The Return of the Political

I think that this title might be the name of a Frederic Jameson book, but I'm not sure. (For those who know that reference, get a life.) Anyway, I just wanted to get back to looking at politics, a subject which has conspicuouly been absent from this blog recently. I could say that I have been focused on the mixtapes and trying to have related links, but that would only be half the truth. No, I have just been sick to death of politics, current events and the people who write about them and participate in them. It's felt a lot like the lead-up to the last election, when I just couldn't take it anymore- the lies, the smears, the shoddy journalism that was practiced on the 24-hour cable shows and big newspapers alike.

I want to be one of those warriors who canvasses and writes a daily blog filled with the day's atrocities, the idealist who believes. I just don't have the stomach for it, the ability to withstand the disappointment and anger on a day-to-day basis. I wouldn't be able to wake up in the morning if I didn't take a break from it all occasionally. It's that bad out there.

How bad? Samuel Alito is going to be confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States. This man is a far-right judge, a man out of step with the mainstream of America. He has worked his whole life to undermine Roe v. Wade, labor rights, environmental rights, defendants' rights. He has spent his whole life pursuing the same agenda that the Bush administration has adopted and crammed down our throats. He will become the deciding vote on so many issues and will influence the direction of this country for years to come. TPMCafe has been a great source during the hearings. Go here and here for the case against Alito. SCOTUSblog has also been a great source. Dahlia Lithwick cuts through the crap and addresses the issue of presidential authority in the war on terror, where the law will be set by this man. Feministing has been looking at this from the beginning. Daily Kos was a good outlet for those of us upset at this nomination and looking for fellow miserablists.

Want more? Take a look at the story surrounding the Washington Post ombudsman, Deborah Howell. For those that don't know what the hell an ombudsman is, let me tell you that it's not a member of the crew on a porno shoot. It is a person hired by a newspaper to serve as a check on their reporters, to catch their mistakes and report on them. Anyway, Howell jumped into the Abramoff scandal and made some factually inaccurate statements tying the Democrats to Abramoff's campaign contributions. Instead of admitting her mistake, she continued to make the inaccurate claims and began to parrot GOP talking points on the issue. It blew up into a real shitstorm, with readers leaving critical comments on her blog, some of which were deleted for supposed offensive comments. Her boss did an interview with right-wing blogger Hugh Hewitt to defend the paper. To top it off, Howell is the same person who called out Post writer Daniel Froomkin's blog for being too liberal! Notice a pattern here.

Jane at firedoglake has lead the charge thankfully, so go here, here and here to follow the developments. Josh Marshall gets to the heart of the matter. Brad Delong destroys Howell and the Post, for really real. Mark Schmitt gets in on it as well.

And for a depressing finale? A group of alumni at UCLA, led by 24-year old Andrew Jones, are offering cash rewards for anyone willing to out "radical" professors by providing tapes and notes of their lectures. Intimidating professors falls right in the line with the mood of the days, when bullying and insults pass for discourse. Joseph McCarthy would be proud of his offspring.

200 Pound Tumor, the Half Ton Man and Other People Who Make Me Feel Better About Myself

We're working on a few behind-the-scenes things here at Pound for Pound, which means that the next week or so is going to be a little random: some links and some songs from all over the map. We're going to try to take this blog to the next level, so I ask for some patience as we take some steps to do that. We will be taking care of your booty music needs again before you know it.

In the meantime, might I recommend that you check out a cable station called Discovery Health? It's stunning, putting on astonishing programs on a daily basis. In the span of a few weeks, I have seen two people with tumors that weighed more than 150 lbs. TWO people, for chrissakes! The first one was the story of a 120-pound woman who had a 200-pound tumor that engulfed her body below the chest. The second woman, from Romania, developed a 175-pound tumor, which left her just short of the world record. Both women survived, and their tumors now host shows on Fox News.

The remaining cast of characters includes the half-ton man (the fattest man ever), the 750-pound man, kids born without skin, kids born with hair all over their faces like werewolves, and many people getting consmetic surgery to get better noses, faces, boobs and whatnot. I'll put that cast up against Jack Bauer, some desperate housewives and every American Idol. This week: "Mermaid Baby", "Living With Half a Body", "Born Without a Face" and "Born With Two Heads".

Check out this channel, if you have it. It's nice to see Discovery Health adopting my attitude, first presented in a review of Breaking Bonaduce, that the best TV is the kind that makes me feel better about my own pathetic, horrible life.

-I'm going to come with all sorts of topics and links over the next week, covering everything from Roe v. Wade to French rap to reggaeton to boxing. We're all over the place, but in a good way.

The Year Ahead for Pound for Pound (a.k.a. Happy 1st Birthday, Nerd!)

The Future's so bright here, you better wear shades. You've been warned.

It's hard to believe, but this week marks the 1st Anniversary of Pound for Pound. I started this blog a year ago for no discernible reason, just the inkling that I had something to say and contribute beyond banal commentary on big topics. It has taken a year, but I feel that things are starting to come together here, that I am starting to find a distinct voice.

In the next few weeks, you will notice lots of changes here, all of which are intended to make this a more valuable resource for people and an easier and more attractive place to visit. The main change will involve having permanent server space, which will enable me to post mp3s for a longer period of time and for an unlimited number of downloaders. I also hope to improve the design of the site, as I move it from the limited blogger template to something of my own creation. There are other ideas still in the embryonic stage, but let's just say that I'm working on big things, real big things.

I want to take this moment to thank everyone who has visited the site over the past year, from my friends to my regular readers to those looking to find out more about "Wilt Chamberlain penis size." It has been nice to know that people find what I am saying and uploading interesting, and a real treat to meet some good people. On that front, feel free to contact me at the email above, over AIM (jdschone) or at my myspace page (unless you are a girl with a webcam, enough already). I hope to keep adding great links to our list, as there really is a limitless number. We gonna make this an empire, manifest destiny, cheah!

Finally, I want to thank MC for all of her editing, her feedback, her support, and mostly, for inspiring me to do this and everything. This blog came into focus around the same time she came into my life, and I don't think that is any coincidence. I look forward to seeing what 2006 holds, that's about all I can say.

Young Jeezy and DJ Drama-Trap or Die

DJ Drama and Young Jeezy, Trap or Die

DJ Drama and Young Jeezy, Trap or Die (chopped + screwed)

Did you get it, get it? Did you guess who was #1? That's right, Jeezy, the Snowman. He got that snow, man. He's also got the trophy for winning the first annual Pound for Pound Best Mixtape, as the crowning achievement in a big year for mixtapes was DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz Trap or Die. I imagine that a lot of people guessed this choice, as I had pretty much covered every other big name from the year. I mean, you couldn't go anywhere without seeing one of those snowman t-shirts that inexplicably became the gear of choice for hood kids and ironists alike.

However, it wasn't a gimmicky t-shirt that put Jeezy on the map. No, it was this DJ Drama mixtape and a fantastic album that did that. Before I get into that, let me discuss the aesthetics of a great mixtape for me. I'm not sure that I have done a good job of conveying what made a mixtape something I came back to again and again. I'm not sure that I really know, in all honesty, but in looking back, it either had to bring a comprehensive look at a scene, like Whut It Dew, or it had to bring me a complete look at one artist. I want a mix to give me something that the official release never can: the artist and person behind the music. I want it unfiltered: no A&R guys, no label heads, no demographic research. I got that from these six, and then some.

For me, Jeezy brought the perfect mixture of street, talent and arrogance. Mix in an engaging personality, and you have a winner. Moreso than on his album, Thug Motivation 101, this mix brings all of it out in the open. This is Jeezy and his cohorts, talking about selling drugs, bragging about their cars, the money they make, giving advice to younger rappers (he's only 22, mind you), telling stories about going to strip clubs when he was 14 to prove his hood status. It's a huge, wild document, that explores the trap and its mindset, the violence, the guilt, the bragging. Everything that makes hip hop so exciting and frustrating and authentic at the same time.

Trap or Die displayed all of this best, and did it with some of my favorite songs of the year. "Get Em Jeezy", "Miss Me With That Rap Shit" and "We Luv Ya", the freestyle over "Ether" should prove that this isn't all surface, no substance. This mixtape showed the way forward, put Atlanta back in front, and stayed in my playlist for most of the year. Not bad for 6 bucks.

-Hey DJ, that's my DJ! Yes indeed, the man who has provided the soundtrack to way too many of my nights, Low Budget, has brought out a new mixtape. It's called Club Shotta, and gives you a pretty good sense of Low B's style. That means recent club bangers, B-more club, dancehall, mashups, some 80s. In other words, exactly what you need. Go here and buy it directly from the man, or Philly people can go to Armand's to cop it. Whatever you do, buy it.

-The new mix from emynd and Bo Bliz is called Electro Cute and is out now, as well. To quote the guys: "The jawn is a full 70 minutes of ridiculous electro, bmore, Miami-bass, booty, dancehall, and other 130bpm-plus ish." Yum. This might be the mix I would commission to celebrate this blog, as it is so nice to see more and more DJs focusing on bass music and all of its offshoots. Go to the official website and check out some sound clips if you don't trust me. Don't forget to go check out emynd's blog, Schizophrenic Tenant One, which is linked permanently to the right.

-DJ Ayres and DJ Eleven have a mix out called Houston for Dummies, a beginner's guide to all the heat coming out from H-town over the last decade. Go here or here and cop it.

-My Balls and My Word is a great blog coming out of the Great White North that is necessary reading. In fact, it is doing the music, politics, etc. format a lot better than me. Make sure to check out the Schooly D shit, and the variety of mixtapes from Nas, Swishahouse and DJ 31 Degreez.

-Finally, I hope that everyone enjoyed this look at the mixtape game for 2005. If enough people holler at me on comments or email, I will gladly reup anything from the past few weeks. Not sure what's next here at Pound for Pound, but I will be getting back to the booty music that is our lifeblood.

The Weekend Update with Pound for Pound

Every now and then there is a weekend that is chock full of happenings, and I feel it imperative that I acknowledge the goodness.

-It's hard to believe, but yes, I am hyping a show, I Have A Dream 2006, at one of New York City's mega-clubs, Roxy, known for its star DJs, clubbing til the next morning, and a general scene that repulses me. However, if you read the flier above closely, DJ Assault and DJ Funk are spinning a dual set this night. That's right, two of the patron saints of Pound for Pound are performing together for one night. Assault and Funk have brought booty music to the forefront in Detroit and Chicago, respectively. Ghettotech and ghetto house owe everything to these two originals, as does this blog. This is a rare East Coast appearance, and even rarer joint one, so needless to say, it's an essential night.

-For those in Philly tomorrow night, I cannot recommend more highly the Killsound event at Waxbar. While it is mainly a showcase for drum and bass music (!?!), the reason to go is the Philly debut of Caps and Jones, two of the best young DJs anywhere. I have heard them spin a few times, consider their Moving In Stereo one of the best mixes I have ever heard, and just generally predict big things for the duo. Philly, head out and give these guys a nice welcome, as playing Philly means they have hit the big time for real. I hope that this is just the first of many more appearances in the Illadelph. Killsound looks like it's going to take over Sundays, FYI.

-I can't forget about Saturday night, as there's much popping off. Reagan Disko Headache holds down The Khyber. If you don't know about this one, it's consistently one of the best, most adventurous parties in the city. Ron Morelli and friends cover all sorts of ground, from electro to post-punk to booty.

-Again, I need to recommend The Pop-off Shack jawn at The Metro Lounge in Northern Liberties. I really believe that this weekly will achieve epic status- two floors of fun, huge space, some of the best Philly DJs. What more could you ask for?

-Unfortunately, one of those DJs will not be there this week, as Low Budget is involved in an amazing night at Supreme Trading in Brooklyn. The Juan MacLean of DFA Records fame will be there, along with Low B, DJ Ayres and a slew of other DJs.

-Finally, the Walnut Room (1709 Walnut Street) is hosting a 12-week Sunday night showcase for some of the greatest Philly DJs of all-time. This Sunday is King Britt, the house/downtempo/hip hop superstar.

-People, if you have an event going on or are DJing somewhere, holler at your bol. I'm always up for helping promote cool events, as it makes me feel like I am a creative person doing big things. Let your bol live vicariously, send in listings!

-In lieu of the title of this post, I have to link to this video from a recent Saturday Night Live skit that I am guessing everyone has seen. It's called "The Chronic of Narnia", and it is the funniest thing I may have ever seen on SNL, especially since Will Ferrell left. I don't watch the show, but this video does have me wondering if it has returned to funny after the dark years of Jimmy Fallon, Horatio Sanz and Tracey Morgan.

-#1 on Monday, people. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

The Clipse-We Got It For Cheap Vol. 2

The Clipse, We Got It For Cheap Vol. 1

The Clipse, We Got It For Cheap Vol. 2

No surprise here, as this is the mix of the year for most people. Sasha has it at #13 on his best of 2005 list, Hardly Art, Hardly Garbage has eloquently hyped this album since its release. If those names don't sell you, maybe I can. Okay, okay, just let me talk anyway.

Both volumes of We Got It For Cheap served as definitive statements for Clipse, the VA rap duo that dropped Lord Willin' a few years back and enjoyed the beats of the Neptunes. Can you believe that it has been 3 years since "Grindin'" dropped? Me either. While it is a travesty that label troubles have prevented them from dropping more music, hearing these two mixes make the wait well worth it.

The drug stories are back, the beats are more varied, some Philly bols have been added to the crew. However, more than anything, it's the lyrics that make this so unbelievable. I love their album, but I just wasn't ready for these two to put out such unbelievable examples of word play and boasts and coke stories. In some ways, the Clipse seem like the perfect melding of South and East, bringing the laid-back drawl, drug tales and trap or die mentality to the lyrical prowess that defined the East Coast at its best. Gang Starr mixed with UGK. In a sense, the best of both worlds. Now, if they could just find a label to put out another album, for g-dsakes!

-Speaking of getting it for cheap, head here and grab the DFA Radio mixes of 2005, 3 volumes of stuff mixed by James Murphy (a.k.a. LCD Soundsystem) and Juan McLean. Rad.

-Or head here and grab the Optimo No Wave mix put together by JD Twitch. For real, this is a great mix to hear some stuff that maybe hasn't been on your radar, covering that period in the early 80s when new wave turned dark. I really hope that I can get into this music, back when punk and hip hop and electronic mixed and mingled. Keep your eye on the Optimo site, as these guys are crazy busy, putting together the Hang the DJ series, the Optimo party and mashup madness.

-Or head here and check out the new podcasts that Radioclit have put up. I love Radioclit, and cannot recommend more highly their mixes, which go from the sappiest of pop to the dirtiest of rap. The good things in life, in other words.

-A sale at ALife Rivington Club for all those looking to get their kicks for less cash, starting next Thursday and lasting through the weekend. Head to the LES, and cop something nice. [Via Slam X Hype]

-Okay, we are at the end of the road, one more left in our end of year mixtape countdown. The ball is about to drop, can you guess who is the #1? Check in Monday to find out.

Juelz Santana-Back Like Cooked Crack 2

Juelz Santana, Back Like Cooked Crack 2

Juelz Santana, Back Like Cooked Crack 3

Dip Set Dip Set Dip Set. I love 'em, you love 'em, everyone loves them. Last year, Cam'ron took the mixtape world by storm with the many jawns that dropped before his album, Purple Haze. Hell, the entire Dip Set phenomenon is a product of the tapes that constantly drop, extending into the minor leaguers of Purple City. This year, the youngest member of the gang ran things, as Juelz Santana put out the biggest album and the best mixtapes from Harlem's finest.

Back Like Cooked Crack 2 was my choice for the better of the two, although my favorite song ("Murder Murder") is on third installment. The entire series is amazing; these are mixtapes that took all of the potential heard before and brought it to the next level. It is a great CD, doing what all of my favorites did this year: great songs from the upcoming album, lots of good freestyles, good talk intervals (either funny shit or hood wisdom shit, choose one). Juelz has proven himself to be one of the best, and a worthy heir to Killa's throne.

Oh, and this is a DJ Green Lantern production, a name that is the gold standard in mixtapes. I kinda forgot about bol this year, what with my attention focused down south, and much of Lantern's best work coming outta the East Coast (Beanie Sigel, Beastie Boys, 50 Cent). However, he deserves more attention and respect, as he is arguably the man responsible for the mixtape as art movement. His Jadakiss and Beanie mixes of the last few years elevated the game to whole nother level that Kay Slay and Clue had no vision of.

-Miami Ink is back like cooked crack tonight with new episodes. This is seriously one of my favorite shows on TV (ok, basic cable) and I highly recommend it to anyone who is into reality TV that isn't about humiliation, sex or craziness. It follows the day-to-day scene at a tattoo parlor on Miami Beach, and follows the artists a bit in their personal lives. It's amazing to watch the process unfold, to see how a tattoo comes to creation, and just how creative an art it is.

-There Stands The Glass is a new blog that is off to a great start. There is nothing better than a site dedicated to "overlooked and forgotten music," as I think that that spirit guides our site here, as well. Anyway, go check it out here and listen to some great music from genres all over the map. Tech N9ne today!

-One can only hope that New Orleans can make it back to the boisterous, imperfect city that it was before Katrina. Go here, here and here to read more on the development process. After that, please make sure to check out this masterful essay by critic Mike Davis in Le Monde Diplomatique on the dangers of reconstruction, the fear of gentrification and the forces more than happy to use this tragedy for their own causes. Here is another Davis piece on the gentrification angle.

-Most importantly, I will be back in the next few days to wrap up this end-of-the-year mixtape look. I know that I originally said that I would only be doing a Top 5, but I was wrong. This is a Top 6 list, as my small brain has constantly looked at the next two as #1 and #1A.

Saturday Night Was Not Alright For Fighting

A big day Saturday, lead off by the Zab Judah fight in New York City. Zab is one of the potential stars of the fight game, a man in need of a huge win to rise in the ranks of the pound for pound rankings. He was close to getting that fight with the best of the best, Floyd Mayweather Jr., but needed to win a tune-up last night.

As they say, that's why they play the game. Carlos Baldomir won a unanimous decision, dealing a serious blow to Judah's future. He came at Judah from the beginning of the fight, in the tradition of the great Argentinian fighters, relentlessly pursuing Judah and never allowing Judah to use his speed and power. I can't really say much, other than that this is a shocking loss and ruins the potential Mayweather-Judah fight that many people have been clamoring for. Judah looked past this "tune-up", and now is left to pick up the pieces of his career for his unprofessional atttitude toward the fight.

While it's disappointing for future fights, it's always nice to see an underdog win, especially in front of a hostile crowd. In all honesty, it's hard to root for a guy as cocky and arrogant as Judah, the only fighter repping NYC. Baldomir claims to want a Mayweather fight, but I really hope that Floyd chooses this Judah loss as a chance to go up in weight class and find some competition.

Lots of great blog reaction, as I have been sleeping on way too many great sites dealing with the greatest sport ever. The folks at Sweet Science have a nice roundup of the fight and the reaction to Judah's loss and whining. East Coast Boxing sums it up succinctly with their post, Zab "Losah." Let Your Hands Go enjoyed seeing the arrogant Judah lose, and even came up with a "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" analogy. Gemini 38 feels shame for the entire borough of Brooklyn as a result of Zab's performance. TG's Blog comes to love boxing more after this card. hitthemagain has some sage advice for all fighters after watching Judah look ahead to his next fight.

-In the unadulterated great defeats category, Tom Delay has officially stepped down as the House majority leader. It appears that his indictment, his future trouble from the Abramoff case and his pariah status in an election year sunk the Bugman. It really couldn't happen to a better guy, as Delay has been at the forefront of the modern Republican party and its culture war, tax cuts, greed, corruption and McCarthyite attacks on the opposition. (Update: As a nice final piece, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals rejected Delay's request to have his appeal thrown out. Nine Republican judges do not agree with his belief that this is a meritless, partisan attack. [Via Talking Points Memo])

-There was a fatal shark attack in Australia this weekend, and our thoughts are with the victim's family. As MC knows all too well now, I am fascinated by sharks and would spend hours every weekend watching shark documentaries on The Discovery Channel if the network's programmers indulged me. This one is stunning, because it appears to involve three bull sharks, with one of the sharks chasing the victim and rescuers to the shore. It must be remembered that man has never been able to tame this animal; it is the only one on Earth about which that can be said, and for that it deserves our respect and fear.

-For anyone in Philly Saturday night, there was just no need for fighting, as The Pop-Off Shack brought dancing, good music, drunkeness and fun to the Metro Lounge for a night. I will have more to say about this party, but for now, know that this is going to be the party of the year anywhere. For real, greatness is predicted.

-To make it up to NYC for Zab's tank, we're going to focus on one of your other native sons doing big things tomorrow as we wrap up our look at the best mixtapes of the past year.

DJ Drama and Lil' Wayne-Dedication

DJ Drama and Lil' Wayne, Dedication

This one was in the running for #1, and really each of the top 3 could make a strong case for being mixtape of the year. All three are solo CDs, focused on one artist, and that seems to be what sounded the best to me this year.

Lil Wayne has been around for years now; he has seen the rise and fall of the Cash Money Records, and has come out of the shadows of Juvenile, Mannie Fresh and Birdman to become one of the big names in the game on his own. Quite a story, and with all that transpired in New Orleans this Fall with Katrina and its aftermath, I can only imagine what he will say in the new year. I'm not sure that anything could top this mixtape, which dropped in the summer, an official release consisting entirely of flows and freestyles from Weezie.

What comes across is that Wayne is a star, an entertainer and one of the great lyricists in the game. I mean, T.I. always seemed like the logical successor after Jay-Z retired. But, hearing Weezy kill song after song, rolling with every instrumental, makes me reconsider. Or perhaps I'm just sentimental for the days when Cash Money ruled the game, when the gang was together, Mannie Fresh was dropping all the beats, Juvenile was a star, B.G. and Wayne were the young lions, and Baby was doing whatever the hell he did.

-Speaking of Drama and mixtapes, he has a new one out with T.I., a.k.a. T.I.P., a.k.a. The King of the South, called The Leak. This is dropping in advance of the new album, The King, and makes it clear that the early part of 2006 will be T.I.'s to lose. Buy it here.

-Good to see U Mean Competitor is back in the new year, and even better to see that 2005 is going to be just like 2006, in other words "Dipset all year every year." That seems like a good hint for the next mixtape we will look at here, by the way. Just FYI.

Rapid Ric and Bun-B

Freestyle Kingz and Magno, Twanks or Swangs (regular speed)

Freestyle Kingz and Magno, Twanks or Swangs (chopped + screwed)

Killa Kyleon, Middlfngz and Bun B, Texas Dreams

Killa Kyleon, Middlfngz and Bun B, Texas Dreams (c+s)

Yung Redd and the Grit Boys, Don't Fuck With the 718 flow

Yung Redd and the Grit Boys, Don't Fuck With the 718 flow (c+s)

As promised, the next mixtape that made it onto my "Best Street Tapes of the Year" list came out of Houston, the city that has been making waves for a few years now. Besides Matt Sonzala, Rapid Ric might be the man most responsible for getting the music out to the rest of the country and exposing the rap world to just how deep the scene is.

These songs come off of an installation of one of the best series going, Whut It Dew 2, Ric's series dedicated to the Texas scene. What makes it invaluable is its focus on a city and its music, allowing the listener to go even deeper into the music. WID2 is hosted by the OG legend, the one, the only Bun-B, and one of the up-and-coming stars of the scene, Killer Kyleon. It seems like it was a while ago that Bun was the center of attention, although I guess that it was only this summer. It was nice to have the focus on one of the underappreciated legends of rap, a genre that indulges in the new thing, the new sound, the new single as much as any other. He is in good form here, sounding as energetic and dominant as he did in the UGK days.

-Go here and get another chance to grab the mix Rapid Ric did to celebrate the release of Bun's album, Trill. All of the man's greatest verses mixed up, The King of the Trill is an epic document of one of the greatest of all-time, like seeing a tape of all of Jordan's dunks and game-winning shots. Make sure to buy the man's album here, as free mixtapes don't put chrome on the Cadillac.

-Looking to grab some of the best albums of '05 that weren't as talked about? Go here for Sasha Frere-Jones' recommendations in the latest New Yorker. I love seeing a list that has the Clipse's We Got It For Cheap next to Natasha Bedingfield. For real, I would follow this guy to war if he said that was the thing to do.

-Great new look at The Stencil, as bols are putting on a new face for the new year. I'mma have to check out their recommendation for cheesesteaks in NYC, as the name Tony Luke's carries a lot weight around Pound for Pound. For the record, I will not go into this with an open mind, as I don't care how many rolls they have sent up from Sarcone's, it will never be the same. NYC can keep trying, but the shittiest cheese steak place in Philly kills the best NYC can offer. Get off of our dicks, the Sixth Borough is rising! Seriously, their other Philly recommendation for the opening of "Something Like Water" at 222 Gallery in Old City looks great. I'm going to try to stop by tomorrow night for the opening.

-More good news in the new year, as the murder charges against Gucci Mane have been dropped. So Lucky.

-Tomorrow we head to New Orleans to hear one of the rap's finest succeeding in the city's saddest year.

DJ Smallz and Yo Gotti

DJ Smallz and Yo Gotti, Hustle & Flow: Southern Smoke Special Edition

It won't be much of a surprise that the South dominated the mixtape game this past year, as they generally ran the game on all fronts in 2005. While it was the year of the stars, from Three 6 Mafia to Young Jeezy to the Clipse, Yo Gotti was a voice that stuck out to me immediately, thanks to DJ Smallz.

Gotti comes out of the Memphis scene, which hasn't drawn the attention of the world the way that Atlanta and Houston and New Orleans have been able to. That's in spite of Three 6 Mafia's biggest hit ever, "Stay Fly", which brought the group national airplay. This lack of spotlight on Memphis seems to be the only reason Gotti hasn't gotten more buzz, more blog discussion, more press, as he has everything else. He has the coke game raps, the Southern voice, the bass beats. Listen to the mixtape, and hear for yourself. I hope that 2006 is the year that Yo Gotti rises to the level of Young Jeezy and Lil Wayne, making coke money on his rhymes.

Anyway, here is the mixtape that came out during the summer, compiled by DJ Smallz as a Southern Smoke: Hustle and Flow edition. It's one of the five best mixtapes to me this year, and definitely my favorite thing that DJ Smallz was involved in. I hope that people will leave some thoughts in the Comments section this week on their favorites street tapes, as I am sure that I missed a lot of great stuff.

-Jack Abramoff agreed to cooperate with the federal authorities and plead guilty. You heard it here first, if you look at nothing else and don't read the newspaper or watch television. Talking Points Memo is the best source on this story, especially this round-up of the day's events. Firedoglake also has a nice guide for those just getting interested in the story.

The key aspect that people must learn is that this is the modern Republican Party. This is not a bipartisan story. Here is a good start by the Washington Post. (Update: The Wall Street Journal reports that Abramoff could implicate up to 60 lawmakers. [Via Think Progress])

-Make sure to start your new year off by grabbing the last lemon-red mix of last year. This one features the work of Nick Catchdubs, the blog legend, Fader scibe and reputable DJ. It's a nice varied mix, taking in B-more club, dancehall, indie, club bangers.

-Tonight we head to H-town, PAT, specifically, for a look at Rapid Ric and Bun-B for the next mixtape.

2006 In Da House

I just want to wish everyone a Happy New Year, and say that I hope that everyone is recovered from the festivities of the past few days. I am so excited for 2006, as it is a going to be a big year, I do believe. It has been so long (i.e. my entire life), since I last looked forward to the start of a new year.

A big part of this excitement is a direct result of Pound for Pound, and the changes that are in store here. More details to come, although we are really just trying to make the site look better and be more valuable as a source of music. The content will stay the same, with the focus on booty music and all that it has wrought, cities, politics, defense of hipsters. I really hope that we bring in many new readers, and that we will continue to entertain and interest our old readers.

The rest of this week will be a look back on 2005, as I'mma list my favorites from the year past. A novel idea, I know. But, to make up for this played-out concept and self-aggrandizing gesture, I will come bearing gifts. I'll be uploading my favorite mixtapes of the year, the top 5 probably, which should bring all the boys to the yard. From there, we will return to the age-old question: Miami bass vs. DJ Screw. It is a question that has plagued intellectuals and scholars for years, and Pound for Pound plans to answer it in 2006.

DJ Drama and Project Pat-Gangsta Grillz 15

Project Pat, Don't Turn Around

Project Pat, Juelz Santana and Young Jeezy, Best of Both Hoodz

Project Pat with Blackjack, Ridin' Swervin

Project Pat, Don't Bite the D

Project Pat and The Roots, Show

As promised, we are going to spend the last week of 2005 and the first week of 2006 looking at the best music of the year, while providing a couple of gifts for those who might not have had a chance to grab the best mixtapes of 2005. I know that there are a ton of Top 10 lists weighing down the Internets now, so I am sorry for joining in this circle jerk. I must admit that it seems like it would be fun to do, and it gives me a chance to upload some music that you might not have had the time or money to hear.

What better way to start this off than Gangsta Grillz 15, hosted by our recent focus, Project Pat. Pat's just out of jail, and ready to take the streets back. This is a good mixtape, people, and really goes a long way to showing how much the South is killin' the game right now, and how much DJ Drama and the Aphiliates are leading the charge. His mixtapes are the best, in my opinion, doing what all good street tapes should do: playing the songs of the moment, and the songs of the next moment.

-Go here to hear Project Pat speak, live from the motherfucking halfway house.

-Did Bush break the law when he authorized the NSA to spy on U.S. citizens? Most legal scholars believe that he did, quite brazenly at that, when you consider his admission to the crime. It's frightening to realize how little regard this administration has for either the law or the Congress. There is a belief that the President's office is all-powerful, and there is no need for oversight. For anyone concerned with democracy, this story has to be one of the most frightening to come out of these 5+ years, which is saying a lot. We learned recently that the NSA has been putting cookies onto the computers of anyone visiting their web site. Digby at Hullabaloo has been all over this, brilliantly taking apart defenders of this attack on civil liberties and exposing why this is such a dangerous program.

-Is this really a crime? I mean, a cage is so snug and homey. And, I'm sure that the kids were being all annoying, crying and asking to be fed and shit. Free the Lavelles!

-Oh, one more wish for Hanukkah/Christmas/Kwanzaa. Please, Moz, please get back together with the band for one more tour. I really don't ask for much, so I don't think that I am being greedy. I even decree that you can horribly overcharge me, and even play in some terrible space like the Electric Factory or the old Spectrum or Madison Square Garden. Anywhere, just put The Smiths back together, and you will make my 2006, hell, you'll make my decade. Allow me to make up for willful blindness to your brilliant music, allow me the chance to see my favorite band live one time, allow me a chance to throw my panties on stage for you, my dear Morrissey. This creepy plea was brought on by this Pitchfork item on a concert that half the members of The Smiths were putting together for charity. We're close, but this ain't horseshoes, it's mopey rock. [via No Rock&Roll Fun]

Murderers and Robbers

Project Pat, Murders and Robbers

Project Pat, North North

Project Pat, Bitch Smackin Killa

Project Pat, Fuck a Bitch

Project Pat, Easily Executed

What better way to celebrate this season of giving and joy than with offensive, criminal-minded rap. I agree, there is no better way. This is it, friends, the end of the road for Robbery Week, my tribute to that hip hop of robbin' and stealin'.

What better way to end it than with the music of the just-released Project Pat, the grimiest, scariest, most explicitly criminal rapper alive. These songs above are off the CD Murderers and Robbers: Underground Album, a collection of his earliest singles. The funny thing is that you would be hard-pressed to hear much difference between these songs and his subsequent major label release: the same posse cuts, the same early Three 6 sound, the same themes of bitches, violence and fighting.

-Murderers and Robbers might be a good title for the Jack Abramoff story, the GOP money man who is under investigation in multiple cases by multiple authorities in multiple states. It appears that he is on the verge of cooperating with the Feds, although it is hard to believe that he is not going to have spend many years behind bars. The Washington Post has a great story today covering his rise and fall today. Josh Marshall makes a few good criticisms here and here. Jane at firedoglake adds to the criticism of Delay's distancing from Abramoff, and hints at the potential Abramoff holds to bring down the entire GOP establishment.

For those who think that the murderers and robbers story is just another one of my commie attacks, think again. Read this story on Abramoff's business partner, Adam Kidan, who was charged in the murder-for-hire death of a Florida businessman, 'Gus' Boulis. FYI, Kidan has already agreed to cooperate with the feds. Or go here and here to read about the millions of dollars that Abramoff and his pals bilked from the Indian casinos and tribes that he represented. Bad stuff.

-A restraining order against David Letterman? Here is the craziest story I have read in a minute. This woman was issued a temporary restraining order against Letterman because she says that he has been harassing her through her television, communicating in a coded language for her and even asked her to marry him. Surprisingly, the restraining order was dropped yesterday, meaning that Letterman is free to spread his mind control and I have to reconsider

-Steve Kerr discusses the lack of enforcement in the NBA of travelling. Why is it not surprising that a dude who may have taken 12 dribbles in his entire career complains about what players are getting away with?

-I spent yesterday watching nearly the entire 12 hours of TNT's Law and Order marathon. Since this post is about just that topic, I need to say that this show has to be in my all-time top 5, and that I want Jack McCoy to be my father and/or drinking buddy, and that the greatest character ever on the show was DA Adam Schiff.

-This post and every one that has happened during Robbery Week is dedicated to the man who robbed me in the Lower East Side last month. I hope that you enjoyed my Christmas gift of a laptop, mouse, loads of music and a computer bag. I know that I have really loved the raging case of paranoia, the night sweats, the horrible flashbacks and a newfound sense of distrust and lack of faith in mankind. Let's swap gifts again, buddy. Readers, I hope that you had as good as a gift exchange as I did. Actually, I hope that you cleared this low bar by quite a bit.

Happy Hanukkah

Shirim, A Klezmer Nutcracker

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Christmas, a wonderful Christmukkah and the best Festivus ever! I hope that y'all got everything that you asked for, that Hanukkah Harry and Santa Claus brought the loot.

I thought that it would be a nice change of pace and a nod to this season if I would upload a klezmer take on the Nutcracker Suite. This is the work of a band called Shirim, which was really just the famous, experimental klezmer trio Naftule's Dream doing interpretations of classical music. This isn't life-changing music, but it is a fun time and an easy way to get into klezmer, the music of the East European Jews. You're probably asking, why would I want to get into this? That's a good and fair question, as it sounds like something awful and antiquated. While it may be old, it is far from dead. In fact, it is a joyous, celebratory, mourning music that can make you dance and cry, sometimes in the same song. Give it a chance, and you will be surprised to hear music so alive despite not being played in 50 years.

Go here to get the full CD, which has a second part devoted to klezmer interpretations of classical music. Go here to find out more on Naftule's Dream, one of the groups keeping the music alive and bringing it out of the shtetl and into the 21st Century.

-Here is a great story on the huge impact that Jewish songwriters had on the Christmas songs that are so popular today.

-This news is really all I could want for Hanukah, as it sounds like Arrested Development could be picked up by Showtime for next season. This would be wonderful news, not just because it would give a second chance to the best show on television, but also because it would provide it with the artistic freedom and freedom from economic demands that premium cable affords.

-Again, happy holidays to everyone. I am going to be putting up some gifts over the next week to celebrate and thank everyone for reading this year. The new year beckons, and there are going to be some changes here at Pound for Pound, as we try to spread the good word about booty music, thug rap, Philadelphia, cities and sneakers.

Quote of the Day

Something to think about during whatever holiday you are celebrating this week, when your family is arguing and talking about the stupid shit you did as a kid.

Jane Jacobs:


To see complex systems of functional order as order, and not as chaos, takes understanding. The leaves dropping from the trees in autumn, the interior of an airplane engine, the entrails of a dissected rabbit, the city desk of a newspaper, all appear to be chaos if they are seen without comprehension. Once they are understood as systems of order, they actually look different.

The Death and Life of Great American Cities (1961)

This is my grrl, the writer who has had the most profound impact on me. I want to devote an entire blog to her and write her love letters and get dim sum with her at Ocean Harbor. That is the future, the next level, people, get ready for it.

I came across this quote in a post at fellow nerd dj/ rupture's blog Mudd Up! This is essential reading from one of the most creative DJs/musicians/producers around. Even better, he found it via another phenomenal, hyper-intellectual blog from Neeha Dyal, who was recommending David Byrne's new blog. Now, that is the blog circle of life.

Over the next few days, I'm gonna put up some Project Pat to end Robbery Week, just in time for Christmas and Hanukkah. Next week, I am going to provide some gifts for everyone, as I thought that I would upload my favorite mixtapes of the year, which were mainly from the hand of DJ Drama and the Aphiliates. Hopefully, we can get 8 days worth to celebrate the holiday, as it will be my gift of appreciation to my dear readers. Check back soon, and have a great holiday!

The Ski Mask Way

50 Cent, The Ski Mask Way

50 Cent (ft. Madd Rapper), How to Rob

Yeah, we're back with Robbery Week, which has now stretched to a fortnight, filled with uncomfortable humor and stick-up music. We're going to stay in Queens for this post, moving from Mobb Deep to 50 Cent, the second-most famous rapper in the world. (FYI, I assume that Eminem is the most famous rapper alive, but I could be wrong.)

I don't think that I have ever referenced Curtis Jackson on this blog, which doesn't say much for my thoroughness. I've never been a huge fan of Fiddy, possibly a reaction to his massive popularity. It's undeniable that he has put out some of the best singles of the past few years, from "In Da Club" to "Candy Shop." In fact, I don't think that he has ever gotten the respect he deserves for his music, which may not break much ground but have been hugely popular and club-killing over two albums and a few years. I mean, as a fan of reggaeton and Baltimore club, it's hard for me to hate on sticking with a good sound.

And of course, no one has benefitted more from the mythology of thug life than 50 Cent. His story is as well-known as our President's, a source of street cred and fodder for national magazines looking for a shocking tale.

-Crime has been front and center this week, ever since The New York Times broke the story that the President of the United States authorized the National Security Agency (NSA) to engage in domestic surveillance without a warrant or Congressional knowledge. Bush subsequently admitted that he has given a spy agency the right to spy on American citizens without telling Congress or following the FISA law established to prevent just this sort of abuse. Kevin Drum has been the best source on this story. Go here, here, here, here and here for background and important questions that need answers on this scandal. Hilzoy, Matt Yglesias and Josh Marshall get to the heart of the matter. More to come on this, as it is a developing story.

-In my Philly love post, I forgot to mention another excellent Philly blog that discusses indie music- with some sports, movies and odds and ends thrown in. The BM Rant is an excellent site, a good resource for music and Philly concert info, and a frequent contributor to Philly Future.

-If you are wondering what everyone will be listening to next year, especially people who get worked up about hipsters and scenesters, go check out the new mix by Dave P of Making Time fame and JDH over at Cliktrax. This is recorded live from their recent set at the NYC party Fixed. [Via Catchdubs]

-Do you want indie but with black people? Wanna hear Christmas music but fear the repercussions if people find out you listen to Bing Crosby? Then go here and check out the Christmas mix at Stones Throw by Peanut Butter Wolf.

Philly Love

Graffiti near the corner of Houston and Suffolk in the Lower East Side. Philly is everywhere. Picture taken by MC.


Jay-Z, South Philly Niggaz

It's been too long since I extolled the virtues of the greatest city on earth. Yes, I am talking about Philadelphia, and no, I'm not kidding. Anyway, just wanted to drop some news and links to things going down in the Illadelph. I spent this past weekend there with MC, who was making a return to the city that foisted my sorry ass on her. For real, it was so great being back in Philly together with my girl and taking advantage of all aspects of the city.

-The Rub was back in town Saturday, taking over Transit for the night. Brooklyn's finest seem to have established themselves quite nicely in the Sixth Borough, as DJs Ayres and Cosmo Baker have been here once a month for the past few months. This time, The Rub was the main draw, and they pulled it off nicely, as the crowd got bigger and bigger as the night wore on. MC, CS, LU and others got there around 1, lucky enough to catch the end of the Spankrock set. It was an early-ish night for MC and me, but I can safely say that I hope to attend many more Philly editions of The Rub. Thanks especially go to PaperStreet, who've been responsible for bringing this to Philly.

-Speaking of that ridiculous 6th borough phrase, Philly was featured on CNN.com earlier in the week, hyping how great the city is and how it's on the come-up. This time, we weren't the sixth borough, we were the new Williamsburg. Whatever, as long as it gets the name out in the press, I'm good. I have actually talked to quite a few recent Brooklyn transplants in Philly, and sense that there is some validity to this. For real, it is wonderful to see a change in perception about the city, about its possibilites, about its advantages. I just hope that Philadelphians lead the way in changing perceptions, and understand what a great place we have.

-One of the areas that I have harped on for awhile has been the need to focus on retail for the city. We have always lagged behind on this front, attracting little in the way of upscale retailers. That seems to be changing. Philadelphia: America's Hometown has the details on the burgeoning Center City retail market, which is hopefully just the beginning.

-Other great news on the development front, as the site of the old Meridian Plaza took a step closer to building after the Zoning Board approved its plans. The best part of this is that the condo tower will replace a hideous parking lot that sits there now. Also, make sure to go here and read a nice article on the re-use of vacant Philly hospital sites. A great look at the urban dynamic of decay and rebirth.

-I've got to mention two blogs that have gone under my radar for far too long. Badminton Stamps and callmeMICKEY are two great sites that everyone needs to check out. They both cover the indie/rock side of music, which makes them invaluable for someone like me who always feels a few steps behind on music with guitars. Even better, they are great resources for the live music scene in Philadelphia, which gets better and better each year.

Lady Sovereign Screws Philly/Hipsters to Blame

Lady Sovereign, Shhh

Lady Sovereign, Cha Ching (Cheque 1, 2 remix)

Lady Sovereign, Hoodie (Basement Jaxx remix)

This may be old news already, but whatever. I have to discuss the Lady Sovereign show here in Philly last Thursday night at Silk City, which was truly one of the most bizarre events I have ever attended.

Things began at 9, when the ticketless, yours truly included, lined up outside to guarantee getting in. Let me repeat, outside, on a 25 degree night with the wind blowing. Fortunately, I was graced with the good company of LD, as we were able to survive the Around 10:15, the line was still held outside, at which point my testicles had completely rescinded and I went numb. Finally, the promoter came outside and explained the delay, which was caused by Lady Sov's issues with the sound system and her extended sound check. My Spidey sense began to go off at this point, as I knew all about her strange NYC appearances, including her sick/drunk premiere at the Knitting Factory and her no-show at a Spin/CMJ afterparty. Could she top this? Would the midget throw a giant fit? Would Jay-Z show up? Would I get drunk off of one beer?

The answers to those questions are yes, yes, no and surprisingly no. Once we finally got in, my mood improved 60 degrees worth. Best of all, Philly came out in big numbers, as the place was packed early. There was a real buzz to the night- it felt like being at the first MIA show at the Ukie Club or Bloc Party at Making Time.

The energized room first got the chance to hear the amazing Ghislain Poirier do a set of his own beats and music on laptop. This was the highlight of the night, and I cannot recommend his music more. Poirier mixes underground hip hop, dancehall and grime-y beats to nice results. Go here and cop his album, as you will be hearing much more of this guy.

His set ended at 11:30 or so, which allowed me to go to the bathroom before LSov came out and get a good spot to watch the show. Little did I realize just how crowded the place was and how rude hipsters can be, as it took me 10 minutes to cross the dancefloor/front of the stage area. It was so frustrating and horrible a walk that my anxiety-ridden ass decided to stay down front and not venture back into the fray. LD joined me in front of the merchandise table, and it was from this vangtage point that I saw the strangest concert ever.

Lady Sovereign's DJ, DJ Cameo, came out first to warm things up, an eerie reminder of the NYC party MC and I attended where Sov never showed and we were instead treated to a dancefloor-clearing DJ set of grime and garage. Thankfully, I could see her standing in the wings, and knew that the show would go on. Before I knew it, she was on stage performing her first song. She sounded loud and clear, even though I couldn't see her (she is tiny, people). The song ended, and the place was going crazy. Soon, Lady Sov would go crazy. It began with her criticizing the sound system at the club, then imploring the crowd to yell at those responsible for this system, and finally attempting to push off a giant speaker from its position atop another giant speaker. There was some more British talk, and before anyone knew it, she was gone. The show was over. FYI, she did come back on stage for a weird minute-long second attempt to perform 30 minutes or so later, but again the damn speakers got her goat. She walked off again, but this time the majority of the crowd had long since left.

What are my thoughts on the night? Amusement, mainly. I understand why people were angry, as Mickey from callmeMICKEY calls her out for this bush league shit quite well. Go here to Badminton Stamps for even more anger. She was unprofessional, rude and I feel like she owes Philly quite an apology. However, I personally didn't feel like I should get my money back or get angry at the promoter. R5 didn't tell her to call the show after one song. Hell, the sound wasn't that bad. They didn't deserve to lose money on this one, and Ghislain didn't deserve to not get paid. I didn't ask for my money back, as I felt like I got 8 bucks worth from the night. I don't know, I was pissed off, but I just didn't have any rage really.

Then, I read this letter over at Philebrity and I nearly threw up in my mouth. Collin E. Flatt writes a pathetic screed, hitting that easiest of targets, hipsters, and takes this entire process quite personally. The amazing part is that I believe that he is referring to me, as I did tell someone to stop berating the merchandise guy after she walked off the stage. This loser decided to take his anger out on the guy who sells her fucking CDs and t-shirts, yelling at him, pointing his finger at the dude's chest in an attempt to intimidate. He wanted his money back for the CD he bought, because he didn't get a show. I told him to complain to the promoter, since that is the person who took his money for the concert and booked her.

It seems that this makes me one of "the stupid, dumbass, trendy, self-important, thick-rimmed glasses wearing, stupid bike riding, scarf wearing, Sparks-begging hipster crowd." Wow, you sure nailed it, dude. I mean, those damn hipsters, they sure do ruin things for you and your hip hop friends. There's nothing quite like getting a lesson on hip hop from America's biggest Sunny Day Real Estate fan. Here's an idea, bol: Shut your mouth and don't play the Internet tough guy. My email is to the right, if you wish to say to speak. I would love to find out when you are DJing in Philly, since you have been "a DJ in this town for 10 years". Stand up, Collin E. Flatt, or are you just another Internet tough guy?

Gimme The Loot

Notorious B.I.G., Gimme the Loot

Notorious B.I.G., Warning

Notorious B.I.G., Kick In The Door

Mang, it's like being back in 8th grade this week at Pound for Pound, as here's another classic robbery song. This one comes off another of the "Greatest Albums of All Time" list, Notorious B.I.G.'s Ready to Die. I don't need to tell you about this one, as y'all know how great Biggie was and how classic this album was.

What strikes me about these tracks, besides their explicit references to robbing someone, is how perfect it sounds. It sounds both of a specific time and timeless. Let me explain better. When I hear this song, it takes me back to the early 90s, to the end of grade school, high school, that 90s New York sound centered around DJ Premier's beats. Gang Starr, Black Moon, all those who came through the D+D Studios. It's the sound that defines an era, the era during which I grew up, the sort of default hip hop sound for my ears. Yet, listen to these songs above, or B.I.G.'s albums, and tell me that this stuff still doesn't bang, that it wouldn't sound fresh on Hot 97 or Power 99 today.

-If you're going to rob someone, this would be the item to grab. The rereleased Nike Air Max 90 infrareds were just released as a part of the history of the Air Max pack. These are fire, a legit grail. (I had a pair of the AM 9os in aqua blue that were just as hot back in the early 90s (like how I brought it all back home?), but unfortunately they've never been rereleased. Some day...) Good luck to Cuban Links in his quest to get a pair. Go here to see the web site Nike set up to honor the Air Max, a shoe that has grown on me more and more over the years. [Via Hype Beast]

-How crazy is the sneaker game? Check out the winning bids on these recent watch items for Pound for Pound here, here, here and here. For real though, if I had the loot, I would spend a couple Gs for those Paris Dunks. Mmmm, watch out Philly, watch out LES, I might have to get my ski-mask and take care of business. Go here and check out some legendary Dunks, and remind yourself why the hype began.

-More grails are coming out, as the Jordan IV military blues are getting the re-release treatment. Save your money for June 2006. This was my first pair of serious sneakers, copped in 7th grade (I think), a stunningly good fashion choice by me in an unfashionable life. [Via Slam X Hype]

-Clothing loot? Look no further than the new line of t-shirts from aNYthing [Via A Silent Flute]. They just opened their storefront in NYC on Hester Street, which I will check out on my next departure from the Chinatown bus (New Century Travel stand up!). Throwing parties downtown, giving interviews, doing real big things. Block party tonight, 7-9 pm. [Via SlamxHype]

-Wanna stay up on kicks, fashion, art, good things? A Silent Flute, dork magazine., Freshness, High Snobiety, Inquiring Mind, RTHQ, Dopefiend, Beinghunted, Hypebeast, Slam X Hype and Cool Hunting are essential reading. Feel free to let me know of others, as I love to look at stuff that I'm neither cool enough to rock or rich enough to afford.

-Lady Sov review tomorrow morning, more Robbery Week stuff, hope y'all enjoy.

Shook Ones 2005

Mobb Deep, Shook Ones Part 2

DJ Zinc vs. Mobb Deep, Shook Ones (White Label)

Mobb Deep, Shook Ones Pt. 2 video (more than 50 MB)

I would be embarrassed if I didn't put a few selections from my all-time favorite album, Mobb Deep's The Infamous. This is the one, the album that sounds perfect 12 years later to my ears. The cold, icy drum snares fit the cold, icy lyrics perfectly, depriving the listener of any comfort, any warmth. The album ranks up there for me with the works of Hubert Selby Jr., Luc Sante, Mean Streets, Herbert Asbury, those unafraid to venture into the heart of darkness that all cities have.

I have so much more to say on this album, but for now, here is one of the greatest songs from The Infamous and a drum and bass remix. I'm not a huge fan of drum 'n' bass, but this song just sounds perfect. The brutal, repetitive drums sound just right, propulsive and smothering, bringing another great, more claustrophobic version to bear. As a bonus, I also put up the video, a lo-fi trip through Queensbridge.

-D.C. Shook ones: The entire GOP, the Republican Party and right wing money machine is scurred out of their minds right now. Why you ask? Because of the federal investigations that are threatening to bring down some of the biggest, most feared names of the Right. Tom Delay, Jack Abramoff, Grover Norquist, Karl Rove, Bob Ney and many more find themselves the targets of criminal investigations. First, the biggest and most important case centers on the dealing of Abramoff, the main money man behind the right wing machine. Two of his closest associates have flipped, tightening the noose around Abramoff's neck. Who's next? Josh Marshall at Talking Points Memo has a great post today about this story and what the real story is. Here is a chart in the Washington Post on all the people who received money from Abramoff.

-Media shook ones: Rightfully so, as this is an embarrassing time to be a journalist. The unfolding Valerie Plame case has exposed the media in all of its ugly, lazy, criminal glory. You remember the embarrassing tales of Judith Miller and Bob Woodward? Now, Time Magazine's Vivica Novak has raised the bar even higher, as she was deposed last week. She has admitted to alerting Karl Rove's attorney that Matt Cooper was one of his sources. That's right, over drinks, a reporter who kept covering this story alerted Donald Luskin to the name of a fellow reporter's confidential source. She never told her editors or readers subsequently. Stunning, truly stunning. Read her article explaining her role in this story here. Jane Hamsher at firedoglake, Swopa at Needlenose, Greg Mitchell at Editor and Publisher and Digby at Hullabaloo put Novak on blast.

-Christian shook ones: That's right, baby, Christians are finally getting hip to the fact that there is a war going on. What's it over? Christmas. You can thank Bill O'Reilly, John Miller and other brave truth tellers who have stood up for this holiday and its beleaguered celebrants in this country. Stood up against the Jews, Muslims, gays and atheists who have had it too easy in this country. Stood up for this holiday that only has federal holiday status, radio stations playing its songs 24 hours a day for an entire month, television shows in its honor, and its decorations everywhere. So, next time you consider saying Happy Holidays, think again. Remember that this is one battle in the war. Don't let the terrorists win.

-Swimming shook ones: I mean, would you go in the water knowing these things could sidle up on your ass?

-me? Never scared.

The Soundtrack to a Robbery

Soundtrack to My Robbery

Above is the actual song that was playing in my iPod when I was robbed. I was playing it so loud in my ears that it prevented me from hearing the initial words he screamed at me. This subsequently made him angry and the situation more dangerous. I'm not sure if he chose me to punish for listening to such teenage girl crap or if the theme song to Laguna Beach reminded him of his desire to have a computer to check out fan sites. Let's hope that he will leave a comment and let us know what did it. Oh, Hilary! I almost lost my life for you!

As you can tell, Robbery Week is still in effect, as I'm trying to get back into the swing of mp3 posting. Some more Three 6 Mafia/Project Pat stuff, some Mobb Deep and then this morbid joke will end. Lots of heat coming up, as I'm going to spotlight my favorite mixtape DJ, DJ Drama, and then get to the two foci I mentioned weeks ago, DJ Screw and Miami bass. Reviews of the Lady Sovereign, SPANKROCK! and Ted Leo shows that I just attended. Finally, politics, Philly, boxing, art, you know, the usual. Exciting times, as I'mma try to get back on the daily grind here.

The Other Pound for Pounds

I have always used this blog as a forum to discuss what matters most to me: music, cities, art, etc. However, for some reason, one of my passions has gotten nary a mention here: boxing. I decided to change that today, as it has been an exciting two weeks for fight fans after a blah year. First, the best fighter in the world defended his title and reminded us why he is the best, and then a middleweight clash between one of Philly's greatest all-time fighters (which means one of the greatest all-time) and one of the best young stars in the game.

First, the only man who can rightfully claim this blog's name, "Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather, the pound for pound best fighter in the world. For those not in the know, Mayweather is the reigning super lightweight champion, having already dominated the lightweight class for a few years. He is the man, the one who has all fighters near his weight class hoping for the chance to fight him. To be the man, you got to be beat the man.

However, that's a lot simpler said than done, as Sharmba Mitchell found out two Saturdays ago. This was Mayweather's first fight as a welterweight, but the extra seven pounds seemed to have no ill effects. In fact, Mayweather toyed with him, clearly pacing himself in the fight, delivering big shot after big shot in short bursts all fight. His speed and power were too much for Mitchell (and everyone else he has faced), as there was a clear sense from the first bell that this was not an even match. However, is there an even match for Mayweather? I'm not sure, but it will be exciting to see the challenges to the throne. Mayweather's next fight must be against a serious challenger, as I agree with Dan Rafael that that's the only way for Floyd to be a legend.

This past weekend, Bernard Hopkins and Jermain Taylor met again to decide who is the undisputed middleweight champion of the world. Taylor won the first match, in a controversial decision. Part 2 was just as close, as Taylor unfortunately delivered a few more power shots than Hopkins for a unanimous victory. It is the passing of the torch in the middleweight class, as always happens. The young lion disposes of the great, older champion, who tries to make his final stand in his career. Unfortunately, Bernard was not able to pull out a final victory in his wonderful career, succumbing to the effects of age at 42. Hopkins was one of the patron saints of this blog, a hero if you will (yeah, I know they don't exist in postmodernism, but whatever), and so it is sad for me that Bernard couldn't finish on top. More to come on him, as he deserves more than a few words after a loss.

If anyone who reads this blog is a boxing fan, please get in touch. I would love to hear from other fans and not feel like such a weirdo.

-Speaking of Philadelphia fights, it's nice to see that City Council has finally enacted serious ethics reform legislation. Michael Nutter lead the way on this issue for the past few years, slowly but surely arguing for the necessity of reform. He did great work, and has only burnished his credentials to run the city. It is a good day for Philadelphia, a dawning of a new period, where the city leads the way and looks forward. Remember that it's only a beginning and not an end.

Forget why this legislation is so important? Today's papers provide a wonderful reminder, as Leonard Ross, Mayor Street's fundraiser and close friend, was indicted today for a scheme to extort $2 million from a developer trying to win the Penn's Landing competition. This competition was supposed to choose a company to develop the waterfront land at the Southern edge of the city, land that is essential to the city's future. Instead, it wasted taxpayers' money, produced no plan for the land's future and furthered the image of the city as a insider's paradise. Ross' indictment is the next step in the battle for the city's future, the struggle to open up the city to outsiders.

-Media Matters is one of the best sites going today for politics, fighting the good fight. They have undertaken the uneviable task of documenting the lies that are spewed daily from the right-wing media machine, from talk radio to Fox News to the blogosphere. They have a new design that looks great, and are a nice resource to remind oneself of what we are fighting against. Check it out and thank them for taking the time to listen to liars like O'Reilly, Hannity, Malkin, Limbaugh et al so that you don't have to.

-More Robbery Week coming up, as we're back in the gym, sparring, working the heavy bag, trying to get back in fighting shape.

The Return aka Robbery Week

Three 6 Mafia, Let's Plan a Robbery

Three 6 Mafia, Sweet Robbery

Three 6 Mafia, You Scared Part II

Three 6 Mafia, Mask and Da Glock

Sorry for the extended absence and delayed start, but I am back now with a new Mac, the music collection and a crippling case of PTSD. Unfortunately, the man who robbed me did not heed my one wish, for him to post up some booty tracks and mixtape heat to keep the masses satisfied. If you can't trust the man who stole your computer, dignity and belief in humanity, who can you trust?

I hope that we can regain our readership, as it was frustrating that this had to happen just as things seemed to be rolling. Waah waah, baby want a bottle?

-Some people may remember votes being tallied in the Miami bass vs DJ Screw vs Three 6 Mafia contest to see what would be the next mp3 focus here. That will still happen, but first, this week is dedicated to songs about robbery and stick-ups, a consistent but unappreciated side of hip hop. Let's face it, it is music based on theft in the form of the sample, a music built out of other sounds. Who better to start with than the Triple 6, the Memphis greats whose tales of violence have set the bar high?

I want to dedicate the songs this week to all of the friends who have helped me get through the past three weeks. It has been a struggle since the robbery, as playing tough and trying to forget it happened only left me more shook. It wasn't until I started talking and hanging out with friends again that I was able to get back on my feet. To MC, there aren't words to say how grateful I am that she is in my life, how wonderful she is, and all sorts of other mushy stuff I will spare you from hearing. My ride or die bitch.

-Check back early and often, as I'm going to try to make up for lost time here. I hope that this Robbery Week thing isn't too dark or disturbing, but I feel like if I don't laugh about things, I won't stop crying.