“I do this for you!”

So starts Blitz The Ambassador’s Stereotype, one of the most impressive hip-hop albums in 2009. Strong, demanding lyrics backed up with live instrumentation are somewhat rare in hip-hop. And yet, there’s no denying the impact when such a successful combination of a powerful emcee with impressive musical artists is pulled off.

Editor's note:
With so much music churned out on a daily basis, it'easy to get lost in the shuffle and miss out on some goodies. But fret not, Kevin Sakoda has come to your rescue. For all that fresh underground newness, you can tune in to Kevin Sakoda's show, The Downlow, on KSPC (88.7 FM, Claremont, CA) every Saturday from 5PM to 7PM. You can also listen in live online (www.kspc.org) or hit the archive on Kev's MySpace blog. For those in need of a quick fix, make sure to check the Top 30 every week. Click on the play button on your right and enjoy!

This Week's Adds

DJ Center ::: Leave The City Outside (feat. Oddisee)

Lupe Fiasco ::: I'm Beamin'

Rhymefest ::: How High (feat. Little Brother)

Shadowman Boogie ::: The Choice

Statik Selektah ::: So Close So Far

Editor's note:
With so much music churned out on a daily basis, it'easy to get lost in the shuffle and miss out on some goodies. But fret not, Kevin Sakoda has come to your rescue. For all that fresh underground newness, you can tune in to Kevin Sakoda's show, The Downlow, on KSPC (88.7 FM, Claremont, CA) every Saturday from 5PM to 7PM. You can also listen in live online (www.kspc.org) or hit the archive on Kev's MySpace blog. For those in need of a quick fix, make sure to check the Top 30 every week. Click on the play button on your right and enjoy!

This Week's Adds

Apathy ::: I'm a Demigod

Blestenation ::: In a Hurry

Freeway & Jake One ::: She Makes Me Feel Alright

Metamorphosis ::: Raw Raw Rugged (feat. C-Rayz Walz)

Thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by the recent disasters in Haiti. My family is among the many that have suffered loss. Ive been thinking of ways that I can be of optimal value to ongoing relief efforts. One of the things Ive decided to do is to dedicate my song, Souls, to the country. The song has been recognized with a John Lennon Songwriting Award in the recent past and it strikes an appropriate chord during these times of hardship. Let us all take advantage of this distinct opportunity to let our souls shine. Help however you can.

- Rob Murat

“Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken… to love is to be vulnerable.”
– CS Lewis

Sade Adu’s ability to appeal to such a wide audience comes from her willingness to be vulnerable and abandonment while addressing relationships. Her music consistently offers a stripped down, yet sophisticated exploration of the intricacies of love, both the beautiful aspects and the heart-dismantling elements, presenting each in a way that provides comfort and compassion. Put it simply, Sade makes us feel like we’re not alone. Her writing dissects real emotions, her voice rich and evocative, and when presented alongside the production of longtime collaborator Mike Pela, the finished product comes off feeling like a strong hug from a close friend.

Melanie Fiona made waves when she opened for Kanye West on his 2008 European tour -- she hadn't even released an album then. Her debut came late last year: The Bridge, as far as I'm concerned, stands among the best musical offerings of 2009. You've not heard the last of the talented Melanie Fiona. She aims to spread her music all over the world and connect with the people as exemplified in this series of street performances. Read on, watch and enjoy.