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Let’s start your week off with something a little controversial. Be warned that some folks may find the video above a bit offensive, and it might not be something you’ll want to watch at work (the video is banned on YouTube, if that’s any indication). It’s a video from New York rapper NYOIL, and believe it or not…it’s up for a Grammy. Apparently there’s enough people in the music industry, specifically in hip-hop, who are weary of the current trends in mainstream rap and they got the song nominated. Naturally, there’s no chance in hell that it’s going to win, but it’s getting a message across and that might not be a bad thing? Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy my fair share of booty rap from time to time. But what might seem like harmless entertainment to me is obviously not sitting well with everyone who hears it. NYOIL’s definitely not trying to make friends in the diamond grill set.

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It’s been 3 long years that I’ve been waiting for a new Earlimart record, and that wait has finally paid off. Even though they’re based right here in Los Angeles, my inquiries as to the progress of this record have all been met with ambiguity and derision. Then suddenly…it’s done and it’s out! He’s a sneaky one, that Aaron Espinoza.

As I began listening to Mentor Tormentor for the first time, I started to feel like I was being suckered into something that felt really good. It’s got a deceptively laid-back, California vibe. But there’s an underlying darkness and a subdued intensity that bursts through the smooth surface of some songs when you least expect it. On the whole, the new record is a little sleepier than Treble & Tremble, but that doesn’t in any way mean it’s a dull or humdrum listen. Imagine waking in the morning for the first time with a new lover. You admire them as they still sleep, and you wonder to yourself…will this be over next week? Or will I spend the rest of my life with this person? Mentor Tormentor would be a good choice to be playing as you ponder this.

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There are rumors abounding on the Internet that My Bloody Valentine are going to reunite for Coachella 2008. I think I just peed in my pants a little bit.

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If you enjoy these tunes, tune into my radio show on kxlu 88.9fm 10a-2p every monday. we’re also streaming live at www.kxlu.com.