, you still can listen to them on my actual SoundCloud page.

You played a big role in the Italian reggae scene before moving to London. What prompted this move and how did it affect your work?

Our reggae festival was going very good but we had all the authorities against us, and this made the difference.

At the end I just decided to open another chapter, I wanted to spend some time in London because I knew the music scene there was the best ever, and I was already 26 so it was something like now or never. I’m glad I made it, I’ve seen so many gigs and bought so many records there. On the way to the place where I worked there was Rough Trade, so some mornings I was going for a super special breakfast: cappuccino, brioches and a record.

Can you send us a photo of the view from your window?

Sorry I’m currently traveling, but this picture from the hotel room here in Genova is better than the view from my window!!!! Genova is definitely one of the nicest Italian city where to go, highly recommended.

You’re a committed crate-digger – what’s your number one favourite record shop in the world?

There’s not a best one [but I feel I should] mention the one I really like now, Le Galette from Marseille.

Does your local environment influence the music you make?

To be honest for this debut album I’ve sampled lots of things from the web as well, so I would say no, I could have been everywhere and it would have sounded the same.

What’s your favourite track of 2018 so far?

Kiefer – Dope Nerd. There’s this solo with piano and trombone together, I would love to know who wrote it, who played it first and who was following. I found it really unique. To me the full album is one of the best so far.

Happysad by Kiefer

What are your hopes for the rest of the year – both personally and for the world at large?

I released Alcazar on my brand new record label Little Beat More and I’m currently working on two new upcoming artists and their debut albums, so that’s my musical focus now.

I really don’t know what to say about the world, we’re suffering a very big crisis, I just hope that more and more people will start seeing the world with different eyes and realise about all those lies they’re telling us.

I really hope as well that we’re gonna work out the immigration issue, that’s really terrible what is happening out there.

#Akil #Alton Ellis #Blurum13 #Boomtown #Derrick Morgan #Dub Incorporation #Dub Pistols #Genova #Hannah Williams #hip-hop #italy #Jurassic 5 #Ken Boothe #Kiefer #Mad Professor #marseille #Pow Pow #reggae #Rodigan #Rough Trade #Stones Throw #woxow

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TrapFunk & Alivio on favela parties and cross-cultural dialogue

Favela trap and baile funk favorites TrapFunk & Alivio are back with a new EP, Bota Kará on Subterrâneo Records. Produced alongside NYC’s Kashaka, Bota Kará includes also features a typically TrapFunk array of collaborations with both local and international producers and MCs. MusicMap reached out to ask them a few questions about Salvador favela parties, local heroes and cultural exchanges.

TrapFunk & Alivio was born in 2012/2013 after Felipe Pomar, aka Banha, gave a music production workshop in Salvador de Bahia. How has the collective changed since then?

TrapFunk & Alivio was consolidated with presentations at events inside and outside the baile funk favela community at the end of the year 2013. We noticed the reception of the public with our music and we thought: “Now the thing is serious!” (laughs). At the beginning we did a lot of remixes with some songs that were already mostly played in baile funk, after we started to produce our own tracks.

You’ve always collaborated with other producers and rappers such as Morena Leraba and Kashaka, and your EP Bóta Kará is an example of that. How important is for you to receive input from different artists and to create together?

Collaborations with artists from different parts of the world have always been part of our plan. We started these experiences 2 years ago with Kashaka from Brooklyn. He introduced us to the South African brothers, Morena Leraba and Mankind. Then we made collaboration with people from France, England and Holland. Also this month we will release an EP with afrobeat / afro fusion DJ Moma (Sudanese / North American). We believe that collaborations around the world provide a very interesting dialogue between cultures.

How do most people prefer to consume music in Salvador?

People in Salvador, Bahia – Brazil usually consume music in YouTube, SoundCloud and Spotify. There is a local music platform called “Sua Musica” which has a lot of flow as well.

What are the top things you’d suggest music fans visiting Salvador should go and see/do/eat/drink?

Who comes to Salvador, Bahia cannot miss the Festass de Largos / Paredões (party in favelas) in some neighborhoods of the city center: Federação, Santo Antonio Alem do Carmo, Engomadeira (Cabula), Nordeste de Amaralina (Espetinho), Cajazeiras 8, 10 and 11. Club Rio Vermelho is a good option on Saturdays. Drinks and local food are easy to find in these places.

Who’s your biggest local musical influence, past and/or present?

  We have some strong influences that are local: Firma Milionaria (group), A Invasão (band), A Bronkka (band), we listen to funk carioca from Rio de Janeiro, afrobeat and regional music from Bahia.

Which songs should MusicMap.Global readers not miss this summer?

You cannot miss listening to our Bota Kára EP.

  What are the biggest challenges faced by musicians in Brazil?

We are in the process of understanding the universe of digital music in the face of market transformations. It is very important that we are joining ourselves more and more in an organized way to make copyright laws viable. Everything seems very new.

Can you send us a photo of the view from your window?

View from my window in Julia Ferrero (Nordeste de Amaralina):

Interview: Anna Baqués Photo: Max Fonseca

#A Bronkka #A Invasão #afro #baile funk #Banha #brazil #carioca #DJ Moma #favela #Firma Milionaria #Kashaka #Mankind #Morena Leraba #salvador #Sua Musica #Subterrâneo Records #trap #trapfunk

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Francobollo get animated with plastic waste in 'We're Dead'

Rambunctious London-based Swedes Francobollo are famous for making memorable music videos, ranging from pustulous life-drawing classes to vengeful clumps of pubic hair (no, seriously). Their latest creation, a stop-motion masterpiece that accompanies Pinkerton-esque new single ‘We’re Dead’, is perhaps their best yet.

‘We’re Dead’ is, at its heart, a warning against the rising tide of plastic waste being continually created by human over-consumption and corporate resistance to using more sustainable materials. This being Francobollo, however, the message is delivered with playfully bizarre levels of invention, remaining persuasive but without being po-faced.

From fag-end filled pies to straw-dispensing nostrils, ‘We’re Dead’ shows that even if most plastic rubbish can’t be re-used, it can at least be re-purposed in order to make a brilliant music video. Even our furry friend from the ‘Wonderful’ video makes a brief cameo…

“Being passionate about filmmaking and music videos,” declare Francobollo, “we really wanted to make something that would be active whilst we have platform and peoples ears ‘n’ eyes. A song like We’re Dead, which deals with the slow deterioration of our wellbeing, needs a call to arms. We approached Samuel Lewis, a very talented and compassionate animator, with the track and he immediately responded with a tailspin of thoughts regarding plastic and its impact on us all. It was a perfect fit.”

“As a band of anxious cynics and surfers, we are concerned that we are all satisfied thinking that putting things into recycling bins is ‘job done’. Us the consumer could reduce our demand for products, but when are we ever going to do that? We love stuff! Can’t get enough of that good good stuff. It will take a massive shift in environmental policies at the top and a willingness to not profit from something to help us all help ourselves. Like your mother kicking you out and into nature away from Heroes of Might & Magic 3. It’s hard. But for the best. This is our attempt to raise awareness and join campaigners who we admire for their ceaseless work in trying to slow down our circling of the cosmic drain.”

#animation #environmentalism #Francobollo #indie #indie rock #london #plastic #sweden #Weezer

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IOTAPHI are reinventing classics from Greece and beyond

A project born in Los Angeles and nurtured from long-distance for three years before the recording of their debut EP, IOTAPHI is the new project of Ilia Darlin in collaboration with Francesco IX who are creating cinematic pop soundscapes outside the norm.

Inspired by both classical Greek themes and modern day issues, their mix of ethereal vocals with deep electronic beats are sometimes reminiscent of The Blaze, not to mention the stunning accompanying visual pieces.

In fact their debut video for ‘Kids of Chaos’ (below), which features female athletes from the Down Syndrome Association of Greece beautifully dancing a representation of the Big Bang, has just won a much deserved award at the Athens Short Film Festival, while it has also been nominated at other festivals like the Berlin Music Video Awards.

You can order a physical copy of their debut EP “Kloudland” on Amour Records.

#cinematic #down syndrome #electronic #film festival #Greece #ibiza #iotaphi #LA #los angeles #music video awards #pop #the blaze

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Interview: Cameron Butler takes us to 'Pink Nirvana'

As if putting out two albums last year wasn’t enough, Cameron Butler is already back with another, Pink Nirvana. The LP takes us on a hypnotic, sunshine filled journey, mixing elements of wavey, R&B and electronic music. Its slick production and wide range of lyrical topics caught our attention, in stark contrast to the current fad of mumble-rappers currently sprouting out of the USA.

Eccentric at times and certainly versatile, this youngster brings us the perfect soundtrack for the summer. We caught up with him to talk all things music below…

Hi Cameron! How are you? Congratulations on the new album release!

Cameron Butler: I’m doing just fine, thank you for asking! It’s been a rollercoaster lately, but I’m alive and well… and thank you!

Can you tell me about when you first started making music?

I first started back in 2010. I was just dabbling with sounds at 14 and well, here we are (laughs).

The new album Pink Nirvana seems to have a slightly different sound from your previous releases (Voyage to Ataraxia, Out The Ashes and Dark Days). Was that a conscious effort or something that happened naturally?

It was all natural really. My evolution as an artist is just a testament to where I’m at mentally and spiritually in life. With ‘Dark Days’, it was like I had this cloud over my soul. ‘Out The Ashes’ was the beginning of unfiltered transparency with my music. ‘Voyage’ was letting myself get into a looser energy and just stay in a constant state of high energy. ‘Nirvana’ is the gumbo of my entire journey so far, mixing every element of each of those albums into one cohesive body.

It seems that urban music, especially from the USA, leans more towards trap and mumble rap these days. However your new album seems to be more wavey sounding with some old school references. What are your musical influences, past and present?

I love trap music (laughs). The ‘trap’ sound is dope to me, always has been. What I like to do is accentuate that other styles can be just as pleasing to the ear, even when I mix subtle cadences of trap music into the songs. My main musical heroes are Jay-Z, Pharrell, Kanye West, and Kid Cudi but I take inspiration from damn near anything (laughs).

There are some really interesting collaborations on the album. How do you decide who to work with when making songs?

It has to make sense in my head, and I do collaborations usually by vocal frequencies. If I feel like a certain artist’s voice sounds fitting for the track, I’ll ask them for their assistance. It’s kind of difficult to explain but I see music as a puzzle. Some people don’t fit the spaces where others will, but everyone will find their way into their respected pockets.

Your music videos have a real DIY approach to them. How important is the visual aspect of music to you? Is that something you also consider with live performances?

To be completely honest, I didn’t realize the importance of visuals until I was watching a Busta Rhymes video and paid close attention to the different approaches used in a single video. Hype Williams is forever a legend in my eyes because he created some of the most eye-catching visuals when I was growing up. As far as live performances, if I can have a fitting visual, then I’ll do it. Otherwise, the music will have to paint the picture for the audience.

Speaking of concerts, where in the world would you love to play?

Japan, California, London, Egypt, Toronto, Australia, New Zealand, and almost anywhere in Central and South America.

You’re from New York but based in North Carolina. Why did you decide to move, and what are the main differences like between the two places?

My mother moved me and my younger brother down to the Carolinas so it wasn’t my choice, but she was doing what was best for us. I was 12 years old at the time so my knowledge on everything in general was limited. As far as differences, I love the city for the high energy that you receive as soon as you arrive. It’s electric. The South offers a peaceful and slightly cleaner environment though. It’s an escape from the rah-rah. But I love, need, and respect both so I take trips to NY when I can.

Most people tend to gravitate towards musical hubs like New York because of its rich music history which continues today. Is there a similar music scene like that in North Carolina at the moment – any great artists we should listen out for?

As far as the Carolinas collectively, we’ve got some great talent that’s truly blossoming here. My label mate Crosby is easily one of my favorite rappers from here. I just recently got connected with the homie WELL$ through his manager, Alec Lomami. Caterpillar Jones is originally from North Carolina but lives out in Las Vegas currently, he’s one of the most versatile artists that I’ve had the privilege of working with. In South Carolina, my label mates Contour and Infinitefreefall bring a unique sound to Charleston unlike anything else. There’s this dope artist by the name of Niecy Blues who also stays in Charleston and she’s super dope. We skrong outcherr!!

The music industry has changed a lot over the past few years. How have things like social media and music blogs changed the process of an artist, if at all?

Social media allows the fans to directly interact with their favorite artists and stay updated 24/7. It’s a nice tool to have indeed, I’m sure my reach wouldn’t move as fast without the use of it.

Finally, Cameron Butler, what’s your favourite album of all time?

This is a genuinely difficult question and I’m not sure if I can answer it, lol.

Top three influential albums over my life? The Black Album, Madvillainy, and Man On The Moon.

Thanks so much for speaking with us!

The feeling is reciprocated, thank you.

Interview by Roxy Shah

#beats #cameron butler #Caterpillar Jones #Contour #Crosby #hip-hop #Infinitefreefall #Jay-Z #Niecy Blues #north carolina #old school #trap #usa #WELL$

[musicmapglobal]

Merca Bae is set to conquer the world

One of our favourite acts at Sónar this year was Merca Bae with his epic session of Latin and contemporary club sounds. The London-based Spaniard has just recently signed with Perth Records and is now on a world tour, setting his sighs beyond the underground. Check this track featuring dancehall vocalist and Dise Records co-founder 45Diboss; a great introduction to his work and a perfect candidate for your Friday anthem.

Picture by Teresa Sala

#dancehall #experimental #fusion #Latin #post club #reggeaton #sonar #unorthodox

[musicmapglobal]

Sho Madjozi's "Huku" video is already a viral success

Sho Madjozi is the 25-year old South African star who has been blossoming over the last two years. After nearly a decade traveling around Africa and studying African Studies and Creative Writing in Massachusetts, she came back to her home country with a plan of making a living by ghostwriting for local rappers. However, her first appearance in a video with Okmalumkoolkat started to have people notice her. Her most recent video for the Gqom banger “Huku” sang in Swahili, tells a great summer story about a guy who is too shy to let Madjozi know about his feelings towards her. A month after its release the video has hit more than 500k views, gaining her fans across the continent, from Accra to Johannesburg and beyond.

#gqom #huku #Sho Madjozi #south africa #swahili

[musicmapglobal]

Premiere: 3615 Nuit Blanches - Dentelle Mécanique

Last year we lost ourselves in the luscious ‘long versions’ of 3615 Nuit Blanches’ About Last Night album, a record that took the Parisian duo’s originals and extended them to exquisite effect. Now we’re pleased to announce that Antonine and Arnault are returning with a new EP, Confession Intime, the first 3615 Nuit Blanches release to be written entirely in their mother tongue.

It’s not just the language either; ‘Dentelle Mécanique’, the first track from Confession Intime to be revealed, is as French as it comes. A synth-soaked surge of slow disco that depicts a lustful scene of lingerie-based seduction, it’s a sensual track that explores the chemistry between Antonine’s sultry vocals and Arnault’s euphoric production. Listen to the exclusive premiere below:

“We could simply say that “Dentelle Mécanique” is a song about lingerie,” 3615 Nuit Blanches muse, “but it’s actually much more than that. It’s about the way you play with it, about teasing, in its most sensual and classiest form. How one could take control over the other with slight moves, eye contact, and absolutely no touching. The art of mastering that wicked game of seduction and lust.”

If that’s got your heart racing, stick June 28th in your diary – that’s when Confession Intime is released in full by L.O.V.E. Ltd.

#3615 Nuits Blanches #disco #electro #france #French Touch #L.O.V.E. Ltd #Paris #seductive #sex #slow disco

[musicmapglobal]

Bitori, from censorship to repping Cape Verde's funaná worldwide

Although Bitori’s musical adventure began in 1954 by acquiring a gaita in Sao Tomé and Principe to bring back to Cape Verde, he didn’t achieve major global recognition until two years ago, when his classic album Legend Of Funaná (The Forbidden Music of The Cape Verde Islands) was reissued by German label Analog Africa.

Since then he’s toured more than 13 countries, spreading the infectious and raw rhythm of the funaná genre, a style that was prohibited by the Portuguese colonialists until Cape Verde’s independence in 1975. Now at 80 years old he’s still playing worldwide with equally passionate musicians, as you can watch below.

You can catch Bitori play live this summer at Roskilde festival in Denmark on 5 July.

#Analog Africa #bitori #Cape Verde #funana #funaná music #São Tomé #womex

[musicmapglobal]

World Cup Playlist 2018 - A track from every country

You may not have noticed – it’s generally a pretty low-key affair – but a certain international tournament kicks off today. A month-long festival of flowing football, scowling strikers and fans sporting elaborate face-paint, Russia 2018 may have been birthed in suspicious circumstances but the on-pitch action promises plenty of thrills, spills and telly breaks (‘cos of VAR yeah? Get with the program.)

Of course, one of the greatest things about any world cup is seeing fans from different nations coming together to celebrate the beautiful game (with the exception, perhaps, of the traditional meet ‘n’ greet between Russian and English fans). The cosmopolitan carnival aspect of the event holds obvious appeal to us here at MusicMap, so we’ve decided to try and replicate it in musical form.

Hence, our 2018 World Cup Playlist: a one-stop shop to some of the most exciting emerging music coming out of the countries taking part. Featuring a track from every nation, you can expect to hear Colombian cumbia, Croatian techno, Brazilian hip-hop, Danish dream-pop, Egyptian rave, Mexican footwork, South Korean slow jams, Portuguese batida, Nigerian afrobeats… and that’s barely skimming the surface.

What’s more, every time a team wins we’ll add another track from that country (follow us on Twitter for updates on that front). So if you’re a fan of French touch or German minimal then you may be in luck…

For now though, enjoy the opening 32 tracks of our World Cup playlist, in the order that each country plays…

And for a special opening game bonus, here’s an extra playlist featuring over two hours of underground Russian music, originally sourced by our scout in Moscow…

#A.Fruit #Abra Cadabra #Akim #Aphrotek #baribal #Beastie C #CATNAPP #cherry coke #Countess Malaise #Draganov #Eli Almic #Erick del Aguila #Errorsmith #HVNCOQ #Jannah Beth #Kid Og+ #Late Verlane #Lean Chihiro #Lord Pusswhip #Mahdyar #Menores #Mettani #Mitú #Molina #Nakury #Nkisi #Olamide #P. Adrix #playlist #Ribongia