Perhaps one of the most anticipated hip-hop releases of the past year, "Death of a Pop Star" is a collaborative effort by Mississippi rapper, David Banner and renowned mega-producer, 9th Wonder. This album is billed as a quasi tribute to the late king of pop, Michael Jackson. The overall theme is less of a tribute and more of a "where do we go from here?" kind of feel. The lyrics discuss some of the major issues highlighted by the questions raised by Jackson's death, such as child molestation and drug abuse. Another topic of discussion is the concept of taking responsibility for maintaining Jackson's legacy. Banner's delivery is unorthodox, but wreaks of an intelligence and talent unique to him. He is no stranger to this more socially conscious style, having visited such issues on past solo projects. 9th Wonder is right in his element, having worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop; Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, and Destiny's Child, to name a few. This collaboration lives up to the critical expectations, which were high given the caliber of the artists involved. For these two prolific hip-hop artists, having little in common with the late pop star, in a musical sense, serves as a testament to the scope of Jackson's influence and his ability to transcend genres, which is a grand homage in itself.

RedletterDaydream

Past Works:
N/A

Track:
Diamonds On My Pinky

The Cool Kids are a pair of Chicago emcees that are being revered for their clever lyrical style and use of eclectic retro hip-hop production. After 2008's debut EP, "The Bake Sale", they've amassed a sort of cult following with their fresh approach and periodic release of mixtapes, the third and most recent of which being "Tacklebox". This duo's originality is promoted by the fact that they produce most of their own work and although they are signed to the Chocolate Industries label, they run their very own division called C.A.K.E.. It is largely due to disputes with their parent company, so to speak, that they've been struggling to release the highly anticipated LP, "When Fish Ride Bicycles". This particular mixtape is meant to tide fans over until they can work out the differences with the label. I wouldn't exactly say fans are 'settling' though. This release is a little more serious than the past two which were light hearted and comical at times. They do, however, maintain their laid back style. The production is tight and a little more modern. "When Fish Ride Bicycles" is expected to drop later this year.

RedletterDaydream

Past Works:
The Bake Sale EP
That's Stupid Mixtape
Gone Fishing Mixtape
Merry Christmas EP

Track:
Going Camping