OSHUN is comprised of New York vocalists Niambi Sala and Thandiwe whom recently dropped a video for their track “Gyenyame”, which is a track off their “AFAHYE” EP which dropped in March. Drawing inspiration from everyday experiences, the two embody spirit, nature and the universe with this record and create an outer body experience with their divine frequencies. The name of their single “Gye Nyame” is a Ghanaian term meaning “the supremacy of God” which is epitomized in the video with West African deities illustrating the power of knowing where you come from and emphasizing the importance of knowing your history and paying homage to ancestors who paved the way before. Stream the video below and make sure you pay close attention to OSHUN, they have something fresh and new to offer the music industry and we are excited to follow their journey. And as always…
Atlanta-bred beauty takes her music into her own hands: she writes, sings and even is a self-taught producer. Abra kicked off her flourishing career by covering popular southern hip hop songs on YouTube. It wasn’t long before Awful Records (Atlanta based label) brought her under their wings. The vocal goddess sound is completely different and refreshing. The sultry singer has combined her love for R&B, house and 90’s pop with an upbeat dance vibe which can be heard on her latest EP, Roses. Abra has not lost her hunger and still writes her own lyrics and creates her own beats, she still records out of her walk in closet that’s in her parents’ house. She may not have the bells and whistle of a professional studio which creates a competent polished sound, but it’s original. Abra’s music tends to favor low bass lines and distortions, which pair well with her high-pitched, slightly edgy voice. Each song deals with real life situations we all can relate to, clarifying topics about friendships and break-ups, to mistakes and lessons learned from personal experiences. Since embarking in the music scene Abra has released two mix tapes: “BLQ Velvet” in January of last year, and “Rose” five months after. Below is her latest 12-track project “ROSE” press play and get lost inside her world. And as always…
The London-based Tanzanian artist Tiggs Da Author releases his latest uplifting energetic single “Run” featuring the magical Lady Leshurr. The 25 year old poet, rapper, singer, songwriter and producer is inspired by obscure 60s narrative film, East African Jazz and Motown. His resulting sound is very rare to say the least. In his latest track “Run” Tiggs explains escaping life’s troubles with a distinctively reminiscent style of a modern day Ray Charles. Encouraging listeners not to let life’s dramas bring you down and sometimes it’s better to just run! Tiggs is accompanied by the lovely Lady Leshurr who adds a warm vibe that makes you want to dance and sing along instantly. Already making headway this track appeared on Fifa ’16 and ITV’s 2015 Rugby World Cup trailer. Shot in South Africa this video accents the catchy lighthearted lyrics perfectly with shots of people hanging out of cars while gusheshe drifting (a popular phrase in South African culture), dope breakdancing and choreographed dancers running throughout the fun kinetic clip. Check out the video below and as always…
The dreadlocked whiz kid from the six is back with more nostalgic visuals for your pleasure. Jazz Cartier a Toronto nomad teams up with director Kyle Sanderson to drop two videos in one, combining “The Valley/Dead or Alive.” Both songs coming off his debut mix tape “Marauding in Paradise” which was released in 2015. The mysterious rappers versatility radiates over the boom-bap production while adding a unique OVO-contagious style that analysis his hometown from a bird’s eye view. Starting off trekking through the night Jazz welcomes everyone to the dark side of his city during the first part of this video, while subtly transforming to a softer lighter tone during the second, all while retaining the same intensity and creating an effective sound that embodies duality. The cinematography is filled with cryptic material which accents the artist lyrics to perfection. Demonstrating his strong will to survive and succeed in spite of the surrounding hate. We expect this year to be Cartier breakthrough year and look forward to more content. Press play on the link below and tell us what you think.
Da Bassment’s Eargasm of the Week goes to “New Religion” by California-based singer Johnny Rain. Although Rain hasn’t exactly broken through into national recognition yet, he is well on his way. With his polished sound and unorthodox approach to music. This new uplifting single off his latest project titled “11” is a masterpiece. That instantly grabs your attention with its high-energy acoustic instruments accompanied by inspirational lyrics about using love as religion. “New Religion” gives off a subtle gospel feel with an undertone of repetitive handclaps that has become synonymous with songs being sung in church. Creating a joyful and pleasant sound that instantly draws you in with melodic chord progression and a voice that soothes the soul. Giving you the feeling that everything will be alright while focusing on topics that most artist seldom speak on, Johnny takes you to church so to say with this song of celebration. Radiating good vibes through the speakers “New Religion” is a song that you can listen to while cleaning your room or motivation before riding to work. Press play on the song below, and you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you stay tuned for more in culture art and music here at Da Bassment.
We all like artist for different reasons. Some listen for style and delivery, others for punchlines and hooks, but seldom do you run across a talent who has the whole package. Fresco Van Gogh, a native from Brooklyn New York, is spreading his wings in the Atlanta scene with his new project coming out first quarter this year calledBrooklyn, GA. Van Gogh established a solid buzz in 2015 but is looking to make a splash in the industry this year. With a heavy 808 sounds accompanied with vigilant lyrics Van Gogh creates a perfect blend of East Coast gritty rap with a Down South “boomtrap” production, making it easy to see why this album will be a recipe for success. Fresco brings substance and content with thought provoking songs like “Stalin Freestyle” where he encourages you to stop staling in life and get out and get it, and “UNDRFTD” a single where he lets it be known he is not looking for any hand-outs understanding his potential and knowing his future is in his hands. Choosing the name Van Gogh automatically raises the bar of expectations and Fresco surely meets those expectations. Using his words to paint a picture for the listener and great production as his canvas when you hear Van Gogh’s music you can’t help to compare his music to a masterpiece.
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