Wu-Tang Clan – Wu-Tang Demo Tape (Rare)

Here is something a little special, and something that has been in my iTunes for a good few years now, but still seems to be a rare piece of Hip-Hop history (although it can be found on a few sites if you know where to look). Back in 1991 the Clan was just another Hip-Hop crew that were doing the rounds with this demo tape before releasing their debut album, which went on to be an all-time classic. Back then they were a 5-piece group, which consisted of RZA, Ghostface, ODB, Inspectah Deck and Raekwon. The lyrical prowess of the Wu was clear for all to see almost two decades ago though, and RZA was streets ahead of any producer in the game. Unfortunately the tape is extremely poor quality, but it's definitely worth downloading - treat it more as a collectors item. The image above is the original Wu-Tang logo, designed by Allah Mathematics - it’s not known for sure whether or not it was intended to be the tape’s cover art, but it’s quite possible. This demo tape was released on cassette only, on the unofficial tip, and has been circulating the Hip-Hop scene for quite some years now. Below is the ORIGINAL Bring The Ruckus - download the tape HERE.

Wretch 32 & Emeli Sandé - Underdog Law

On Friday Wretch 32 and Emeli Sandé hooked up for a studio session - two days later, after charting at 1 & 2 respectively, they have let go of this beautiful piano driven ballad which perfectly portrays both of their feelings about where they have come from to get to where they are right now. Wretch's album is currently sitting at number 5 on iTunes and Emeli sold out the London date of her forthcoming UK tour within seconds earlier today. Download your copy for free HERE.

Wretch 32 - Forgiveness (Feat. Etta Bond) x Hush Little Baby (Feat. Ed Sheeran)

Now that it is released, here are my two favourite tracks (in full) from Wretch 32's new album, Black & White. Read my review HERE and get your copy HERE. Also, catch an exclusive performance that Wretch & Daley did for SoulCultureTV HERE.

Reebok Classics Presents: NaS

Reebok Classics and Rock The Bells bring you a new series called Classic Albums by Classic Artists to run alongside the lead up to one of the most exciting festival line-ups of all-time. The first episode features NaS who talks about his debut album Illmatic, who many believe to be the classic of all classics.

Master Shortie - Gravity (Feat. Ed Sheeran)

Master Shortie's new single, which features the vocals of Ed Sheeran on the hook/chorus. Massive tune that I expect to do very well when it's released. Shout out to Mistajam, again.

Slabofmisuse - Makes Me Smile x Silent Spring

Here are two of my favourite tracks from the fifth installament of Cold Busted's incredible Street Bangerz series, which has now been taken over by Slabofmisuse. Gramatik was the originator and the man behind the exceptional first three, but after leaving the label Krystian Shek took the reigns and smashed number four - for me though, this effort from the South African beat maker is just as good, if not better than the aforementioned fourth installement. Funky basslines, classic and obscure samples which make for 56 minutes of music that you just can't help but nod your head to. 2011 has been an amazing year for this label thus far, and you can expect a few more top quality releases before we're done. October 25th is the release date.

J Dilla - Rare Live DJ Set from 2003

Spotted over @Will Make Beats For Food, here is a classic DJ set from the one and only J Dilla. I would do anything to go back in time and be there for this - track selection is not even funny. Download below.

Thurz - Riot (Feat. Black Thought)

After a succession of hits as one half of U-N-I, Thurz has decided that it's time to go solo and release his debut LP, L.A. Riot. Here is my favourite track from the album, which is produced by DJ Khalil and features the legendary Roots MC Black Thought. The album goes hard, so do yourself a favour and purchase one of the best Hip-Hop releases of 2011 HERE. Check what Thurz has to say about the track below and read the entire track-by-track preview HERE:

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Jesse Futerman - Driva'man

Been a massive fan of Jesse Futerman ever since Gilles Peterson introduced me to him a few months ago, so it made me very happy to see that the 19-year old Canadian producer has blessed us with a new release entitled The Super Basement EP. The EP is a refined collection of 6 beautifully crafted and constructed tracks, delving deep through strings and brass to deliver a haunting, yet eloquently soulful experience. Genuinely one of the most exciting young men in music. You would be stupid to not get your FREE download.

Sonnyjim - Grindin (Feat. Prime & Micall Parknsun) (Jehst Remix)

Hailing from Birmingham, Sonnyjim is a Jump Off and End Of The Weak veteran who has demonstrated relentless talent throughout the country and captivated crowds alongside the likes of The Streets and Foreign Beggars. This is my favourite track from his new album, which is entirely comprised of original material, and features a plethora of the country's most talented emcees including Micall Parknsun, Foreign Beggars & Jehst. You don't hear rhymes and production like this very often, so it's refreshing to be blessed with a release such as The Psychonaut. Get your copy HERE.