Wednesday, 1 February 2012

NBA Grades To This Point, Dan's Top 10 Films of 2011, plus Fresh Hip Hop!

Clearly I was waiting for this to happen before I began a recap on the NBA season so far... 


....after all this might be what we remember most after this season is all said and done.

Good day! to the literate of the technologically literate, we find ourselves at the end of January, does your 2012 still hold the same promise it did 3 weeks ago? I hope so. So what's there to look forward to this time around? We'll start by shooting the breeze with regard to the first quarter of the NBA season, my dear brother Dan writes in with his personal top 10 movies from 2011, and I'll be dropping a new hip hop 2.0. But first things first, humour of the dirtier persuasion.

A cowboy walks into a bar and takes a seat next to a very attractive woman.
He gives her a quick glance then causally looks at his watch for a moment.
The woman notices this and asks, "Is your date running late?"
"No", he replies,"I just got this state-of the-art watch, and I was just testing it.."
The intrigued woman says, "A state-of-the-art watch? What"s so special about it?"
The cowboy explains, "It uses alpha waves to talk to me telepathically."
The lady says, "What"s it telling you now?"
Well, it says you"re not wearing any panties."
The woman giggles and replies "Well it must be broken because I am wearing panties!"
The cowboy smiles, taps his watch and says, "Damn thing"s an hour fast."

I like the sounds of this cheeky sci-fi cowboy. A real throw back to the future. Off we go... 

The NBA Quartermester Mark's - Hard to believe but the NBA has reached the 1st quarter mark already, all teams having played at least 17 games of the super compressed 66 game schedule. Goes without saying that the Knicks have been an epic disappointment to this point and there is no white light at the end of the tunnel in view at the moment. (Baron Davis...pffff...I don't like the sounds of that.) Anyway, without rambling further into the Knicks mediocrity, lets take a look at what we've seen to this point. I've put my Mr. Budd teacher cap on here and listed a grade to this point. The grade is partly based on a scale in my head, or rubric rather of what I expected (hmm we'll make that, how bout, 40%) and their actual level of achievement (let's say, 60%). Obviously this is very subjective but a good example would be the Philadelphia 76'ers, who will get a bump because they get 40/40 for playing well above expectation. While the Miami Heat have played at a high level of achievement (15-5, like Philly) I maybe would have expected even more from the Heat, losing DWade for much of this stretch certainly tempers expectations, but you get it. I've included a prognosticated record of what I expect they'll finish the season with.

East: The East has been pretty disappointing so far. The same favourites, the Heat and Bulls, remain the runaway class of the conference. Some of the East's largest disappointments reside in the Atlantic division; where the Celtics and Knicks have stumbled out of the gate, allowing the Philadelphia 76'ers to jump to the top of the division, but will they make any noise in the conference. Orlando continues to hold Dwight Howard hostage, or is it the other way around, I can't remember? Overall the East has very little middle class and a lot of bottom feeders. In many ways the worst score you can get is the dreaded C- to C+ because that means your team is good enough to compete on the day to day but won't be competing for a championship. At least the worst squads have a chance to land a blue chipper in the lottery. I'm looking at you Raps, Bobcats and Cavs, don't go out their looking to overachieve or play your vets even. It's a stars league, be patient, get your star build around him. Simple as that. The only caveat to this being the New Jersey Nets, because they can't afford to be too poor or it could mean the departure of Deron Williams, making last spring's trade with the Jazz a complete nightmare. Many of these teams will be studying hard for summer school. (Read: The 2013 NBA Draft)

Atlanta Hawks - Grade : B-  - Classic middling team. (Re: Classic meaning same not great; as in "classic Dave" or "same quirky Dave". Shout out Dave Clare. Who, incidentally is great.) Perennially a great regular season team in recent seasons, but that has lead to nothing in the playoffs. Team has great depth and that continues to be a boost in the regular season but has translated into playoff success. Same Hawks. Record: (15-6). End of Season Record: (45-21).

Boston Celtics - Grade: D - Are the Celts are finally starting to feel their age? Certainly seems so, stumbling out of the gate the C's look pretty beat up already, early in the 2012 season. If the team is still middling at 500. come the trade deadline does that mean it's time for Danny Ainge to blow things up? Not likely as the Celts remain in the Eastern Conference and there's a real chance that .500 gets you into the playoffs. Record: (9-10). End of Season Record: (34-32).

Cleveland Cavs - Grade: C+ which for the Cav's future means A- - Cavs have an exciting piece in Kyrie Irving. Cavs have an exciting piece in Kyrie Irving. Cavs have an...your get the point. Of course they're going to get a low grade but isn't that what they want. Does Jamison deserve to get out of this purgatory? Does anybody else want him? He's playing too good here, Cavs need more L's.  Record: (8-11). End of Season Record: (22-44).

Charlotte Bobcats - Grade: F - We've already confirmed throughout both the lockout and throughout free agency that nobody wants to play in Charlotte, turns out the same is true of those players who are already under contract there as well. Charlotte stinks. Record: (3-18). End of Season Record: (15-51).

Chicago Bulls - Grade: A - After setting last season's regular wins high water mark it's clear the Bulls have bigger sights in 2012. Despite a rash of minor injuries the Bulls continue to display their both their overall team depth and outstanding team defense, leading to a continued trend in the win column. Record: (17-5). End of Season Record: (52-14).

Detroit Pistons - Grade: F - This is not a fun team to watch. Last in points per game, losing by an average margin of double digits points per game. Yuck. If Detroit and Toronto merged, they might make the playoffs. And even then they'd only make it in the East. Explain why re-signing all of their mediocre talent from last season (In which they also sucked.) seemed like a wise move?.  Record: (4-17). End of Season Record: (17-49).

Indiana Pacers - Grade: B+ - This is a fun team to watch, lots of athletes, great depth and youth. A team built for the compressed schedule and showing it to this point. Will the Pacers continue to play at this pace when it comes time to gear the rotations back in the playoffs remains to be seen. Record: (13-6). End of Season Record: 39-27

Miami Heat - Grade: A- - Despite being being down one of it's "Big Two + Chris Bosh", the Heat have looked pretty good thus far. Bosh has picked up his play in the absence of Wade, and Lebron continues to log astounding stat lines on an almost nightly basis. (Record: 15-5). End of Season Record: (44-22)

Milwaukee Bucks - Grade: C - Scott Skiles has these guys playing hard but most nights that's not enough. Let's see a shoot first point guard, a disgruntled aging swing man, and a band-aid big man. Time to start over with talent that will play hard. Record: (8-11.) End of Season Record: (28-38)

New Jersey Nets - Grade: F - "Am I sure I want to stick around here?" New Jersey's worst fears will be realized if Deron Williams starts asking himself that question and the Nets keep performing like they have. Williams performance not exempt either. Record: (7-14). End of Season Record: (23-43)

New York Knicks - Grade: F - Where do I start? This team is a mess - no depth, no point guard, no defense,  a coach that wants to play an up-tempo pace put doesn't have the personnel. Melo' is one of the best half court scorers, and Chandler is one of the leagues best half court defenders. Sorry D'Antoni, but you should make things with the tools you've got. My opinion is they need a coaching change but I think they're hoping the DAntoni's ties to Steve Nash will lead him to head there. I don't think that's worth waiting for. If there is any truth to this rumour that we could trade Chandler and Amare to Orlando for Dwight Howard, I say do it. Two guys that haven't been overly durable, for a guy that in one position gives the Knicks the same thing they get out of two positions; defense on one end and and offensive scoring on the other end. Still need to become a half court grind it out team though to utilize Howard at his best, but I think that trade makes all the sense in the world, and if it could happen, pull the trigger NY, it's our only hope! Record: (7-13). End of Season Record:  Ahhh this hurts... 33-33. We gottta get to .500. Too Greedy?

Orlando Magic - Grade B- - Orlando, Orlando aren't you in a tough place; close enough to compete for something this season to keep Dwight's interest in you, but will you still be around when the season ends, both title-wise and maybe more importantly, Dwight Howard-wise? If not, they face the ultimate risk of losing Dwight to free agency for nothing and all you need do is look at the Raptors and Cavs to see how that goes. Otis Hill, the Knicks are on line one. Record: (12-8). End of Season Record: (41-25).

Philadelphia Sixers - Grade A - Probably the surprise of the Eastern Conference to this point. Young and athletic, Doug Collins has the Sixers competing on a nightly basis. Their depth and pressuring defense has people talking about them as the East's dark horse in the 2012 campaign. Record: (14-6). End of Season Record: (38-28)

Toronto Raptors - Grade D - The Raptors seem to have more of a defensive spark with Dwayne Casey at the helm and Bargani has been a bright spot on the offensive end especially, but the team still lacks the talent for any kind of playoff aspirations, best to collect a high draft pick and continuing the rebuilding process, sorry Barbosa. Record:(7-14). End of Season Record: (21-45).

Washington Wizards - Grade F - The Wizards are the worst team in the league this season, no veteran leadership and a team full of knuckleheads, I'm sure getting the axe was more a blow of relief than anything else for poor Flip Saunders. Record: (4-16 ). End of Season Record: (15-51).

West: The West has been a highly competitive bunch compared to it's counterparts int he East to this point. With spots 3 through 9 all just separated by a mere game and a half. This could be an exciting trend through the final half of the season as teams jockey for position. Could be a season in which a couple of 4-0 week can be the difference between having home court advantage and missing the post season altogether. Dallas seems to have taken a step back with the declining health of Jason Kidd and the loss of Tyson Chandler and Caron Butler, making the West a wide open conference. Early on it seems as though it's OKC's conference too lose. With 3 very young and very talent former lottery picks in Westbrook, Durant and Harden, the Thunder are only getting better and are looking like the early favourite in the West. An well, you'd think Kobe would like to have something to say about the Wild West before it's all said and done as well.  The West boasts a much better middle class than the East, with teams like Denver, Utah, Memphis, Houston, Portland and the Clippers ready to take down old stalwarts the Spurs, Mavs, and the Lakers on any given night. Throw the Thunder in the overall mix and a couple of teams are going to be left on the outside looking in. And if Minnesota can continue to compete and find away to sneak itself into the playoffs we can start talking about Kevin Love for MVP type stuff.
 
Dallas Mavericks - Grade C+ - Championship hangover or a completely overhauled bench that's not quite as good. (No Butler, Barea, or Chandler) I'd like to think it's the former but it's probably the latter. Record: (13-8). End of Season Record: (42-24).

Denver Nuggets - Grade B+ - Turns out the Nugs have done better in the Knicks trade then we initially thought, going 32-13 since the blockbuster deal. George Karl earning his pay, has the Nuggets playing hard and playing together. Record: (14-6). End of Season Record: (41-25).

Golden State Warriors - Grade D- - Warriors two best players still play the same position, and they still struggle to pay any defense in spite of Mark Jackson's request for "grown man moves". The Warriors are going no where fast, but at least they go fast. Record: (6-12). End of Season Record: (19-47).

Houston Rockets - Grade B- - The Rockets haven't worked out, they made a big trade and it didn't work out (C.Paul to L.A. trade). After starting out very slow they've won 8 of their last 10. They're not good, but not bad enough. Basketball purgatory. Record: (12-8). End of Season Record: (34-32).

Los Angeles Clippers - Grade B+ - The Clips have been up to the task, maybe not lobs wise, but basketball wise and that's all that matters. The substance behind the style has made it's presence known in LA, doing it without Paul at times, which is saying something. Record: (12-6). End of Season Record:(46-20).

Los Angeles Lakers - Grade C+ - Kobe has done everything in his power to keep the Lakers both relevant and afloat to this point. When Bynum plays with inspiration they have something, when he doesn't, they doesn't, er, they don't. Record: (12-9). End of Season Record: (41-25).

Oklahoma City Thunder - Grade A - The Thunder have picked up right where they left off last season. Young, talented and deep this team looks primed to declare itself as the class of the West. Record: (16-3). End of Season Record: (52-14)

Memphis Grizzlies - Grade C+ - The Grizz stumbled out of the gate and the loss of Zach Randolph certainly left them very thin up front, but they've since rallied and are looking like a playoff team going forward, though it won't be easy in the ultra competitive West. Record: (10-9). End of Season Record: (35-31).

Minnesota Timberwolves - Grade B- -  T'Wolves have become relevant if only for the exciting brand of basketball they play. Most of the credit for that has to go to Ricky Rubio who's passing abilities have left everybody talking. Oh ya, and Kevin Love is pretty good too. Record: (9-11). End of Season Record: (31-35).

New Orleans Hornets - Grade F - The Hornets continue to be the doormat of the West. Without Eric Gordon this team cannot compete with the other talented teams both in the division and in the conference. Couple that with Eric Gordan's reported reluctance in re-signing with the Hornets, and Stern's trade may not be looking as good for the Hornet's future after all. Record: (4-16). End of Season Record: (15-51).

Phoenix Suns - Grade C - When your two best players are in their late 30's (Grant Hill and Steve Nash) it's time to give it up and start over. Not even the acclaimed trainers of the Phoenix Suns can fight off father time forever. Stay it along with me now, "Free Steve Nash!". Record: (7-12). End of Season Record: (25-41).

Portland Trailerblazers - Grade B - Trailerblazers are looking real good at this point. They've picked up their tempo and LaMarcus Alderidge is making the people of Rip City forget about Greg Oden's bad feet and Brandon Roy's career crippling knee problems. Go Blazers. Record: (12-8). End of Season Record: (40-26).

Sacramento Kings - Grade D- - The Kings dumped Paul Westphal early and rightfully so, the team had lost it's way. When you watch this team it's like just watching a bunch of pieces play together but they don't fit together. Numerous talents but no chemistry or continuity. Someone should raid this cupboard. Record: (6-14). End of Season Record: (16-50).

San Antonio - Grade B- - The Spurs have struggled on the road and the loss of Manu Ginobili certainly hurts. Look for the Spurs to still sneak into the playoffs before all is said and done though. Record: (12-9). End of Season Record: (38-28).

Utah Jazz - Grade B+ - The Jazz have been one of the surprises of the West so far. It seemed they wanted to move on from the undersized Paul Millsap in the offseason, but he ended up sticking around and it's a good thing. I don't see the Jazz keeping this up, but what do I know. Record: (11-7). End of Season Record:(34-32).

Top 5 Teams
5. Clippers
4. Nuggets
3. Bulls
2. Heat
1. Thunder
 
MVP Race 
Bron and Durant - Myself and Stru both took out minor futures tickets from Pro-Line. Lebron 4-1 and Durant 5-1. Who else is going to win this MVP? Those are you two horses in my opinion. I'll take straight up bets with those two vs. the field! Let's see... if the Thunder stay the league's best team, Durant gets it! (And he's right there even if they're just among the elite.) If the Heat win or are among the elite than Lebron gets it. Simple as that. Let's look at the contenders. Rose gets a bump down for having won last year (the general reluctance to award back to back winners if it's close), not to mention after having the leagues best record last season, it's difficult to see the Bulls making a 'leap' forward. Who else is out there? Dirk's numbers are way down, Aldridge is very good but not MVP good, Denver is a team effort. CP3 and Blake Griffin have too much help in LA. and Wade has been out for too much of the season already to overshadow what Lebron's done in Miami. That leaves only Lebron, Durant and Kobe. Yes , Kobe Bryant, my dark horse pick, the only guy that could ruin this. Fuck you Kobe.   

Rookie Ranks
5. Brandon Knight
4. Kemba Walker
3. MarShon Brooks
2. Ricky Rubio
1. Kyrie Irving

The year of the guard so far. 

That's that.

Shout out to my brother Dan, a quasi film aficionado, to whom I'd mentioned that I would be delighted to post his thoughts on 2011's films. That was a couple weeks back and here it is, a blog from brother Dan detailing his top films of 2011. Enjoy.
 
     So the nominations for the 84th Academy Awards have been released and I must say that I’m somewhat disappointed. The list was incredibly predictable and the fact that they have the opportunity to choose ten films for best picture and apparently feel that only nine even deserve a nod really bothers me. I can’t really complain too much as I have yet to see several of the films on the list, so who am I to judge? With all that said, I will now take this opportunity to make my own completely subjective list of films that are indeed the best films of the year. My list however will be based on my opinion alone and not that of a group of five thousand plus extremely qualified individuals representing all different branches of film production.  
     Lists like these are extremely subjective and I’m sure you will find that you and I have very different tastes in film. My list of favorite films, or the best films of the year let’s just say, will not be the same as yours and it certainly isn’t the same as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Some of the choices here are pretty mainstream and a few others are off the beaten track a bit. I like to watch a lot of film and the definition of what’s good in film is not always what the majority of people have seen. I hope this might give some people ideas for upcoming movie nights that they may not have otherwise had.
     Some of these films told wonderfully powerful stories, some were visually stunning, while others revealed mesmerizing individual performances, which held me in the palm of their hand. All of these films in one way or another had me feeling emotional. I don’t want to just sit through a film I want to feel something and each of the films did just that in some way.
     Unfortunately there were a few films that I was unable to see. I spent the last two weeks watching a lot of films but some I just couldn’t get my hands on. I’m sure Fassbender’s performance in Shame was fantastic and I’m a fan of Carey Mulligan, but I couldn’t seem to find a copy of the film anywhere and it’s not playing here in Seoul. I also have yet to see Hugo, which I hear is wonderful. I really hope to see it in 3D as many people seem to have it up there as the best use of 3D in film to date. I won’t be buying myself a new television with those capabilities anytime soon so hopefully it plays here in Korea in the next few months. Oh and apparently I have to see The Artist, at least that’s what I’ve heard.
With all that said let’s begin.

10. King of Devils Island
     I saw this film at a screening at The Busan International Film Festival. There were about 5 films I went with the intention of seeing, none of which I was able to get tickets to. This was picked at random (the title sounded cool) and it blew me away. Visually it’s beautiful, depicting the desolate landscape surrounding a juvenile detention center on an island in Norway. The beauty in the cinematography was that it captured perfectly the lack of hope for almost everyone on that island. Fantastic performances from Stellan Skarsgard (whom you may recognize) as well as Benjamin Helstad. Keep in mind that this is a Norwegian film so you’ll be reading subtitles. However if you can read, and I take it you can, this is definitely worth checking out.

9. 50/50
     This movie is a perfect example of a film that takes you through the complete gamut of human emotions while never feeling like it’s lost its direction. It moves gracefully through all of these emotions and gives a very real depiction of life and the challenges that come along to many. Almost everyone has been affected by cancer in some way or another and this film takes a good look through that window. The film doesn’t wallow in despair but finds hope and laughter, all while never really forgetting the reality that these characters are facing. Seth Rogen does an excellent job playing the friend and Joseph Gordon-Levitt putts together a fantastic performance. I must say though that Anjelica Huston stole almost all the scenes she was in. I liked this one a lot.

8. Hesher
     And here’s another Joseph Gordon-Levitt film, what can I say I’m a fan. This had a great cast. I know it was a low budget indie flick but with JGL, Natalie Portman and Dwight Shrute, I’m surprised more people don’t know about this one. The film centers around the life of a young boy whose mother has just passed away. His father played by Rain Wilson isn’t coping well or at all, so along comes Hesher to provide guidance and support. JGL does a great job playing Hesher, a wild homeless deviant who inadvertently becomes the force that brings this family back from the depths. Along with a great supporting role by Portman and this movie is a must see.

7. Moneyball 
     Moneyball is a great film with a great cast. Brad Pitt did a wonderful job playing Billy Beane. I don’t know that it was an Oscar worthy performance but very well done nonetheless. To me, Phillip Seymore Hoffman stole most of the scenes playing the part of Art Howe the manager of the A’s. This is a movie I enjoyed thoroughly do to my love of sports and the fact that I love a good underdog story. Although I loved the movie it certainly might not be for everyone, so If you’re not a sports fan and don’t enjoy a slower paced drama, you probably won’t enjoy it as much as I did. This is a true story and I’m sure when this was all happening lot’s of people were saying that it felt straight out of a movie, so why not make one out of it.

6.  Attack the Block
     This was a perfect example of what a small movie with a lot of heart can do. The film takes place in South London with the main characters being a group of delinquents and is basically an alien invasion film. The main characters at the outset are certainly not presented in a good light but I’m sure by the end you’ll be rooting for them full on. The dialogue between these kids is fantastic and it definitely takes a few minutes before you’re picking up everything they’re saying. It’s an alien invasion movie on the outside but I certainly got a lot more out of it. The main character Moses, played by John Boyega, comes of age a lot during one night and learns that as you get older your actions have very real consequences, even if in this movie they are far from reality.

5. Warrior
     This will be my second sports film on this list, however the two films are worlds apart. This film had some major flaws for me and yet I was still drawn in fully to the story. I didn’t think I was going to be able to get past the idea of having a MMA tournament over a weekend. The idea of having two men beat the shit out of one another then have the winner get back in the octagon and fight another guy the next day seemed foolish, yet it wasn’t long before I was suspending my belief and found myself fully invested in the film. For me, this was all about the reconciliation of two brothers and their father and how as men we often don’t want to actually talk about anything and just let our problems boil over. The action in this film was awesome, I thought the fights were great and Nick Nolte, Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton showed off some great performances. Keep an eye on Tom Hardy, I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of him in the future, I’m really looking forward to seeing him as Bane in the summers finale to the Dark Knight trilogy. 

4. Beginners
     I thoroughly enjoyed this film.  The scene in which Ewan McGregor and Melanie Laurent met at the costume party is one of my favorite scenes of the year.  Christopher Plummer was fantastic in this movie and was a joy to watch. You definitely walk away from this movie appreciating your parents for all the faults they may have. It reminds you that your parents are people who have lives totally separate from you, though for half your life you thought you were and should be the center of their universe. Also Melanie Laurent reminded me just how much I love that French accent.

3. Tyrannosaur
Let me start by saying this movie is not for everyone. It hits hard in several different ways but is only as good as it is because it does just that. The film tells the story of Joseph, an alcoholic with a terrible temper that almost always leads to violence, and Hannah, a devout Christian living what, from the outside, looks to be a good life. Their lives collide as the story progresses and they become friends. This movie is well acted and in my opinion Olivia Colman was snubbed to not get a nomination for her role. I’m a big fan of Paddy Considine for his acting and now with his first feature I’m an even bigger fan of the man. I hope we see more from him.

2. Martha Marcy May Marlene
     In my opinion this movie right here holds the best female acting performance by far in any film this year. You’d probably be surprised to find out that this performance comes from a member of the Olsen family, nope, not one of the twins but their younger sister Elizabeth Olsen. She dominates almost every scene and even holds serve with John Hawkes.  The scene with these two in the bathroom is one of the most intense, dramatic, and creepiest of the year. The film itself is about a girl right after she escapes from a cult in the Catskill Mountains. She is still extremely distraught when her sister picks her up off the highway. The rest of the film then moves back and forth between flashbacks and her struggles dealing with everything that comes from such an ordeal. There was only one aspect of this film that I didn’t like, which is probably the only reason it isn’t number one for me, but I won’t say what that is. If you’ve seen it you could probably guess. Check this movie out though, John Hawkes’ rendition of Marcy’s Song alone is worth the viewing.

1. Drive
     The first scene of this movie sets the tone so perfectly it is almost magic how the anti-car chase, the music and Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of the Driver come together. Everything is so meticulously planned and even in the moment when the plan looks to be going awry it comes back together, all while listening to the Lakers game, I loved it. Ryan Gosling was the best lead of the year without saying hardly anything. A friend said at times with the long lingering shots it felt like the camera was in love with Gosling. Ryan Gosling worship. Well the film was certainly stylized. I really enjoyed Carey Mulligan in this as well, I liked her in An Education as well as Never Let Me Go, a film that was not given enough credit last year, and I felt she put out a fine performance again this year. She’s definitely on her way up, receiving fine reviews in Shame as well. The violence in the film reminded me of the violence in a Cronenberg film.It was harsh and dirty but quick and realistic, there wasn’t really a lot of it but you came away feeling like there was. Also this film had by far the best musical accompaniment of any other this year. Certainly an easy pick for me, as the best film of the year.   

      A few others that just missed this list include Mission Impossible Ghost  Protocol, My Idiot Brother, Submarine, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Melancholia. Definitely great movies that I just didn’t have room for. Hope your able to check some of these out, if you’ve got any sense you’ll love’em.

Thanks very much to Dan for that! I've obviously got lots of catching up to do on the films of '11.

Alright it's been quite some time since I did a Hip Hop Top 20, mostly because I did the top 100 countdown most recently. In light of that, there has been some major changes in my list as many newer songs have caught my attention the past several weeks, though you'll still find a couple bangers from the last list that are still getting plenty of play around here. Here's the best of what's recent in hip hop! (IMO) Enjoy.

Hip Hop 2.0
Tw
20.   Popped Off - T.I. Ft. Dr. Dre


19.    Contemporary Man - Action Bronson

 18.    Go Girl - Yo Gotti Feat. Big K.R.I.T. Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean


17.    5 on the Kush - B.O.B. Ft. Big K.R.I.T., Bun B


16.    Time Of Your Life - Kid Ink

 
15.    We Buy Gold - 8 Ball and MJG Feat. Big K.R.I.T.


14.    Play The Guitar - B.O.B. Feat Andre 3000


13.    Fly Together (Remix) - Red Cafe Feat. Trey Songz, Wale, J. Cole


12.    Hands on the Wheel - Schoolboy Q Feat. ASAP Rocky

11.     Rack City Remix - Tyga Feat. Young Jeezy, Wale, Meek Mill, Fabolous and T.I.

10.    Make My - The Roots Ft. Big K.R.I.T.


09.    Intro/ Interlude/ Outro - Lil Wayne Ft. Tech N9ne, Andre 3000, Bun B, Nas, Shyne and Busta Rhymes.


08.    Do It - KRS-One


 
07.    Midwest Meltdown - T.T. Feat. Tech N9ne and Twista


06.    I Do - Young Jeezy Ft. Jay-Z, Andre 3000


05.    Nothing To Lose - K'naan Feat. Nas



04.    Who Do I Catch? - Tech N9ne


03.    Triple Beam Dreams -Rick Ross Ft. Nas


02.    American Terrorist III - Lupe Fiasco


01.    Money On The Floor - Big K.R.I.T.


And that's it folks. Sorry about the lack of visual imagery, I just wanted to finally get this published. So here it is. I likely won't get a chance to write again before Sunday's big game so you can put me down for the Giants and the OVER. Bodes well for the Pats if my recent track record means anything. Have a great February!

Friday, 20 January 2012

Reflections and Resolutions - Goodbye 2011. Hello 2012 - Part IB - Goodbye 2011. Top 100 Hip Hop Tracks of 2011. Hello 2012. 12 Resolutions for 2012.

I had my doubts, but here it finally is - Part I B of Reflections - Goodbye 2011 - 2011 Hip Hop Top 2.0         ( Better make that 10.0!)

Hope you enjoyed Part I A's collection of interesting films, albums and people. Next I set out to complete a  Hip Hop 2.0 for all of 2011. Obviously I found the task of narrowing the number down to 20, I ended up with a top 100, so here's a pretty comprehensive list of solid songs that popped up in the hip hop world from 2011. So without further ado here is my list of the best 100 Hip Hop songs released in the 2011 calender. It's not Billboard, or YouTube, just my own opinion. Furthermore, I didn't hear every song made in 2011, so save it, and I know Rack City is the bomb.

The Top 100 Songs of 2011!

100. When I'm Gone - Wiz Khalifa
99. Face Off - Reks Feat. Termanology
98. Never Stop Loving You - 9th Wonder Feat. Terrance Martin, Talib Kweli
97. Welcome To the Jungle - Jay Z and Kanye West
96. Focused - Wale Feat. Kid Cudi
95. Boom, Bap - B.O.B. Feat. T.I., Mos Def
94. Reppin' 4 Flint - Jon Connor
93. The Invitation - Saigon Feat. Q-Tip, Fatman Scoop
92. Ain't No Future 2011 - Jon Connor


91. Loud Noises - Eminem and Royce 5'9" Feat. Slaughterhouse
90. How High - J. Cole
89. Legendary - Wale
88. 3D - Game Feat. David Banner
87. Underground King - Drake
86. The OtherSide - The Roots Feat. Bilal Oliver, Greg Porn


85. Pot Of Gold - Game Feat. Chris Brown
84. The Real Her - Drake Feat. Lil Wayne, Andre 3000
83. Strange Clouds - B.O.B. Feat :Lil Wayne
82. Need Some Bad - Slick Rick
81. What Goes Around - Big Sean
80. Sookie Now - Big K.R.I.T. Feat. David Banner
79. She Will - Lil Wayne Feat. Drake
78. Enemies - Saigon
77. Friends - Saigon


76. I Love Music - Tech N9ne Feat. Kendrick Lamar, Oobergeek
75. Over My Dead Body - Drake
74. F5: Furiously Dangerous - Ludacris Feat. Slaughterhouse
73. Who Gon Stop Me - Jay Z and Kanye West
72. Fuck Your Ethnicity - Kendrick Lamar
71. See It To Believe it - J. Cole
70. On My Level - Wiz Whalifa Feat. Too Short
69. Country Shit (Remix) - Big K.R.I.T. Feat. Ludacris, Bun B


68. No Church In The Wild - Jay Z and Kanye West Feat. Frank Ocean
67. Come On Baby - Saigon Feat. Swizz Beats, Jay Z
66. Band Practice - 9th Wonder Feat. Phonte, Median
65. Words I Never Said - Lupe Fiasco Feat. Skylar Grey
64. Worldwide Choppers - Tech N9ne Feat. Ceza, J.L. B.Hood, Uso, Yelawolf, Twista, Busta Rhymes,  Twisted Insane, D-Loc


63. Let's Roll - Yelawolf Feat. Kid Rock
62. Make Some Noise - Beastie Boys
61. Toast To the Dead - Immortal Technique
60. Fast Lane - Eminem and Royce 5'9"
59. Success Is My Cologne - Currency
58. Pimps (Remix) - Big K.R.I.T. Feat. 2Chainz, Bun B


57. Bundle Up - The Cool Kids
56. I'm On One - Rick Ross Feat. Drake, Lil Wayne
55. Ballin' - Young Jeezy Feat. Lil Wayne
54. Work Out - J. Cole
53. DC or Nothing - Wale
52. Martians Vs. Goblins - Game Feat. Lil Wayne, Tyler the Creator
51. Enjoy - 9th Wonder Feat. Warren G, Murs, Kendrick Lamar


The Top 50!!
50. Am I a Pyscho - Tech N9ne Feat. B.O.B. - Tech N9ne experiences a long overdue epiphany!
49. The Show Goes On - Lupe Fiasco - Again, hardly a track from 2011, despite it's inclusion on Lasers. I still dig the Modest Mouse back riff none the less.
48. Ric Flair - Killer Mike - The song is great, the Ric Flair soundbites are even better!
47. Marvin Gaye and Chardonnay - Big Sean Feat. Kanye West - "The fuckin anthem, get it, the fuckin anthem!"
46. He's a Mental Giant - Tech N9ne - Tech N9ne killing the beat with his incomparble word play, which he is well aware of, being the mental giant he is.


45. Makin Dough - Obie Trice -Obie's got a new album in 2012, good to hear his gravelly flow again on this one.
44. Phone Numbers - Big Sean, Trae the Truth - My pay cheques be looking like phone numbers! I wish.
43. Murder To Excellence - Jay Z and Kanye West - I found Watch the Throne to be a series of hits and misses, this one hits!
42. My Sub - Big K.R.I.T. - Filling my Outkast void with the Southern banger.
41. Capcom - Kid Cudi - Ya'll know I love some Cudi.
40. Molasses - Raekwon Feat. Rick Ross, Ghostface Killah - As smooth and syrupy as the title would suggest.


39. Ghetto Dreams - Common Feat. Nas - Two originals.
38. Wake Up - Wiz Khalifa - Laid back Wiz flow. Run my town, like the mayor. Run my town, bitch, I'm like the mayor. Brilliant.
37. I Do It - Big Sean - Witty punchlines, Big Sean at his #hashtagging best.
36. Cole World - J. Cole - J. Cole brings lyrics to compete with the beat as he goes in on this offering.


35. The Noose - Tech N9ne Feat. Mayday - Tech N9ne's apocalyptic tale of the shortcomings that doom us.
34. Sweet - Common - One of the singles that drove Common's 2011 revival.
33. One Time - The Roots Feat. Phonte, Dice Raw - More great music from The Roots band with a little help from Dice Raw and Little Brother alum, Phonte.
32. Marvin's Room - Drake - Some more sing-songy rap shit from the man who does it best.
31. Memories Pt. II - Big Sean Feat. John Legend - My favourite track off of Finally Famous.



30. Lost Ones - J. Cole - Modern day take on Brenda's Got a Baby. 
29. That's Life 2 - Killer Mike - Killer Mike preach!
28. 6'7' - Lil Wayne Feat. Cory Gunz - Crazy beat.
27. Ready Set Go Pt II - Killer Mike Feat. T.I., Big Boi - Had to get Big Boi on this list!


26. Trust Issues - Drake - Drake's open-book-sing-songy flow. He, "doesn't trust these bitches"
25. Black and Yellow - Wiz Khalifa - Points taken for it can hardly be considered a 2011 release, the song that rode the Steelers to the Superbowl and Wiz Khalifa to the mainstream.
24. Roll Up - Wiz Khalifa - The freshest track off of a bit of disappointing and over commercialized major label debut from Wiz Khalifa.
23. M I Crooked Letter - Boo Rossini Ft. Big K.R.I.T. - I am an unapologetic Big K.R.I.T. fan for 2011, including this battle cry from the South.
22. Niggas In Paris - Jay-Z and Kanye West - This song continues to grow on me.
21. I Do - Young Jeezy Feat. Andre 3000, Jay Z - An all star cast, Jay Z in cruise control somewhat holds it back.

The Top 20 Songs of 2011!!

20. Greatest Story Never Told - Saigon - Best track on the long anticipated Saigon album that has been delayed for nearly a decade! Worth the wait!


19. Ambition - Wale Feat. Rick Ross, Meek Mill - Wale hits hard and makes you want to be somebody on this one!


18. 5 on the Kush - B.O.B. Feat. Big K.R.I.T., Bun B - A south modern take on Luniz's  5 on It.


17. Otis - Jay Z and Kanye West - Equivalent of a Hollywood blockbuster. They both bring it.


16. HiiPower - Kendrick Lamar - Voted HipHop DX's verse of the year.


15. All Black Everything - Lupe Fiasco - One of the only tracks on Lasers that I can actually see Lupe standing behind in post production.


14. Disgusting - J. Cole - All about the beat on this one.


13. 25th Hour - Reks - Dope lyrics over a Premo beat, doesn't get much better than this.

  
12. Intro/Interlude/Outro - Lil Wayne Feat. Tech N9ne, Andre 3000, Bun B, Nas, Shyne and Busta Rhymes - By far the best thing to come out of the Lil Wayne's Carter IV.


11. Dreams Money Can Buy - Drake - Drake is a worldwide superstar, here are all the dreams his new found wealth can help him purchase.


10. Reagan Era - Kendrick Lamar - Representin' the West Coast, Lamar brings a social consciousness to the West Coast gang mentality that hasn't been seen since the likes of Ice Cube nearly 15 years ago.


09. Headlines - Drake - Drake proves he's still a force to be reckon'd with. Punchline after punchline.


08. American Rapstar - Big K.R.I.T. - The making of a Rapstar right before our eyes.


07. American Terrorist - Lupe Fiasco - It might just be the Nighcall beat, but I can't get enough of this, I wish Lasers had been better, but this will do.


06. Who Do I Catch Now - Tech N9ne - What started out as a BET awards cypher, tells the story of his meteoric rise to fame in 2011, where does Tech go from here?

 
05. Nasty - Nas - Nas doing Nas, owning a track and keeping his name in your mouths.


04. Red Nation - Game Feat. Lil Wayne - Love the Zombie nation background beat, a true anthem for 2011.


03. Dreamin' - Big K.R.I.T.- I've been feeling K.R.I.T. since 2011 began. 2011 had to be a dream come true for the Mississippi native,who blew up both on the mic and behind the boards.


02. Make My -The Roots Feat. Big K.R.I.T. Dice Raw - Best song on what is arguably the best album of the year.


01. The Return of Simba - J. Cole - My song of the year, didn't even make an album. Still my song of the year.


And there you have it ladies and gents, the best hip hop singles of 2011. Hope you enjoyed it!

Part II - Resolutions - Hello 2012 

Well isn't this a bit of a self serving blog entry. "I resolve to..." How does one even begin to define their resolutions. How can I improve both myself and my quality of life in 2012 is what it comes down to for me. In retrospect, 2011 goes down as 'just fair' in my books. I can't think of any examples of any life changing events in my world. No big moves, changes, or milestones, No babies (phew!), rings, or career defining moves. Just day to day monotony, supply teaching and serving. The life of a rock in the passing stream of life. That's not meant to be a complaint of 2011, just an observation. More than an observation, it's an admission of that feeling of 'want' that grows inside of us. (Kind of like 3rd Eye Blind "Semi-Charmed Life", but I'm not quite sure this is what they were talking about.) That feeling that you're left wanting more for both yourself and those around you, that's where I start with my resolutions for 2012. How can I appease this feeling of want to the point where I can look back and call 2012 a defining year in becoming the person and having the life I envision for myself. And is that even realistic? Realistic? No. Worth a shot. You bet. I think the whole, shoot for the moon - end up in the stars is an fitting analogy. Here are my self serving resolutions for 2012 for your scoffing pleasure.

12. Decisions, Decisions - That's what it all comes down to isn't it, the choices we make. In 2012 I hope to make all the right decisions, all of the time. Unfortunately, no matter how much resolve I approach  this with, I will not achieve this lofty standard. What I can count on is that I'll take the time to make the best decision I can and then I'll leave it alone. Enough with the over analyzing, replaying out what decisions I could have made differently. In 2012 I will make well thought out choices and stand behind my decisions as they determine who I am and continue to become. Furthermore, occasionally I'll screw up as well. (Really took a leap here, I know)

11. Challenge = Growth - Without challenging ourselves in new situations, environments and opportunities we're limiting our ability to grow, change and improve. Interestingly, the chinese word for crisis includes the symbols for both danger and opportunity. Unfortunately most opportunities tend to be disguised as work and that tends to skew our vision at times. Very much a situation where the more you risk (leaving your comfort zone) the greater your possibility for reward. I resolve to seek out new challenges for the opportunities and learning experiences they present.


10. Listamania - There's a saying that goes, fail to prepare, prepare to fail ...or something like that. For me organization is the key to getting things done. If you've read my blogs you know I like lists, so this resolution is seemingly a match made in heaven. An amelioration of tasks and goals. I resolve to become a master of the list; setting 'to do' lists on a daily, weekly, and monthly scale. Checking off even the most mundane of tasks for that feeling of accomplishment that only completing my laundry, groceries and banking all in one trip can deliver.

09. Chef Budd - Next time someone approaches me and says "What's cooking?" ( Followed by a pleasant "good looking", I hope.) I hope to respond with, something edible, anything edible. If there's one thing I am guilty of, it's being a lazy cook. It's not that I can't cook, it's just easier and more convenient to eat out or order in, which a) costs far too much on the day to day b) rarely results in healthy food choices. That said, an improvement here could serve to fatten up my wallet, while at the same time trim down my waist line. I resolve to eat out a maximum of 2 times a week. 
 
08. The Pen(is) Mightier - I'm a better person when I'm reading, if I have time to read it's a sign that life is moving at a good speed for me. Reading is a symbol of relaxation and control. When I'm reading and writing on a consistent basis I have time and patience to get things done at a pace that's thoroughly enjoyable. I resolve to read at least a book a month, and write 2 entries a month, as well as hopefully something more substantial moving forward.

07. Have the Courage To Think Outside The Box - 2012 shall not be a year of, "but I've always done it this way....". In 2012 I resolve to have the courage to think outside the box; to look at the way I, and those around me, do things and ask, "Is that the best way...?" A lot of the time we can fall into the rut or safety net of continually and habitually doing things the same way over and over. Routine can be a good thing but stagnation, not so much. Maybe the best way hasn't been thought of yet, maybe I'd do well at something I've never considered for myself before. In 2012, I will not overlook the endless possibilities that exist beyond my conscious.

06. Lay Waste to the Waist, and Other Forms of Waste - I'm a criminal wastophile. Time, money, food, opportunities, you name em, I waste em. My goal for 2012 is to try and eliminate some of the waste from my life, including this waist (not entirely, obviously). Clearly, some of these resolutions overlap, and I've already pleaded guilty to wasting ends on eating out at an extravagant pace. I waste loads of time on facebook, twitter, and surfing the net, completing mindless, thankless, and product-less tasks. I've got to do a better job of catching myself in the act and improving upon this. Waste. Get rid of it.  

05. Be Healthier - Sleep more, eat healthier, exercise daily. Shouldn't that continually be a goal we strive towards. When I reflect on the times when I feel crummy on a day to day, week to week basis, the usual suspects tend to always be the culprits, lack of sleep, a bunch of trash in my diet, general malaise. And they domino as well, when you're not sleeping well, it's more likely that you'll be too tired to complete any physical activity, let alone the activity it'll take to fire up the stove and make something worthwhile to eat. Did I say you'll...I meant I'll. I resolve to sprinkle some healthier habits into my daily routine, maybe you should too?

04. Seek and Destroy - For most of this list the resolution involves, doing something new or the addition of something. Addition by addition. Simple. But in some cases what we have is addition by subtraction. Like a computer, we function best when we're not plagued by virus, spyware and clutter. In our daily lives the elimination of some of these hindrances can be just as beneficial as the addition of any new practices or habits. What we destroy shows our character as much as the things we build. I will continue to explore and identify my weaknesses, flaws, and poor habits and work towards their destruction. 

03. Discipline - To me discipline is the ability to overlook your short term wants and desires in favour of doing what it takes to pursue your long term goals. You want both, but your over arching vision has to take priority in these situations. You want a fit bod just in time for summer, but you also want a cheeseburger because you're craving it and they're admittedly a known delicacy. In this case your desire for a burger contradicts your goal of a fit bod. Show discipline. Do not bet on a Bears quarterback. Show Discipline. This is especially important when seeking change, eventually the hope is that long term goals and short terms wants and desires are in sync, until then, show discipline.     

02. Balance -  A big thing for me is maintaining balance, I can be very good in ebbs and flows. As evidenced by November's cleanse followed by December's binge. While, I can maintain the level of discipline necessary for wholesale change over the course of a month, the reality is I wasn't ready to make the full scale lifestyle change. I'll binge for one month on deep frieds, pumphouse beers, and donairs, only to follow up with a month of chin ups, frequent jogs and generally healthy eating. Binge, purge, repeat. I've always been an extremist in that sense, O-Town, all or nothing. I resolve to strike a balance. If I am able to find that fine balance; coupled with an infusion of positive thought  and action, destroy some bad habits, there's no reason 2012 can't be a remarkably productive 12 months.

1. Robotic Cyborg - Lastly, I would hope that having stayed in line on all of these resolutions, my end result is that I will have morphed into some type of machination by years end. It will take a well programmed set of algorithms and software to keep me away from some of the vices that could prove fatal to this idyllic 2012. Best to not let any of my superficial desires and emotions have me seeing short sighted in such a scenario as this. This is mostly meant to be tongue in cheek, as some would suggest I have as good a chance of becoming part man - part machine as I have of carrying out these resos. A simple reminder to dream realistically because I think it's important to remember that Rome wasn't built in a day and this life is entirely a work in progress. I am not a robot, I am human - an I can and will make mistakes. I'd love to sit down in 2013 and think 'job well done', but there will continue to be setbacks and obstacles, the thing to remember is to remain realistic in dealing with setbacks. If I can do that and not let any setbacks, which can and will occur, deter my spirit of progress then I have no doubt 2012 will keep me smiling all year long. I resolve to carry these resolutions out with cold, robot-like precision. 


Happy 2012 Folks!


Peace.