ALBUM REVIEW: Nas - Untitled

This is Nas' 9th album, entitled Untitled and previously dubbed N*gger. However, despite the name change, Mr. Jones stays consistent with the controversial subject matter. Most topics are based on politics and the state of Black America with very little talk on the industry norm of jewelry, hoes, and sex. Lyrically, this is a very heavy album, so prepare to hit the rewind button a few times. Easily one of his best works.
Drops tomorrow July 15th!

"No matter what the CD called, I'm unbeatable y'all!" - NAS

A few favs:

Hero f/ Keri Hilson

Testify

We're Not Alone f/ Mykel

**Bonus**
Newest video: "Sly Fox"

ALBUM REVIEW: Estelle - Shine

Yes, I know. I KNOW! This album has been out for a while now. April 29th, 2008 to be exact. For some odd reason I didn't think to post it. Anyway, lets get to this already. This album took me completely by surprise! It's something that I believe has been missing in the R&B world for a while now. When I initially listened to the first song, i couldn't stop moving. The energy about it is so welcoming. I would describe the sound of her voice as very refreshing and soulful. She also can hold her own when it comes to rapping as well. And i don't mean "Lip Gloss" type of lyrics either. (No disrespect to Lil Mama, lol). John Legend was the executive producer of this album. Contributions came from Cee-Lo, Mark Ronson, Swizz Beats, Will.I.AM, and Wyclef Jean. With that type of guidance, you should already know what to expect. Song topics include Independence, Sex, Love, and Relationships. With all that being said, you are truly missing out on some good stuff if you don't check this album out.

The Pusher's Favs:

Lovin' In the Rain

You Are f/ John Legend

Shine

More Than Friends

ALBUM REVIEW: N.E.R.D - Seeing Sounds

Ok, before I begin, I must say that I'm a true fan of N.E.R.D/The Neptunes. Way back to the beat of Noreaga "What What" and their 1st album "In Search Of...". I like Pharrell, but I prefer him as Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo & Shae Haley. So this review may be sliiightly biased. But then again if you wanted the review of a professional, you would've gone to Rollingstone.com or some sh*t. So here we go:

Upon hitting the play buttom, the intro is very reminiscent of Kelis' intro to "Kaleidescope" (her first album that was entirely produced by The Neptunes). What I mean by this is that Pharrell is sort of setting the stage for us, as a narrator if you will. And if you were expecting the same heavy topics such as politics, child-parent relationships, and protest songs then you may be disappointed. "Seeing Sounds" is light and fun with topics pertaining to the culture that they have been placed in: sex, drugs, and partying. Oh and the beats are crazy. They're experimental, all-over-the-place and exciting. I can honestly (and lamely) say that I am now Seeing Sounds.
In stores June 10th. Support!

"The Neptunes is what we do, but N.E.R.D. is who we are. It's our life" -Pharrell

My Standout Tracks:
Windows

Anti-Matter

Happy

ALBUM REVIEW: The Cool Kids - The Bake Sale

The Bake Sale is the first EP from the duo known as The Cool Kids. (To those of you who haven't heard of them, they're the guys in the Rhapsody commercial). Previously, they'd released an LP entitled "Totally Flossed Out" which included their first single, "Black Mags" and was a nice change from the norm in hip-hop right now. No incessant rhymes about sex, drugs and money. Only sneakers, clothes and...sneakers and clothes. Almost like a "hypebeast to an 80s-esque beat". Now, I don't mean that negatively, it's just the best description I can come up with. The only disappointment I have with "The Bake Sale" is the lack of new material. The only songs that are not from "Totally Flossed Out" are:

What Up Man

Bassment Party

Jingling


But I guess that's what is to be expected when an artist releases an EP and an LP. Overall, I'd give it a B-.

ALBUM REVIEW: Usher - Here I Stand

It's been 4 years since Usher's last album. Well, now he's back with his brand new album titled Here I Stand. I managed to get my hands on it early and I have to say it's....better than I expected. No, it's definitely not Confessions, but it's not terrible!!! It's a DECENT album. Some of the common themes I noticed were Temptation, Relationship Issues, and of course Sex.
I'd give it a B- to a C+.

There were a few tracks that stood out to me:

• Trading Places
• Moving Mountains
• What's Your Name
• Something Special
• Best Thing
• Love In This Club Part II