Artist Spotlight

Afroman and BLAZAR Take a Fresh Approach for “Step it UP”

Legendary hip-hop icon Afroman closed out 2020 with a feature on “WHOLEthing” alongside electronic music producer BLAZAR. Since then, Afroman has signed with BLAZAR’s Cosmic Wire label, and the duo is finding the perfect combination between the present and past. Now, nearly one year later, they are back to putting their studio magic on full display with the funk-driven new single, “Step it UP” available via a collaboration between Cosmic Wire and AntiFragile Music (INgrooves/Universal).

Wasting no time with a hard-hitting, old-school hip-hop bassline, BLAZAR’s retro synth work soon falls into place. The opening verse by Afroman delivers the no-nonsense message: “Step up your game, drop dead weight.” Venturing into electro-pop schemes, “Step it UP” offers a fresh soundscape for Afroman to showcase his world-renowned lyricism.

“This was such a raw song from the start – Afroman and I wrote it in my studio during the lockdown,” said BLAZAR aka Jerad Finck. “He fired the lyrics off in this explosion of energy, and it was just so inspiring, so pure. It was a moment that really spoke to me in a visceral way about direction and intention. The gatekeeper is the one in the mirror, if you want it, do better.”

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.

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.