Video of the Week: Higher by Theophilus London

"WHO'S THE MESSIAH? AINT READY FOR LIES"

Allow me to formally introduce you to the new face of hip hop. Indie culture has infiltrated the hip hop scene, and artists like Mr. Theophilus here are gradually stealing the spotlight from the Jim Jones gangsta types. This video, featured on YouTube, highlights the urban art of NYC, instead of gang violence. This song, whether you're feeling it or not, is spiritual, and not materialistic. This kid, in the nerdy skater spirit of Pharell, Lupe, and Kid Cudi, is changing the game. He may lack the street cred, but he's got something that today's hip hop is losing: purpose. And passion. And effort. Better get used to those dork-glasses, skinny jeans, and purple sweatshirts! You won't find many half-naked women around here.

*Didn't like the song? Play the track below... it epitomizes Theo's electro-dance style.


{Kanye warned us with "Love Lockdown" and "Heartless"... hip hop's going emo!}

Growing Love for Animal Collective

Animal Collective makes me so giddy inside. In a weird, messy kind of way. The new album, Merriweather Post Pavillion, released last month, is the perfect next-step in the art-rock band's experimental musical journey. Listening to the single "My Girls" feels kinda like falling through a portal... echoing, harmonic voices, scratchy background samples, and an enduring, rhythmic beat. The simple lyrics reveal that this psychedelic song is really just about craving a simple life with the people you care about most. Nothing too far out. It's blatantly trippy, yet startlingly familiar. This goes for the entire album. Animal lovers and curious newbies alike will enjoy.

*Click here to experience Animal Collective.*

Older favorites:
"Fireworks"
"Purple Bottle"