May 6th, 2009
Written by Aaron Matthews, Popscene is an attempt to re-examine records from the glory years of Britpop, specfically, ones that haven’t been analyzed to death by the North American press. If you’re looking for “Definitely Maybe,” the answer is “no.”
Super Furry Animals are either the best or worst starting point for discussing Britpop. Halilng from Cardiff, Wales, they spent quality time toiling in Welsh-language bands prior to forming SFA in 1993. Since then, they have released two Welsh language EPs, including 1995’s Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (In Space) and Moog Droog.
Following the release of those EPs, the band starting writing songs in English after being inspired by a tight-trousered, Tom Jones, bronze memorial (probably) and a desire to make their music more accessible (true). In 1995, after a gig in London–only their second, outside of Wales- Creation Records head, Alan McGee, signed SFA to his label, the one-time home of Primal Scream, Jesus and the Mary Chain, My Bloody Valentine, and Oasis.
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February 10th, 2009
When not shouting, “BROWNSVILLE, HOME OF THE BRAVE,” at high decibel levels, Aaron Matthews writes about hip hop, movies, and videogames at Canned Thinking. He also contributes to Metal Lungies, and Hip Hop Is Read.
There are two things you need to know about M.O.P.
1. M.O.P. are always angry.
2. During their brief tenure on Roc-A-Fella Records, the pair recorded an album entitled Kill Nigga Die Slo Bluckka Bluckka Bloaoow Blood Sweat Tears and We Out.
Let’s take a slide through the ill side of town.
1. Lil’ Fame, “Face Off 2k1″, Warriorz:
Niggaz ain’t feelin the Fame bitch? Stop dreamin’/I’m the shit that felt good comin’ out of my pop’s semen.
Why it’s Great: There is no possible scenario where Fame can imagine someone not feeling him. Accordingly, when a prenatal Jamal Grinnage was released from his father’s semen, his pops experienced pleasure. (Matthews)
Ranking:
2. Lil’ Fame, “1/2 & ½”, Gang Starr ft.M.O.P.
“Here comes the revolutionist/executionist/flip a triple 6 into three 9’s/cause a crucifix”
Why It’s Great: Fame gets his Noah Webster on and invents the word, “executionist.” Couplet gets bonus points for possibly veiled Crispus Attucks reference. Very veiled. Related note: why has there not been a rapper named Crispus Attacks? (Weiss)
Ranking:
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