Posted by Rob Critical

The same formula applies from a previous time. These are releases that I highly anticipated. These are releases that stayed in heavy rotation and had longevity in which ever way music is heard. These are releases that I listened to in their entirety and said to myself, “Fuck, this is one damn collection of good music”.

With the abundance of music and the ease of obtainment, catching up to releases can be a little challenging. So, I realize that I may have missed a lot. And some may wonder why such and such is not on the list. It’s not because I didn’t like it. It’s probably because I just didn’t get a chance to listen to it. Got to keep the listen honest to what I listened to. I will go on to say that Kendrick Lamar’s Section.80 was the best of 2011.

Quick disclaimer, though. These are my views on the music I like and not necessarily the views of the rest of the HA and company. With that said, here goes forty-two of my favorites from 2011, listed in alphabetical order by artist. Happy New Years everyone (even if it is a day late)!

PEACE

Posted by Rob Critical

I’m just going to make an assumption (again, it’s only an assumption) and say that I’m sure Marc and Clint have been like, “Why the hell is Rob so vocal about a woman in stretchy pants all of a sudden?”.

I’ve made a comment on Facebook about it a while ago and got sent a YouTube link to Flynt Flossy’s ode to those wonderful garments. Glad to know that I’m not the only one with this obsession and that I can use this to explain the said obsession.

Dear H&M and American Apparel. Thank you for your contribution. I’m still wondering if Charlie Murphy is Flynt Flossy. Yeezy shrug to that, I suppose.

BTW, yes. This joint is on iTunes.

C’MON!!! It’s Monday! We all could use a sense of humor at the beginning of the week.

PEACE

Posted by Rob Critical

Today is the born day of the legendary man shown above. I can probably spend hella time talking about my standom of Dilla. But, I’m sure you’re here to download a link. I will say this, it started when I purchased the CD single of The Pharcyde’s “She Said” back in 1996.

But anyways, everyone should send extra appreciation to Detroit’s Hip Hop Ambassador, House Shoes. Last week, he just let a loose a link to the tribute of his close friend, The King James Version Chapter 1: Verse I-V. Put some headphones on and kick back. This mix, containing samples from Dilla’s productions, is an experience for sure.

DOWNLOAD: The King James Version Chapter 1: Verse I-V [via House Shoes Twitter]

Posted by Rob Critical

This is a new version of K.R.I.T.’s “Neva Go Back” is definitely smooth, as Grillade provides some melodic sounds.

LINK: Big K.R.I.T. – Neva Go Back (Feat. Grillade)

I do feel compelled to provide some back story. Last Spring (2010), Whiz, from the HNRL, asked me, “Did you hear that new Big K.R.I.T.?”, referencing to K.R.I.T.’s last project. I replied, “I have not”. Whiz then gave me that look. You know, that look that says, “C’mon dude, you’re missing out”. So, I did listen to it. Ended up listening hella much. I know the HA Boys are diggin’ it. It was on my Top 42 or 2010. Probably one of the best Hip Hop albums/mixtapes of last year, actually. However, one of my favorite tracks from K.R.I.T. has to be “Shake Junt“. Joint knocks! I could swear that is a Willie Hutch sample.

But, since I have the soapbox and I’m on one of my favorite subjects, that being Hip Hop… Something that Whiz and I have been discussing for the past few years are XXL Freshmen 10 predictions. Not that I have any affiliation with XXL, but here goes what I think:

1. Big K.R.I.T.
2. Kendrick Lamar
3. Dom Kennedy
4. Vado
5. CyHi Da Prince
6. Diggy Simmons
7. Lil’ B
8. Mac Miller
9. Chip the Ripper
10. Smoke DZA

Posted by Rob Critical

Here goes that one joint, “Atiba Song”, by Panda Bear. From the recent Atiba Jefferson and Ty Evans short film. Check the link below.

DOWNLOAD: Panda Bear – “Atiba Song” »

[via GvB by way of IGIF]