Guilty Simpson - Ghettodes

Guilty Simpson's 'Ghettodes'

Guilty Simpson for those that don't know was an associate of J Dilla's. I believe his debut came on the fantastic Jay Dee and Madlib collaboration 'Jaylib' from there he has appeared on numerous Stones Throw records seemingly inserting himself in that collective after Dilla passed away. In terms of solo material he has one LP which features production from Black Milk, Oh No, J Dilla, Madlib, Mr. Porter, etc. 'Ode to the Ghetto' which was released in 2008 and in my mind is one of the premier examples of the Detroit sound. Many people dislike Guilty because of the supposed simplicity of his rhymes I find his flow and style more than make up for his lack of multi-syllable performances. 'Ghettodes' is a remix album of 'Ode to the Ghetto' done completely by Oh No as I believe a promotional tool for the original release of 'Ode to the Ghetto'. Some of the tracks here aren't as imaginative as their counterparts on 'Ode to the Ghetto' some of the tracks here are levels above their counterparts. In general just a cool and refreshing vision of an already cool and refreshing record. Guilty has a record with Madlib and a record with Black Milk and Sean Price both supposedly coming out within the next six months.

Guilty Simpson - Ghettodes (2008)

The Albert Ayler Trio - Spiritual Unity

Albert Ayler's Spiritual Unity

Albert Ayler's 'Spiritual Unity' is a landmark free jazz record. The lack of updates on here have been due as expected to the hustle of every day. When it comes to my own personal relaxation from that type of stress it is nice to just sit down and hear a record with this level of involvement. I think this album really embraces exploring the subtle nuances of improvisation. It explores a realm of free jazz while at the same time still appealing to those who may not be fully devoted to the genre and looking to attempt to dive in feet first should definitely give this a spin.

The Albert Ayler Trio - Spiritual Unity (1964)

Have a Nice Life - Voids

Have a Nice Life's 'Voids'

As is the case with most recording sessions Have A Nice Life's 'Deathconsciousness' left a few b-sides that have been complied into this bootleg collection. Featuring an EP of 'Deathconsciousness' demos as well as an EP featuring tracks not included on 'Deathconsciousness' 'Voids' fills in the blanks as to where Have a Nice Life's sound came from. The songs here are more atmospheric, more indebted to post punk, and in general a little more easier to follow along. 'Sisyphus' is texturally the most impressive HANL song I've heard and 'Destinos' shows the bands knack for instrumental beauty. If you enjoyed their release last year I suggest giving this a look.

Have a Nice Life - Voids (2009)