VIDEO: FKA TWIGS x "WATER ME"

Directed by Jesse Kanda

I am equally taken by the visual product of a gifted and seemingly unapologetic scatterbrain, as I am the mesmerising, fluid, psychedelic UK beauty that is, FKA Twigs. The blend of strophic, melancholic tunes that are characteristic to "background music" -- the sort you allow to linger while engaging in activities of the creative sort, combined with fidgety, stop-motion techniques that has not been present in music video since Hype Williams in the 90s. It is that taste that brought me to doorstep of FKA Twigs's wonderful design of expression. I believe this photo was my introduction to her; I recall thinking how incredibly brilliant and fitting of her to inscribe the word Love on her forehead using her hair.
Growing up, I was a big fan of Artists like Sade, Sinead O'Connor and Madonna; my mum played the heck out of the "Nothing Compares" record and album so much so, the tune evolved into a childhood staple for me. When I hear music that's even remotely reminiscent of similar sentiments that were stirred from listening to songs from the Artists mentioned, I am immediately drawn to it. I'm naturally self-absorbed; I function best within me, and I love music and allows me that luxury and satisfaction.
FKA Twigs is an Artist out of London and to be honest, that's the much I know. Ah! My infatuation with Artists who are vague, and with layers unknown, on display yet again. Same was seen with my initial review on The Weeknd and most recently, BANKS. It allows the music to be heard and the potency to be felt much more deeper when you know the quality of the Art over that of the Artist. An element of allure that is beyond what is practiced and expected in this day and age. Click here for more FKA Twigs. Peace.

VIDEO: SOLANGE x "LOSING YOU"

Directed by: Melina Matsoukas

I think my brief absence from blogging more than exempts me from my being late in posting this video. As I'm sure a majority of you have had the pleasure of indulging in wonderful overflow of culturally-ridden piece of expression. I learned about the Sapeur culture a bit over a year ago via a friend of mine and since then have not ceased thinking of the tasteful sense of its magnitude and extravagance. I enjoy the element of juxtaposition present here; first with the message and energy of the song, then with the visuals and message of the song. Peace.

ALBUM: THE INTERNET x PURPLE NAKED LADIES

As OFWGKTA's The Internet is gearing for the release of their newest project titled, "Feel Good" -- due out the 24th of this month, I, somewhat regretfully, am just now getting wrapped up entirely by the euphoria that was "Purple Naked Ladies". Now, it has been a while, so I don't expect the lot of you to recall my ranting and raving about the feel of their Love Song -1, I did not even stop to consider that that track was simply a prelude of things-to-come. So, naturally, the release of this project went entirely over my head - until now. I am thoroughly taken by the idea that physically, they seem an oddity -- an unlikely pair, but damn, they make incredibly great, timeless music. You can almost feel the energy lift from each song and sort of isolates you from everything, but that song. Phenomenal. I've had the album on replay for the past week and just had to share. Peace.

TEFF x COMPANY | T & ANDY ALLO

- [13-5-13] - When I got word I was scheduled to do a fitting for Cameroonian-born, LA-based singer-songwriter, guitarist, and all-around Artist, Andy Allo,naturally, I grew excited, being that this was my first celebrity fitting. My client Kibonen is of Cameroonian descent as well, and prides herself on boasting the accomplishments of her country-folk. Through those conversations, I learn about a wide range of great acts and talents. And I, myself, am particularly fond and especially proud to learn about my fellow African-born Artists. For those of you who don't know, Andy is best recognised for her work with none other than the quintessential, Prince (the Artist formally known as --). I got the opportunity to watch her rehearse for the SESAC awards and was immediately amazed and how her voice filled the room. Now, mind you, she stands at a humble 5'3; I remember, 'cause I kept teasing her. I also made it a point to appoint her my West-side connect, citing the fact that we both hail from West Africa, and she resides in the west coast. She was such a pleasure, and we literally laughed all the way through the fitting, and even had time to do a bit of window-shopping. Click here to learn more about the Artist. Peace.

VIDEO: BANKS x "THE WAITING GAME"

Directed by: Francesco Carrozzini

- Listen. When there's something so overwhelmingly compelling about a tune that I must listen to madly consecutively, it's natural that I must share it. That's the same recurring theme with a majority of my music posts on here, at D&&D. Especially when we're speaking on the wildly infectious sound of one of my favourite producers right now, Sohn. He embodies and produces the quality of music that's fitting for any given situation. At least, I can say so boldly in terms of myself. I have sought refuge in his music more times than I can care to mention. As many of you know, I am incredibly fond of Soulful, moody, melancholic, strophic tunes. So, naturally, upon learning of LA-based Artist, Banks, and already, I love her. Why? I love that I don't much about her, but her music. I can't even begin to explain how alluring that minimalistic factor is to me when cultivating fondness for an Artist. Similar thing with The Weeknd; the ability to maintain that element of mystery is nearly sacred to me. Watch + enjoy; this particular tune is my favourite so far off the London EP. Peace.

VIDEO: JMSN x "ALONE"

Directed by: JMSN.

When a small piece of you, boldly intrinsic in nature, roars and commands the attention of a stimulant and you are left, a subject to its bidding. I am a slave to that small bit of me. Call it the inherent, pulsating desire of the subconscious to seize -- call it whatever. Love is native to this space. Art is native to this space. Passion is native to this space. Expression is native to this space.

Now, I have had this song on repeat for the past month or so and, frankly, as usual, I felt compelled to share. Ironically enough, a past Lover urged me to revisit the ambient, mood-demanding sounds of Detroit, Michigan native, JMSN. He concluded so on my unwavering fixation on Torontoan, The Weeknd; he was right. The appeal here lies in the diversity. See, I always find myself drawn to multifaceted Artists -- those who do not restrict expression to one, single medium of Art. Besides, if you believe yourself an Artist, there is a very strong possibility your prowess is not limited to the confines of the Art you excel and/or practice the most. Anyways, drawing back to the point-at-hand -- JMSN is not only a singer, but a designer, producer, music engineer -- to name a few. He wears many hats, and does so, well. I have strong admiration for the fact he wrote and produced, †Priscilla†, then went on to direct the videos as well.

This particular track stood out to me the most; it's very reflective of my current state; both mental and physical. Peace.

VIDEO: FAMILY BAND x "MOONBEAMS"

Directed by - Sam Macon | Cinematographer - Travis Auclair.

A toast -- to the unending quest for quality and the brand of conscience and enlightenment it brings along. The ability to elude the evidently abundant frivolities the inter-web world has to offer and reach and grab a firm hold on a piece of work worth experiencing, indulging and sharing. To delve into minds and distinguish the difference between those with sight and, those with vision. Which brings me to one of my favourite past-times -- perusing the ever-so diverse, Love-assuring, and awe-inspiring compendium that is Vimeo's coveted "Staff Pick".

Which is what brought about my stumbling onto this fine work here by Brooklyn-based folk band, with an ambient, dark, mood-commanding, haunting flare, comprised of frontwoman, Kim Krans and husband,Jonny Ollsin. I was most captivated by the freeze frame, then eventually, the choice of concept and its translation in the visuals; it's a tasteful concoction of gleefully grim. I could not resist; it aroused that desire to embrace that which is foreign and unknown to me. I mean, upon the start of video, you're almost immediately lured in and forced to wonder what might have brought about the idea for the video. To me, it's a direct reflection of the essence Life and Love -- the overwhelming desire to seek someone who is as willing to dwell in the light, as they are in the dark; so long as that dwelling is with you. Beautiful. Peace.

VIDEO: TORO Y MOI x "NEW BEAT"

Directed by: Scott Ross.

It's unlike me to feel this disconnected from music. The only entity capable of garnering my attention in abundance is Love. Then, of course, there's music. It's been a three and a half scores since I posted anything music-related on here. And, for that, I am deeply sorry -- to you and to myself. What better way to break the ice none other than one of my new-found favourites from Toro Y Moi simply 'cause I just learned most recently that we were nearly birthday mates (he's 7th of Nov., mine is on the 8th).

I'm a big admirer of effortless cinematic cool, especially in music videos. That's a sure element the music world seems to be missing nowadays, you know? I feel that's needed. The new-age formulaic way of creating and executing videos is not at all suitable to my liking, for the most part.

VIDEO: AZEALIA BANKS x "1991"

Directed by: Justin Mitchell.

Just as it proves difficult to enjoy your favourite Artist's music when amid a large, roaring, eager crowd, the same effect translates in seeking out a new Artist with an overwhelming amount of reception. You await the hype, anticipate its thinning out to. Waiting, sifting through all the hype to allow the music to properly sink in and create a space for better assessment, free of influences from others. That case was no different when it came down to the meddling in the sounds of the beautiful and seemingly bubbly, yet bold, Harlem native, Azealia Banks. I heard numerous reviews on her hit single, "212" and grew curious on what she had to offer musically. It now pleases me to admit - after months of stalling - to admit that I am smitten. This song serves as my introduction to Azealia and I can't seem to get enough.

I am especially taken by the capture and fine execution of the 90's essence, look, style and sound. From the lyrical content, to her garments, to her body language, to the dancers; it all just came together perfectly. From the moment I saw the video, I was itching to share it with you lot, even though I was certain a majority of you has seen it. In the off-chance that you are yet to, enjoy. Explore Azealia Banks; she really is a force to be reckoned with. Peace.

EP: YUNA x "DECORATE"

I have been on a seemingly endless search of the slightest bit of the soulful, Malaysian-born and ever-so Lovely Yuna's music to share with you lot, assuming you haven't any knowledge of her just yet. Alas! I discovered her EP titled, "Decorate", dated at a bit over a year ago. I allowed the thought of her making music for the span of a year (or so) and my familiarity with her is [only] a little over 5-months-old to linger and I cringed. It seems like all my favourites from her don't have a video nor are they available on her Sound cloud. "Photo of You" is absolutely Divine and stays on constant repeat. Do your Spirit a favour and fall in Love with Yuna. Fall hopelessly and deliriously; enjoy. Peace.

VIDEO: JESSE BOYKINS III x "THE PERFECT BLUES"

Directed by: Dr. Woo

Jesse Boykins III is one of very few of today's Artists who possesses the ability to capture the essence of his music visually, each song, each time. That keen attention to detail and connection with his creative self is what I find most alluring about him. Not to mention, that wild, voluminous mane of his.
As soon as the video started, I was transported back to the moment when I first heard it, via Tumblr. Before I knew it, I began singing along and feeling the energy of the song permeate my Being without permission. I enjoy when that happens; I enjoy creating or feeling a connection to a song - to music in general. Embrace the essence as it radiates through the eruption of myriad of colours and images of wonder and immeasurable beauty of Japan. The visual is great; makes me Love the song all the more and there isn't much left to say. Peace.

VIDEO: LOCKE KAUSHAL x "LET THERE BE"

VA-bred, rising Hip-Hop Artist, Locke Kaushal earned my allegiance almost immediately upon being charmed by his performance last year, opening for Dom Kennedy and Big K.R.I.T. at N.C A&T's Aggie Fest. I met him shortly after the show, expressed to him how pleased I was to make his acquaintance and commended him on giving his heart on stage. In an effort to deepen my knowledge on his music, I anxiously got on the computer and began searching. To my pleasure, I heard his H.A.M. Freestyle and Rich Man Begging and I was sold. I publicly lent my allegiance to him via Twitter; told him he'd gained a believer. It pleases me to admit that nearly over a year later, I still hold similar sentiments. Having heard some of his latest tracks titled, "let there be" and "Oxford 64" and observed the growth, I grew excited - yearned to hear more. And, as a Lover of music, you crave that feeling, anticipate it often; it's partly what keeps the passion alive. You understand? Peace.

AUDIO: KENDRICK LAMAR x "SWIMMING POOLS" [DRANK]

- Came into the realization that my blog has been missing a bit of none other than the sounds of the amazing King Kendrick himself. Fortunately, my ears just got blessed with his newest track titled, "swimming pools (drank)" and it immediately dawned on me, "this is exactly what I've been lacking - a bit of Kendrick Lamar." He still holds the title as one of my favourites (I really want to call him a rising Artist, but he is apparently above that) simply because he continues to remain engulfed by the ability to deliver in a manner that commands.

PHEO x CALIFORNIA SEX [EP]

There is something, incredibly intimate about an EP. I mean, it's like, the Artist takes it upon him or herself, depending, to cultivate a minimum amount of tracks that caters to their sense of Artistry, that still speaks true to a sense of completion. This ideology transcends into my intake of this compilation by California native and Hip-Hop artist, Pheo. The title alone exposes a bit of what the content of the compilation dictates; the seemingly calm, easy-going essence of California-living, amplified by the implication of well, sex.

The tracks generally encourage the warmth of Summer and the need to just lay back, crack open a brew and just chill. This EP is my first introduction to the artist, Pheo and I am thoroughly impressed, to say the least. And, it has definitely been thrown into my Summer playlist. Enjoy; Peace.

VIDEO: CASEY VEGGIES x "VERIFIED"

Directed by: The Topshelf Company

Caset Veggies releases his first visual from his latest project titled, Customized Greatly V.3. I believe I mentioned this as my one of my favourite tracks from the project, so you can imagine my excitement upon learning of a release of corresponding visuals. And, it concludes at 3:33. 3 is the number that represents me best in case you're wondering about my bubbbling infatuation with it. Peace.

VIDEO: PHLO FINISTER x "BANG BANG"

Directed by: Camille Benett I've heard this song, though not sure where. Great song and stunning visuals. Peace.

VIDEO: A$AP ROCKY x "GOLDIE"

Directed by: A$AP Rocky My infatuation and overflowing approval of the A$AP Mob has its origin in their heavy similarity to my all-time favourite Rap crew, No Limit Soldiers. Excluding the harmonious blend of that Uptown, New York essence which is what is masterminding their prominence in today's music scene. And may earn them a spot in the list of rap legends in the future, I believe.

"Goldie" is the first single off of A$AP Rocky's debut album titled, Live.Love.A$AP which I hear is due out in the summer; July, I believe. Not only is he gifted in presence, delivery and distinction, he is also very talented in the directorial aspect. The concept of this video is unlike anything I have seen in the past 5-10 years from most mainstream artists; it's extravagant, oozes luxury - reminiscent of the 90s Bad Boy regime. I dig it. Peace.

PHLO FINISTER x CROWN GOLD | EP

How ironic is it that I discovered Phlo Finister's music upon the submersion of various episodes of Disney's "Recess"? Sure, there's the slight difference between Finster and Finister, but at first glance, I did not notice. Muriel P. Finster plagued the playground something terrible, didn't she? But, I digress.

Upon giving this EP a listen, I was immediately taken by her bold choices in instrumentals. And, by its completion, I can firmly state she did them justice. This young Queen possesses a soulful sound similar to that of Erykah Badu, which she sampled one of my personal favourites, "bag lady" on the fast track. Phlo goes on to sample Tupac's classic track, "Hail Mary". Intrigued to see what more Phlo has to offer to the music world. Visit her personal site to keep up. Click the jump to see her latest video. Peace.

VIDEO: ERIC SOSA x "HATE"

Directed by: Joe Cavallini.
Eric Sosa is one of those Artists, equipped with a passion-filled flow, unlike any other you have ever had the pleasure of being familiar with. This track titled, "Hate" stands as a testament to the fabric of his aesthetics. I like to believe the fact he performs with a live-band amplifies his musical essence. Something about the blend of alternative rock, Rap, and Hip-Hop generates a greater sense of appreciation for the Artist that is Eric Sosa or any other Artists that employ a similar blending method. I sincerely urge you to get acquainted with him and enjoy; I trust that you will. Peace.

MIXTAPE: CASEY VEGGIES x CUSTOMIZED GREATLY V.3

I learned of Casey Veggies sometime between early-to-mid last year on feature tracks from some Artists I enjoy. Shortly after listening to Dom Kennedy's "CDC", my enjoyment for Casey's music gained a bit more solidity, then I heard this -- CG: VOL.3. Of course, I did my research; I looked up the 2 volumes that preceded this release to get further acquainted.
My favourite track has to be, "verified". Whose idea was it to sample the Notorious One, B.I.G's "spit your game" on "Euphoria III"? Brilliant. Enjoy; peace.