Balance & The Traveling Sound - Hey Lady

After bringing you their Dilla cover the other day, here is my favourite track from Balance & The Traveling Sound's new EP, Departure, which you download for free HERE! Their cover of Won't Do was amazing, but the fact that they are producing their own material (of this quality) excites more than anything. They have a ridiculous amount of talent and the effortless fusion of Hip-Hop, Jazz, Soul & Funk without a doubt makes these guys one of my favourite discoveries of 2011.

Balance & The Traveling Sound - Won't Do (J Dilla Cover)

WOW! Here is a live performance of a stunning Dilla cover from Balance & The Traveling Sound, which is going to be on their upcoming Departure EP (out tomorrow). Always worries me when people take on one of my favourite Dilla joints, but this accumulation of Soul and Jazz, which is reminiscent of the Motown era with a raw Hip-Hop edge to it, is nothing short of mind-blowing. One of the best tributes I've ever seen to my hero and the best to ever do it. Currently on my 5th listen, and still going. More info HERE.

Mark de Clive-Lowe - The Why (Feat. Nia Andrews)

Here is the lead single from Mark de Clive-Lowe's upcoming album, RENEGADES, which features vocals from the beautiful Nia Andrews and strings from the legendary composer/producer Miguel Atwood-Ferguson. You can cop the single on October 3rd, on an EP which includes a Maddslinky remix and a MdCL club mix. This guy is one of my favourite finds of 2011.

Ben Westbeech - Same Thing

My favourite track from Ben Westbeech's sophmore album There's More To Life Than This, which was released today on Strictly Rhythm. Produced by Chocolate Puma, this piece of funky/soulful House is just a sample of what you can come to expect from one of the albums of the year. Buy HERE and read my review HERE.

Lana Del Rey - Blue Jeans

Lana Del Rey is something else - she has the most incredible videos, unique lyrics, beautiful/haunting vocals and is absolutely stunning. A breath of fresh air, and the description of her being a 'gangsta Nancy Sinatra' couldn't be any more accurate. So much love for this.

Eric Roberson - Shake Her Hand x How Would I Feel (Feat. Jean Baylor)

Two of my favourite tracks from Eric Roberson's fourth studio album, Mister Nice Guy. Over the past 10 years this man has become one of the greatest R&B/Soul singers in the world and is now without doubt one of the most talented independent artists out there. Far too much R&B sounds the same these days, but Erro's soothing vocal tone, refreshing lyrics and smooth production makes for a truly incredible sound that you just can't help but fall in love with. Music Fan First was good, but Mister Nice Guy sees Mister Roberson back to his very best. Europeans can pick up their copy from iTunes NOW!

Happy Birthday: Michael Joseph Jackson

Happy birthday to my favourite artist of all-time, who would have been 53 today. Here is my favourite song of all-time from my favourite album of all-time. Rest in peace Michael, forever missed.

Josh Kumra - Oaktree (Stand Your Ground)

A lovely new piece from upcoming soul singer Josh Kumra, who features on the current number one UK single 'Don't Go' by Wretch 32. Josh has been on the road with Wretch for the past few months, but he's also been working on some of his own stuff for an upcoming EP and a debut album. You can download a copy for free HERE.

Lana Del Rey - Video Games

October 9th sees the debut single release from Lana Del Rey - Video Games/Blue Jeans. Describing herself as the “gangsta Nancy Sinatra” and her music as Hollywood Sadcore, Lana’s self made videos for the tracks have already caused a major stir on YouTube. Just as her D.I.Y video for 'Video Games' hit the 500,000 hits mark it was promptly banned. Bad girl Ms Del Rey has well and truly set the scene. For more information, check lanadelrey.com. Stunning.

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.