SonReal is ForReal

I'll be honest...I have heard of SonReal on different occasions, but for whatever unfortunate reason he has gone under my radar. From the looks and sounds of things, this Vancouver native has been working hard over the past couple of years and it just keeps getting better. 

SonReal has released his new project One Long Day. A free mixtape, yes that's right, you don't have to illegally download it. Tracks feature the likes of Shad and Kardinall Offishall, as well as productions from Arthur McArthur and Rich Kidd to name a few. I didn't even finish the first track before deciding that the mixtape is worth the time and praise. There is no doubt it will be a success. All of this and the fact it sounds like an album is why you should appreciate it even more. Respect to those who support hip hop, Canadian hip hop and independent record labels. 

Check out and download SonReal - One Long Day (Mixtape) 

For more artist info and music downloads visit here 

Side Note: I'm hoping to make the Buffalo, NY show. Anyone else planning on going to a show?

M A X O U T

I first heard local rapper Marcel “Moofeek” Dudi back in 2006. I was immediately impressed with the speed and creativity of his rhymes and was even happier to find out he was from St. Catharines. He has since created a name for himself as a valued artist in the city with many supporters. Now, with many years of experience and several mixtapes under his belt, Moofeek is at it again. 

Psy Fly Records presents Moofeek “Max Out” EP available for download November 26. The new EP features original music from Psy Fly producers Deek, Blue Ribbon, BWAER (pairOnormals), and Mr. Cook. Max Out is a fresh take on hip-hop that incorporates modern sounds and techniques. The beats, giving off a sci-fi/futuresque vibe, work together to produce an out of this world sound (literally and metaphorically). No two beats are the same and there is this anticipation to hear how each track changes. Moofeek delivers clever lines with his own distinctive flow. Check out 'Nasty' off the upcoming EP 'Max Out.'

Just this summer Moofeek released “Big Fish” which was a big success. The mixtape featured local artists, including Sese and many tracks produced by Deek. The mixtape was featured on HipHopCanada.com and can be streamed here.

Moofeek doesn’t waste time when it comes to working hard in the studio and creating buzz worthy music. I think someone with so much dedication and passion deserves to be recognized. If you like what you hear come out to the release party on November 26 in downtown St. Catharines or download the new EP. 
Keep your ears open...

For more event details visit here.

Follow Psy Fly Records on Twitter for more music updates

The Smell of Aerosol is in the Air

Last weekend, on Sunday, October 27 the annual Graffiti Jam, referred to as the Garden Park Urban Art Festival and Loop Graffiti Jam, took place in downtown St. Catharines.

Over 30 artists from Niagara and surrounding areas came together in Fulton’s Alley off of James St. to reinvent the walls and businesses. Once again, the art that was created did not fail to amaze me. I’m not surprised, since the artists spent an entire day and even longer working on their pieces. I think to an artist, a piece is never really completed...I'm not an artist, but I value art. I’ve learned over the years that there is always going to be something you can add or change, but either way it will still look awesome. 

I was impressed with the amount of media and sponsors the event had this year which helped make it a real success. The best part about the event is that all proceeds raised are going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Catharines-Thorold (a charitable organization dedicated to adult volunteers being mentors for children.) Also, each artist was supplied with a blank canvas to be painted and auctioned off to support BBBS. 

Live music and DJ’s performing throughout the day gave visitors even more entertainment. Each year the event keeps getting bigger and better. A lot of time and planning goes into an event like this and a big thanks to John Fulton who runs the event each year, as well as the sponsors and businesses who allowed the art work to be displayed. 

I'm excited to see what next year brings. Hopefully, the success of the event will draw attention towards these talented artists and create more legal art walls in the community.

Check it out on Facebook

Keep Shining...

City and Colour - A Look at Melbourne Street Art

I recently returned home (Canada) from being abroad for the past year (New Zealand/Australia). Before moving to Australia, I knew that Melbourne or somewhere close to it was where I wanted to settle for a bit. Mainly because it is a place with a unique culture and a strong presence of arts, theatre and music. I arrived in St. Kilda, a suburb of Melbourne in November 2012 and immediately felt comfortable and a little at home. 

Side of Iddy Biddy Bar off Acland Street

Off Carlisle St. Balaclava

Off St. Kilda Road

Alleyway off Acland Street, St. Kilda

One aspect of Melbourne that attracted me was the appreciation and accessibility of arts and culture. Melbourne is known as one of the greatest street art capitals of the world. The first time I went into the city to explore I could spot a wall with vibrant colours sticking out and saw an amazing portrait of the Joker. I soon discovered that this was Hosier Lane. Over the years, Rutledge and Hosier Lanes have become a popular tourist attraction with hundreds of people visiting daily. However, there are different opinions on the artistic quality and reputation of the spot. 

While wandering along the busy streets you never know what you're going to see, but I do know you're going to want to remember it. The laneways have people taking pictures and doing all kinds of photo shoots every day. For those who like change, within weeks it's out with the old and in with new on these walls. 

You could easily spend a day exploring all of the alleys and laneways that offer a variety of pieces and the best part is, it’s free. 

For a self-guided walking tour visit here.

Artists outside of Blender Studios

The iconic walls truly add colour to the city and the range of street art will never disappoint. You will be amazed with the work of the artists when you take the time to notice the little details and really focus on a wall. 

Most of these pieces are done on walls where artists have permission. Basically anyone, at any time can paint. But if your smart, you will make sure you have some artistic talent before attempting to burn someone else. 

Blender's Laneway

If you really don’t want to miss anything and would also like to hear what an actual street artist has to say about it all, you can go on a Melbourne Street Art guided tour. The gallery that runs the tours called Blender Studios, also often hosts many different shows. I had the chance to check out one of the shows called 'I fucking <3 Melbourne' by Will Coles. Check out his unique perspective on street art and consumerism. Follow on instagram: mrwillcoles

Keep your eyes open and go explore! If you're lucky, maybe even spot some artists in action.

Even if you're not in Aussieland, explore a city near you...