Can You Dig It?

Ever since blaxploitation films emerged in the early 1970s, they have proven to be the subject of much controversy and debate. Oftentimes, these movies were criticized for having an overabundance of sex and violence, and many of the characters were said to be stereotypical in a way that was damaging to the black community (pimps, pushers, prostitutes, etc.). Many prominent African American leaders and organizations eventually rallied against these films by forming the Coalition Against Blaxploitation, which was seemingly instrumental in bringing about the death of the genre. On the other side of the fence are those who believe that blaxploitation films were ultimately beneficial, in the sense that they allowed black actors to enjoy a greater presence in the cinematic industry. Either way, they remain an integral part of urban culture and the history of film. Currently, Bedazzled is offering free mp3s of the original radio advertisements for 28 different blaxploitation films. Cop these while you can: http://bedazzled.blogs.com/bedazzled/2005/07/cleopatra_jones.html. Visit Blaxploitation.com to learn more: http://www.blaxploitation.com/.

Right now also happens to be the time to satisfy your urge to zone out on some of Prince Paul's other-worldly creations. If you're in the mood for some old-school type shit, Looking For The Perfect Beat has one of his jams with Stetsasonic for you to download ("Sally"): http://boombap.net/theperfectbeat/. If you haven't heard anything from his new project, The Dix, you can cop "Here Come the Dix" at Razorblade Runner (link to the right). I love this shit---regressive kindergarten-level penis humor and all! If I attempted to school the uneducated on the fantastic legacy of Mr. Paul, I'd be here all night---and part of tomorrow, too. It would be much easier for both of us if you just visit his website: http://www.princepaulonline.com/.

Finally, Sickside Stories by Sick Symphonies just dropped on July 26th. Sick Jacken and DJ FM from Psycho Realm are probably the most recognizable members of the group---the other two cats (Cynic and Crow) are from the lesser-known Street Platoons. "Cointelpro" and "Reason To Fight" have a razor-sharp political edge, which miraculously saves these tracks from total mediocrity. You can download snippets of both joints here: http://www.myspace.com/sicksymphonies. The first single, "In This Lifetime", will likely be a bit more appealing to the masses. It has a completely different flavor---much more of a chillin' late- summer burner than the other two selections. You can cop the complete song at MP3 4U: http://www.mp34u.com/songCard.php?posting=2997.