Kari Van Der Kloot - The Architects - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

... too G to take a knee, still I gave you all of me.A pivotal force in the early '10s NYC rap revival, now LA-based rapper and producer Chuck Strangers steps into the limelight on new solo LP A Forsaken Lover's Plea.The album sounds markedly rich, candid rhymes bolstered by a slew of guest producers-including The Alchemist, Animoss and Strangers himself. Chuck's own production feels current without ditching it's previous homeliness, a seamless compliment to his honest, lived-in raps. A collection of fellow New York rap torchbearers lace the album with guest verses, including Pro Era comrade Joey Bada$$ & Flatbush Zombies' Erick the Architect.Strangers' tangled romance with hip-hop is the crux of the project-the culmination of a decade's unwavering dedication to his craft, with it's lofty highs, inevitable lows, and lessons of humility and patience.Mixed by Trevor WrightMastered by ZerohArt direction & design by Commission StudioPhotography by Jack McKain

'The Architects' - the debut album from guitarist Dan Bruce's trio Ohm! - is a journey through funky pockets and jazz/rock fusion. With relentless rhythmic momentum and dynamic interaction, the trio creates an impressive variety of textures and moods while balancing accessibility with unpredictability. An energetic listen for those who like a little chaos with their grooves.

Pianist/composer Hiromi returns with a powerhouse trio, including contra-bass guitarist Anthony Jackson (Paul Simon, the O'Jays, Steely Dan, Chick Corea) and drummer Simon Phillips (Toto, the Who, Judas Priest, David Gilmour, Jack Bruce).