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we were able to survive the Around 10:15, the line was still held outside, at which point my testicles had completely rescinded and I went numb.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.

The Sound of Music

The hills are alive with the sound of music
With songs they have sung for a thousand years
The hills fill my heart with the sound of music
My heart wants to sing every song it hears

I go to the hills when my heart is lonely
I know I will hear what I've heard before
My heart will be blessed with the sound of music
And I'll sing once more

Substitute Pound for Pound for the hills, iPod for heart, and the news should be obvious. For those a little slow on the uptake or just uncomfortable with Julie Andrews, get ready for the resumption of mp3s here.

Shout the good news out to the world, as we're back in business.

Things That Are Making Me Smile Part 1

Amazingly, the news has been cheering me up, which is either a good sign for the state of the country, or a bad sign for the state of my life. For real, though, there have been some nice developments in politics, sports and music that have put me in a better mood- a little sun on a cloudy day.

-The Democrats won both Governor's races last Tuesday, in New Jersey and Virginia. The Virginia one is especially exciting because it comes in a red state that voted for Bush by a nine % point margin in 2004. Bush actually made a campaign push for the Republican nominee on Monday, and it seemed to have a negative impact. The Republican nominee for NJ Governor, Doug Forrester, blamed Bush for his loss. Nice to see the GOP big tent collapsing under the weight of corruption and ineptitude. However, heed kos' words that this is just the beginning, that we need to keep the Republicans reeling.

-Philly voters overwhelmingly approved a change to the City Charter that will enable ethics reform to go forward. It was 6 to 1 voting yes, a clear and loud message that voters do care about this issue. Again, this is just a beginning. We must keep the focus on this issue and the pressure on members of City Council.

-The Philadelphia Flyers look great. although they lost in overtime last night. I cannot begin to tell you how nice it is to have my boys back in action, winning, playing well and taking my mind off of things. Actually, this is just a shameless way to boost Canadian readership, but whatever.

-lemon-red! Bol is straight killin' it. Go here and check out the new monthly mix, this time by DJ Benzi. Go here and grab the DJ Eleven mix, Houston Rocks It, as one of The Rub DJs takes you on a journey through the hip hop history of everyone's favorite city, H-Town. Go here for the man's first foray into mix making, a nice start and hopefully the first of many.

-Thanks to the good guys at Those Two Words for the kind words over at their site and in the comments section. It's real nice to have them back writing and updating on a consistent basis. Go check them out here, or use the link on the right as I have finally added them to the links list. It's one of the best hip hop news sources around.

More to come later in the week on the positive, as I try to stay on the Bobby McFerrin grind.

Monday Did Not Happen

That's right. Monday did not happen, there was no football game or telegraphed pass or returned interception or injured quarterback. Nothing.

We will have a post up shortly, as Pound for Pound is desperately trying to think happy thoughts. The only one coming to mind is that things can't get worse. Right? They can't, can they?*

(Robber, please post Burt Bacharach's "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head" now. Thanks.)

RIP Arrested Development

In a fitting end to a shitty week, Arrested Development, the FOX sitcom, was dropped from the November sweeps schedule Friday. While the show is due to return in December, the network has cut the third season to 13 episodes. In other words, the show has been cancelled, fulfilling the threats of FOX executives and the worst fears of its fans. There are 5 more episodes this year and that's it. It will not return in the new year.

This is really upsetting news for me, as this was the one. The only show that I got excited to watch, that I waited for each week, my TV jawn. What does the future hold for Pound for Pound's TV time? I guess that I will continue to let my inner 16 year girl out, solely watching MTV programming. I am thankful that both seasons are available on DVD, as it's nice to know that I can always watch the show and pretend it's still on. Go here to buy them.

More than anything, it's a sad day for TV viewers. I know y'all are watching lots of TV, but I just can't figure out what you're watching? Law and Order: Short Hills? Some girl with implants eating worms for money? A family terrorized by a morbidly obese, Christian maniac who was swapped for their real wife/mom? Bobby and Whitney? The Danny Bonaduce train wreck? (Wait, that last one's legit.) We let something unique and creative die, and so we deserve all the reality show crap that fill the air. The folks at TV Squad have a far better attack on the people who didn't like the show.

The cancellation's got the Internet going nuts. The people at Fox's Arrested Development forum are plotting a revolution. For real, that is the subject of a post. Here is the site dedicated to bringing the show back from the dead. Read this lament from someone who watches TV for a living, The Arizona Republic's Bill Goodykoontz, who makes it clear just how bad this news is. As Goodykoontz (a simply awesome last name) says, "This is perfect television." The Moderate Voice weighs in, as does TV Fodder and TV Elites.

Finally, a big fuck you to FOX. Your pathetic network had a real treasure, the best comedy on television. A successful network would have made this work, like NBC did with Friends or CBS with that pile of shit Everybody Loves Raymond. Unfortunately, the douchebags at FOX are too concerned with finding new ways to switch wives or make people cheat on their boyfriends to promote an Emmy winner. Great job, guys, as I guess that you can focus all of your attention on the greatest comedy of all, FOX News. Learn your lesson and stick to propaganda.

It is a shame that there will be no more Michael, Gob and Buster, but I still hold out hope that another network will step up and find a home for the best TV show since Seinfeld. HBO, stand up!

Free Anyan!

You Can't Take Away My Dignity

I am sorry for the brief absence, but the real world frighteningly intruded into my life Monday. I was robbed at gunpoint, and had my laptop and some money taken. The good news is that I escaped without being harmed physically, and did not pee or defecate in my pants in the moment. I am, however, a shook one right now, trying to get back on my feet and back into the real world as best I can.

I'm going to try to post up regularly, as honestly it has helped writing and looking at the news and checking out blogs and doing my general nerd stuff. It's helped get my mind off of my own troubles, and that's all I can ask for right now. (Well, that, and a brand new laptop, powerful pharmeceuticals and world peace.)

However, I am not going to be posting up music for the foreseeable future, until a new computer is purchased and my music is back on a machine. Perhaps if we are lucky, the armed robber will feel free to upload some Miami bass and DJ Screw tracks on yousendit for everyone to enjoy, as it would be nice to know that the music is being enjoyed and shared.

Well, that's about all for now. I am sorry to say that this blog won't be living up to its potential for now, but it is nice to know that it will have its day again.

Scooter? I Hardly Knew Her!

We now return to everyone's favorite chief of staff and traitor, Scooter Libby. Last we left our hero, he was awaiting the decision of Patrick Fitzgerald, the U.S. attorney investing the CIA leak case. Last Friday, he was indicted on 5 charges: 2 counts of perjury, 1 count of obstruction of justice, 2 counts of lying to a grand jury. All in all, he could serve a maximum of 30 years. Serious time. A chance for him to hit the weights, get his degree, convert to Islam, figure out his true feelings for Dick Cheney. Go here (pdf) to read the indictment.

He was in court yesterday for arraignment, pleading not guilty. The trial has begun, and it should help remind everyone that the indictment wasn't an end, but rather a beginning. Don't forget that there is so much more to come, as evidenced by Karl Rove's uncertain future. The Washington Post reports that aides are discussing whether he should resign or formally apologize. Jane at firedoglake has some great thinking on this article. Even better, contrary to the Right's talking points, Rove is still under investigation in the leak case.

-Libby resigned as the Vice President's chief of staff last Friday, as well. Are you wondering who was picked to replace Libby as Cheney's chief of staff? You are, aren't you? Wondering if the White House and Dick Cheney have learned from the Libby indictment? No, they have not. David Addington has been named as Libby's successor as Cheney's chief of staff. TAPPED has the story on him, the man called one of the president's "torture lawyers" by Slate. Even better, Cheney's new national security advisor, John Hannah, is closely tied to the lies that lead us to war. Matt Yglesias links to this Knight Ridder article about Hannah's pivotal role in the bogus claims that was used as evidence to bring us to war. Oh, and both men are pivotal actors in the leaking of Valerie Plame's name to the press.

-Speaking of torture, are you missing the stories about Abu Ghraib? Feeling a bit of pride when you consider our country, the US of A? Well, do I have a tale for you. The Washington Post has the story that the CIA has been hiding terror suspects in secret prisons in Eastern Europe, prisons that were once used by Soviet police. You want more? Dick Cheney has chosen his cause: torture. He is ACTIVELY lobbying members of the Senate to add a CIA exception to John McCain's bill banning torture by any American. Other members of the administration are even disturbed at how far down the slope they have gone.

In light of all of these stories, Cenk Uygur asks the fundamental question: What have we become?

-With such scary news out there, go to Laundromat United and grab the nice Halloween mix that Lambo and Capski put together for the holiday. We Mix On Their Graves is really great stuff.

-I have been sleeping on a great blog from a Philly bol, Trapper Juan. Drew's got lots of links and thoughts on topics ranging from rap to myspace to Barry Melrose's hair. Anyone who gets harrassed and stalked by people who frequent the OkayPlayer message board and references the greatest MASH character has to be alright in my book.

We Got It For Oops Volume 1

Clipse, We Got It For Cheap Volume 2

Sorry, I'm going to have to wait to put up We Got It For Cheap Volume 1, as I am in NYC and away from my CDs. In its place, I am putting up We Got It For Cheap Volume 2, a logical replacement. More to come on these two volumes, as I will get Volume 1 up in two shakes of a lamb's tail.

Keep the votes coming in on the next focus here at Pound for Pound.

DJ Screw vs. Miami bass vs. Three 6 Mafia

Vote or Die

We Got It For Cheap Volume 1

Clipse, We Got It For Cheap Volume 1

[Ed. note: I just realized that I am missing a few songs. I'll have the whole thing up tomorrow, so check back. Sorry for the delay.]

Okay, here is the mixtape that everyone is talking about, or was talking about 6 months ago. I'm usually about a year behind on trends, so I'm actually kinda proud of myself on this one.

While it may be old as Moses for a mixtape, We Got It For Cheap 1 is still being talked about, as it is so much more than the typical throwaway shit that just tries to collect the latest songs and blends/remix them into one package. Ain't nothing wrong with that, but they usually don't get more than a week's long listen, before one moves on to the newest shit, yamean? This one holds up months later, as Clinton Sparks and The Clipse have put together the gold standard for all mixtapes with these two volumes, elevating the mixtape to an art form.

The first one is the weaker of the two, with not enough Pusha and Malice and a bit too much Ab Liva and Sandman, the two new members who helped to form the Re-Up Gang. It's still got some great shit, with "Coast to Coast," "Pussy (Remix)," and some freestyles over LL Cool J's "I Shot Ya." More to come when I put up Volume 2 later in the week, as I want to get into the music and some of the interesting pieces that have been written about these two mixes.

-Be still my sad, dejected heart. The Democrats found their fight today, lead by the Senate minority leader Harry Reid. Today, Reid brilliantly called a closed session of the Senate, in order to force the body to continue the investigation of pre-war intelligence, invoking a little used Senate rule. This report has been delayed because of the foot-dragging of Pat Roberts, the head of the Senate Intelligence Committee, the administration and the Republican leadership. That all changed this afternoon, and Harry Reid and Richard Durbin deserve the credit. As Arthur Silber says, "We may finally have an opposition party again. And just in the nick of time." I couldn't think of better news.

Go here to read Reid's speech on the Senate floor before he called for the closed session. Go here for the video of the speech and resulting fit that Bill Frist threw to reporters. Awesome stuff. Steve Clemons has been on this story all day, and is the best resource to know what's going on, who is behind this, and what this all means.

-Like Gatorade at the end of a marathon, light at the end of a tunnel, or a valium at the end of a panic attack,the NBA season begins tonight. Sixers open with the Milwaukee Bucks tonight. More basketball talk in the future, but in the meantime, check out Straight Bangin' (so necessary season preview here and here) and Wizznuttz for all your basketball needs. Any other good basketball sites, let me know.

The Scariest Day of The Year

That's right, it's October 31st, Halloween, a night for ghouls and goblins, when scary stories are told and horror movies watched. This year, no one needs that fake shit, we've got the real thing. What else to say about the nomination of Samuel Alito, a man dubbed "Scalito" and "Scalia-lite"? He is the Right's wet dream, Princeton, Yale Law, white, male, against judicial activism except when it serves the interests of conservatisim. Quite simply, it's a treat for the right wing/religious conservatives, who demanded repayment for bringing Bush victory in 20o4, and a trick for everyone else who just wants the government to serve everyone's interests.

It wasn't hard to see that Bush, beset by scandal and incompetence, would play to his base, those who want to overturn Roe v, Wade, who want the Court uphold states' rights except if the state wants to do something they don't like, who want to return to earlier times before Roe, the Voting Rights Act, Social Security. It's also not shocking that he would rush this decision in order to get the news of his Vice President's involvement in the CIA leak out of the news. While I understand the need to change the subject, he did not consult any Democratic senators on this decison. Are you fucking kidding me?

It is a really sad and pathetic choice by Bush. There is nothing sadder than seeing a man brought to his knees by his patrons, but there is no other way to see this. He talked diversity before, he talked about bringing people together, he talked about a new voice other than a federal court judge, he talked. That will be the gist of the man's presidency. He talked a good game, but his actions were simply the work of an incompetent, a liar and a fraud. A conservative who destroyed the federal budget. A uniter who divided worse than ever before. An ethical man (unlike the previous President) whose second term is marred by scandals everywhere. The 9/11 President who has done nothing to capture the man responsible for it, who lead us into a war that has only benefitted our enemies, and a man under whose administration our government has done nothing to protect our citizens from another attack. He talked about Iraq, but did nothing to plan for the reality on the ground.

Philly's own Atrios has already picked up on my theme here, as he looks at the words of Scott McClellan today at his press briefing, picked up by Think Progress. "Cooperating fully with the Special Counsel"? Scooter Libby was indicted for obstruction of fucking justice! All I can say is: Calgon, TAKE ME AWAY!

-After this kind of day, it only makes sense to go out and dress up, drink too much and have fun, as there is no sense sitting at home worrying, imagining doomsday and reading too much news. That's my job. Everyone else, go to Sway tonight for Roxy's Halloween party. Diplo is spinning, along with Catchdubs and I-Trak. In Brooklyn, Caps and Jones are holding it down at Savalas (second best flier, btw). In Philly, Philebrity celebrates the holiday with Monster Mash-Up (please, G-d, no actual mash-ups, please). Yah Mos Def, DJ Ron Morelli of Reagan Disko Headache and strippers.

-Before you head out, make sure to head over to lemon-red and grab his October mix as this is your last chance. Certified Bananas, it is indeed. More to come on l-r, as big things are going down for bol from what I hear and read.

-Also, a last chance to grab this mix over at Yewknee, a Halloween/spooky themed one that should hold up for the rest of the year, looking ahead to the horror lies in the news. [Via Catchdubs]

-This week at Pound for Pound, we will be getting back to the music, as I promise to upload the two Clipse mixtapes. I will put up some pics and thoughts on the madness that was Child's Play Friday night. More Scooter Libby stuff, Supreme Court, state of the world, blah blah blah. I'm also going to give youse guys and girls a chance to vote on the next mp3 focus here: Three 6 Mafia vs. Miami Bass vs DJ Screw.

What Are You Going To Be For Halloween?

How's it do? I wanted to check in and drop some link-y goodness, as I'm gonna save the two Clipse mixtapes for the weekend. Big news today, as it appears that George W. Bush is going as a weasel this year. He nixed the nomination of his good buddy and the President of the Official W Fan Club, Harriet Miers today. It isn't surprising news, as no one had stepped up to defend her from the constant attacks of the past few weeks. Josh Marshall has a good post looking back at Miers and forward to the next choice. Mark Schmitt does the same.

As for the next choice, be afraid, be very afraid. Bush caved into the radical right wing with Miers, and he will make sure to please his voting base with this next nomination. Maybe Ruth Ginsburg can dress up as a white, male, strict constructionist.

-I would love to see Karl Rove and "Scooter" Libby go as criminals this year, dressed in orange jumpsuits or those black and white numbers a la the Hamburgler. No indictments today, but most people seem to think that they will be announced tomorrow. *Late Update: Libby to be indicted tomorrow, Rove not indicted, grand jury will be extended by Fitzgerald, investigation to continue. [Via Talking Points Memo]*

Murray Waas has the story of the day in The National Journal, writing that Dick Cheney and Libby withheld documents from the Senate Intelligence Committee last year. Rep. Jerry Nadler has asked Congress to expand Fitzgerald's investigation to answer whether the White House deceived Congress in order to get us to war. Tip of the iceberg, he says. Josh Marshall and Laura Rozen are leading the charge to expose more of the iceberg, putting the focus on the reason for Joe Wilson's trip way back when: the forged documents that said Iraq was trying to buy uranium from Niger.

-It seems safe to say that everyone in the White House is dressing as Ashton Kutcher, punking the citizens of this country. How else to explain this story? (Or this one?) Iraq, Katrina, Wilma, SCOTUS, huge deficits, Iran and Syria? Fuck that, we need to take down The Onion. For real, this is not a joke. (Via TA)

- Do you have plans for Halloween weekend? I will be here in Philly Friday night, that is definite. Great flier, crazy cool event. Halloween party in a funeral home? Yes, yes. I hope to make it to some of the cool events in NYC this weekend too, as The Rub is Saturday, Caps and Jones in Brooklyn and Diplo with Catchdubs in the West Village on Halloween night.

-What's that? What am I going as? Slick Rick, with a possible reprise of my Flavor Flav costume from Hollerween last year at the Ukie. Holler.

Locked Up! I Hope They Don't Let Them Out

This is a special "Indictments Issue" of Pound for Pound, as we take a look at two scandals bringing down awful people in D.C. and Philly.

-I want to scream this news to the world, but instead I am going to write it for my four readers. According to Steve Clemons, indictments in the Valerie Plame leak case are coming out Thursday morning. The target letters have already been sent to the indicted, the court will receive them tomorrow sealed, and the world will find out the next day. Go here and read his post for the specifics, and then take a deep breath. Think Progress updates with a CBS story, which confirms that Patrick Fitzgerald will announce his decision to indict today. Even better, CBS introduces a Mr. X to the story, claiming he is the real source of the leak. All I'mma say is this; if it's Donald Sutherland, I'm going to shit the bed. Anyway, I waited this day out to give you the latest news, and here it is. Grand jury adjourned for the day.

-In more local news, Rick Mariano, Philadelphia City Councilman, was indicted Tuesday afternoon. This warms my heart as much as the White House scandal, as it's another front in the war against corruption in the city. He is accused of taking bribes in return for his political support, as he helped out a few businessmen in his district. Shockingly, he has been one of the people working and voting against ethics reform.

You know what? I had another nice, long rant to put here, but I am going to save it. I'm going to be starting something up soon that will allow me to discuss Philly, NYC, cities in greater detail, as I want to keep the focus on music, art, politics here. The short version of the rant is this: It's time for the people of Philadelphia to stand up and say enough is enough, or forever acknowledge that we don't deserve a better city. Philadelphia: America's Hometown shows the next step that we can all take on November 7.

-More music later today, as I'm going to be putting up music from The Clipse, more specifically both volumes of We Got It For Cheap. The King James/Bun B mixtape should be up in the next hour or so, so go grab it.

King James Presents...Bun B-The King of the Underground

King James Presents...Bun B- The King of the Underground

Okay, as promised, here is another Bun B mixtape that collects his verses. It's an amazing document, another attempt to chronicle the career of one of the greatest. The reason for the upload is the complete lack of info or even availability to buy a copy, as I feel the need to spread the man's music as much as possible. I just feel that this should be heard by everyone, especially those just getting into Bun's music. It is a long one, 3 discs worth of music, 190 MB. It's a similar concept to the Rapid Ric one, King of the Trill (which can still be downloaded at Houston So Real) featuring Bun's guest appearances and mixtape songs.

Of course, you're playing yourself and me if you haven't copped the new album, Trill. Go here and buy it, as it gets better with each listen. It's going to be talked about as the best album of the year, so get in now.

Please leave thanks or complaints in the comments section, as I wasn't sure if posting a whole mixtape made sense.

-Ooowee, I came across this older post over at Government Names while looking for more DJ Screw info. An amazing job by Dylan_K, as he reviews 10 Screw tapes that kill it. This isn't your basic overview (like what I spit out all the time), but instead is an amazing piece that ties criticism, humor and history together. I'll probably come back to this one again. Check out Government Names, the best source on the music coming out from below the Mason-Dixon line, simply the best.

-An even bigger holy shit with this story in today's New York Times. We now learn that Dick Cheney was Scooter Libby's source for the name of Joe Wilson's wife at the CIA. This means that Libby lied in his grand jury testimony, when he told Patrick Fitzgerald that a journalist was his source. Jane Hamsher at firedoglake believes that Cheney committed perjury. Larry Johnson discusses this latest news, wondering about the names lurking in the background. Steve Clemons hammers home the key point: "For now, we can know that the Vice President of the United States was neck-deep in this affair and knew it ALL along."

-Great commercial for Guinness beer, especially in light of this Pennsylvania case. [Via Crooked Timber]

UGK and DJ Screw

Bun B and Pimp C freestyles over UGK's "Fuck My Car"

Bun B freestyle over Mac-10's "Fo Life"

Pimp C and Grace freestyle over MC Lyte's "Keepin' On"

Bun B and Grace freestyle over Ice Cube's "Check Yo Self"

Pimp C freestyle over Lady of Rage's "Afro Puffs"

Again, I must reiterate that UGK sound so perfect slowed down, or at least, they sound perfect to me. [Disclaimer: I actually like music screwed and chopped, and listen to DJ Screw tapes for fun. No, I am not kidding. And yes, this does mean that I am on a special FBI watch list originally formed to keep track of white guys with dreads.] It's just something about Bun and Pimp's drawls that fit perfectly with the slowwwwwed down sound, as these tracks hopefully verify.

These tracks come off of the Ridin' Dirty tape, and should give you a sense of the screwed sound. Slow, woozy, audio molasses. Side A of the tape is mostly Bun B and Pimp C freestyles over other beats (West Coast classics, mainly), all tracks screwed by the master, DJ Screw a.k.a. Robert Davis. These tracks should also give you a great sense of the DJ Screw tapesthat are slowly spreading East and West. This is a good one, one of those amazing documents of the UGK bols in a laid-back environment just dropping verses for the hell of it. It's necessary just for the Pimp free-flow speech at the end of Side A: ""Screw fuck with my..." Bitch, Screw don't fuck with your old busted ass cousin." Go here to grab this tape and all the others, as this is the only official site, the only one that benefits Robert Davis' estate. We will come back to Screw, when I have more material to post up.

-Great Bun B inteview over at The Fader, properly titled "Royalty."

-Speaking of great things in Texas, Tom Delay was booked Friday morning in lieu of his indictment on money laundering and conspiracy charges. Above is his mugshot (via The Smoking Gun), where he attempted his first human gesture with that "natural" smile. We'll see if he is still wearing that smug, shit-eating grin when he heads to prison, and if they let him keep his toupee and dentures so shiny and clean-looking in the slammer.

-I'm going to upload another Bun B mixtape later tonight, King James Presents...Bun B-The Underground King. It's a long one, 3 CDs, and an amazing document of the man. Have you bought his fucking album yet? Go here and buy it now.

Cam'ron Shot In Failed Carjacking

I just saw this one on the wire, although it may be old news to many. Cam'ron was shot early this morning in Washington D.C., as an attempted carjacking turned violent. It sounds like Cam'ron, a.k.a. Cameron Giles, is okay, and in no serious risk, as the bullet hit both his arms. Go here to read a better account at SOHH.com, and here to read MTV's coverage.

Favorite part of the story: his manager is called Big Joe in the Reuters story. Just Big Joe, no last name, no quotes around Big, nothing. We are all living in a Dip Set world now.

-In other breaking news today, it seems likely Patrick Fitzgerald is planning on bringing charges this week in the Valerie Plame leak case. Go here for the story, here for a helpful look at the cast of this story, and here to see the website that the feds set up Friday afternoon. It's going to be an interesting week, as I can barely sleep at the thought of Rove, Libby et al being indicted.

-I am going to put up a special mixtape or two this coming week, finish up the look at UGK and generally kill it. It's just a real big week for the country, people, a real big week.