Music

Guapdad 4000 Joins Too Short And Rayven Justice To Proudly Rep The Bay In Their Video For ‘Oaklandish’

The track can be found on Too Short and E-40’s newly-released double-disc project ‘Ain’t Gone Do It/Terms and Conditions.’ …

Prior to 2020, Guapdad 4000 was undoubtedly a big name, especially after his debut, Dior Deposits, and his string of impressive guest features on Dreamville’s compilation album Revenge Of The Dreamers III. This year, the Oakland native kept it up with a pair of EPs, Platinum Falcon Tape, Vol. 1 and Platinum Falcom Returns, plus a number of strong collabs. Now, Guapdad brings his year to an end by standing beside a fellow Bay legend in a new music video.

Guapdad recently joined Too Short and Rayven for their video for “Oaklandish,” where the trio reps The Bay to the fullest. Bringing their talents to the Oakland streets, the three artists deliver verses that emphasize their love for their hometown, all while warning them to respect the city or face the consequences. Guapdad’s verse is easily the standout on the song, backed by comical punchlines like “Said I’m flyin’ with the stick again / This Harry Potter brother got the wand slitherin.’”

Album Review

R3b3l I explores self-discovery through sound on “A Different Frequency” album

In a music scene often ruled by lyrics, R3b3l I proves that you can tell a powerful story without a single lyric. “A Different Frequency” is a twelve-track instrumental hip-hop and rap-inspired album inviting you into a deeply personal journey of growth, self-discovery, and purpose, speaking its message purely through mood, rhythm, and expression.

“Dance Before the Throne” opens the album, immediately establishing the tone of reflection and reverence. From here, “Elevate” and “The Wave” continue, adding momentum and a sense of movement and change. Each piece is a chapter in a larger story, allowing you to interpret the music with your own experience.

Songs like “I AM Power,” “Level Up,” and “Awaken” seem to be a big part of the progression of the album. The energy is one of empowerment and inner evolution. “The Jazzy Hop” is a nice change of pace in style, with a smooth, groove-flavored taste that shows R3b3l I’s versatility. Meanwhile, “Carousel,” “Raindrops,” and “Heartbeat” are moments of introspection that balance uplifting themes with emotional depth and openness.

The project wraps up on an emotional high with “Ancestors,” a heartfelt tribute to the forebears and the invisible forces that still influence us on our journeys. It’s a fitting way to close out an album about connection, growth, and purpose. “A Different Frequency” is more than a collection of tracks with carefully constructed instrumentals and thoughtful sequencing, and it’s a rewarding journey for those who want immersive instrumental hip-hop with heart, imagination, and substance.

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Artist Spotlight

“Signalling Signatures” finds Mr Pigeons exploring dreams, truth, and hidden meanings

While the first look at an upcoming project usually sets the expectations, Mr Pigeons does something more ambitious with “Signalling Signatures.” With this release, the hip-hop artist opens up a portal into “Shining Arras,” inviting you into a world where dreams, symbols, and hidden meanings collide.

“Signalling Signatures” is an exploration of the thin veil between reality and imagination, based on themes of altered consciousness and shifting perspectives. The song is a mix of mythology, film, and spiritual symbolism and encourages you to look beyond the ordinary and find the messages in everyday life. Mr Pigeons delivers with purpose and swagger, blending introspection with crisp storytelling. He also renders the abstract ideas of the song accessible.

The thing about “Signalling Signatures” that is so compelling is its sheer audacity to challenge you. There are no easy answers in this song, only a quest for truth, perception, and uncertainty. A good opening chapter to “Shining Arras,” and it manages to build up suspense as well as showing Mr Pigeons’ artistic vision. “Signalling Signatures” is a good introduction to what could be an interesting new creative phase for the artist.