You're Not Big

64699481, originally uploaded by chantelle.

And you're certainly not clever

When U Was In The Ends

1515, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Realising there is life outside of London, RWD takes a regular look to your ends. This month we caught up with Mike Skinner aka The Streets as he shows us around his home town, Birmingham... Words by Chantelle Fiddy

How would you sum up Birmingham?
It's changed a lot since I left there, but Birmingham is a very big city but culturally and creatively it's very small unfortunately. It's very stifling creatively actually, but one day i'd love to go back there. If you're going to be creative you need a business built around that because you've gotta pay the bills. When I say stifling I don't mean the character of the people, I mean the system. I believe it's getting better though.

Where did you grow up?
West Heath which is very south, very suburban, right by where they make Rover cars. It's a nice area but it's had its problems because of what's been going on with Rover - no ones got any jobs. It's been building up.

Do you support a football team?
Birmingham City, blue nose! Last time I saw them was against Manchester United but I'm all about music now.

When you were in Birmingham where did you hang?
The Custard Factory was pretty cool, also the Arcadium but I was just in, out and about the pubs.

Where in Birmingham were you making music?
Where I lived. I made my album in my mums house, I still live with my mum in London. We look after each other, she drives a Mercedes now.

Which school did you go to?
Westheath Junior and Bournville Senior. I did start college but I didn't get much out of it. I would read magazines and teach myself music.

Anything else to do in Birmingham?
Eat curries, they're the best curries in the world. Manchester is the true Curry Mile but I think the Birmingham ones are better. Khans was my spot, always a Chicken Korma, garlic naan, onion bhaji's.

Not peshwari?
Nah, my Jamaican mates used to order those but it was too sweet for me.

If you were going home for the weekend what would you do?
Probably the Arcadium, get some wine. It's built around a cinema with loads of bars and all the pretty girls go there. Broad Streets getting better if that's what you're into.

Is that where all the single people go then?
Yeah but It wasn't so good for me before I became an international pop star success. You'd be amazed, sell a few records and like 50 Cent said "It's like having a face transplant." We do have some fun on tour.

What's it's like when you perform in Birmingham?
The last gig I did there was a real success, it's really good to go back to where I used to hang around outside when I was a kid, then go in and large it up. They're rowdier than in London, I'm not saying there isn't a hardcore element in London, but in Birmingham it kicks off more, in a good way and a bad way. They tend to be younger too. In London it tends to be lots of industry people but in Birmingham you don't have that so people are age don't watch bands, they're busy bringing kids up.

Do you have a name for the next album yet?
No, it's always the last thing I do. I'll finish it, go through the tracks then decide. We did the same with The Mitchell's album. It's best to reflect cause it never comes out the way you often expect it to.

Who in the UK scene are you feeling at the moment?
DaVinChe, Mikey J, Sway, I quite like Bearman too but I've not heard a lot of him, Skepta too. I met Skepta in Camden with his mum recently, very random but I love it when I meet mums. My mum comes to all my gigs and screams it down.

Fave song at moment?
Coldplay - Swallow By The Sea

Sum up The Beats for us?
British rap music, honest.

A version of this article appeared in RWD Magazine. The Streets 'When You Wasn't Famous' is out now. Big up Ted and all @ The Beats. Check a forthcoming issue of i-D for the full crew wearing multi-coloured T-shirts in a shed.

UK Special

April_200650638700, originally uploaded by collinshattie.

Out now!

Still Buggin

'BASH' Thursday 30th March (And the last Thursday of every month) The Bug(Rephlex)/Loefah(Ital/DMZ) B2B ft Warrior Queen, Digital(Timeless/Metalheadz/Sativa) ft YT, Mala(Digital Mystikz), Seamus(Ital). Rephlex records ragga renegade The Bug has joined forces with Loefah from dubstep bass dons Digital Mystikz to promote a new night at Plastic People. 'Bash' will be aimed directly at dancehall partyseekers fiending for the latest bashment rhythms, classic ragga, heavyweight dub and
reggaefied hip hop (Nerds, trainspotters and the moody boys need not apply), as residents, guests and host MCs resolutely set out to ensure the bass will put a smile upon your face. Policy : Bashment, Dub, Ragga, Rockers, Roots, Lovers...
10-2AM £5/3 Conc.

When You Wasn't Famous

Professor Green's video for 'When You Wasn't Famous'. And it's not me but Ms Marsh making a cameo. The Streets single is in stores now featuring this remix along with a version from Doctor and Bearman.

Windows Hi

Windows Lo

Real Hi

Real Lo

Judgement Day

SOB March back-1, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Friday Warm Up

7Yeezie_Small, originally uploaded by chantelle.

If you're looking for somewhere to warm up before Straight Outta Bethnal tomorrow night, then here you have it. Calling all ghetto-freaks and zulu gestapo affiliates, get retarded! Touch your toes, 7 Year Glitch is back! Get wrecked on the liquor and get retarded to the hardest freshest sounds. Expect bootypop, acid, grime and ghetto-freak funk.
7 Year Glitch
Upstairs @ Old Blue Last
Great Eastern Road
7pm-late
********************
Tiny Prancer (Vice)
DJ Brain (NES)
Joe Muggs (MixMag)
Daniel Lee
+ Scare Dem MCs

Better Than Shopping?

smallmarchforfreeexpression, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Got the heads up from Quirky on the March For Free Expression... Anyone whose been in central London over the last six weeks might have noticed the fairly tedious demonstrations that have been going on in Trafalgar Square over those Danish cartoons about Muhammed. Yes, incredible though it might seem, some people are STILL going on about it. Anyway, there's a rally on Saturday that's been organised by a fairly broad coalition of humanist/secular/religious/free-speech and women's groups that needs support. Maybe we should back it to help waste MC's who only want to spit whatever shank lyrics all day and can't understand why they're not getting radio.

Honourable Mention

Going out to Neil Boorman on this one and anyone who's spending their disposable income (or lack of), in a bid to identify themselves. Like your style. http://bonfireofthebrands.blogspot.com/

Wasted Weekend

So you've got Straight Outta Bethnal on Friday and Saturdays looking like a busy one too. Keeping it grimey at 93 Feet East is WWWHUT! March sees the return of the E3 Tiger. WILEY's performance last year was as notable for the crowd's reverence as it was for the electric atmosphere, and along with DJ MAXIMUM of ROLL DEEP, this appearance promises to be even better. Anyone who's heard the new tracks Wiley's been dropping will know to expect serious energy. The main room is warmed up by Street Sounds magazine's DJ ULTRA, and the bar gives your party shoes a spring clean with ALEX CHASE (Genuine Recordings) and BEN SMITH (Best Kept Secret). Alternatively at The Legion in Old Street, CRACKIN SKULLZ aka Chevy & The Icemonster will be playing rap bangers, 80s soul classics and other "big things" to a crowd of rowdy nurses and people who've already been drinking heavily since lunchtime. They're playing from 9pm and the party doesn't stop until a drunk girl falls off a table (usually at 2am). That's me, me.

M.I.A.

slimi-d, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Slimzee is back. Well he was in Rhythm Division today at least along with pretty much every DJ in the scene (bar Cameo, what's up?). He didn't want to get in the group shot cause his game right now is fatherhood and giving up smoking (that's not a Tampax inbetween his lips). Where playing records is concerned, Slim's problem is he doesn't know what to play. I suggested an 80's set at Straight Outta Bethnal given it's the only thing that seemed to semi excite him (even Funky House wasn't cutting it). We'll see but Slim, dubplate Godfather, we still salute you. Take care of Jamie Ding for us too.

Wednesday Rockin'

no2changed0rn7ea, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Beam Me Up Scottie

barbie, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Fuck what everyone says about your sideburns Ashanti, don't ever wax the strayers. Even the choongest girls have got nostril fluff, trust. I'm an inspector. Just sing it to me, SING IT TO ME, SING IT TO ME NOW... repeat, repeat, before I shank you with my tweezers.

"Cause sometimes I can't sleep at night and this here it just don't seem right and sometimes I just wonder why I don't know, let my life go by"

And breathe.

Know yourself.

Recent Charts

Hot Zone: Rhythm Division's Best Sellers
1. Wiley Kat - Gangsterz (White)
2. Slew Dem - Grime Remix EP (White)
3. Wiley Kat - Eski Boy (White)
4. Footsie - Scars Remix (Dirtee Stank)
5. Pay As U Go - Know We Megamix (White)
6. Gods Gift - Mic Tribute 2006 (White)
7. Ruff Sqwad - No Bass EP (White)
8. Jammer - Murkle Man & Remix (White)
9. Iron Soul - Heavens Rejects EP (Sweet Beetz)
10. Rossi B & Luca feat. Nasty - In The Place/Run 4 Cover (A.R.M.Y)
Compiled by Sparkie @ Rhythm Division, 391 Roman Road, Bow E3. 020 8981 2203. All audio can be heard at www.rhythmdivision.co.uk

Guest Chart: Kode9
1. Pressure feat. Warrior Queen - 'Dem a Bomb We' (dub)
2. Kode9 & the Spaceape - 'Backwards' (Hyperdub)
3. Kode9 & the Spaceape - 'Spaceape' (Hyperdub)
4. Skream - 'Tapped' (Tempa)
5. Digital Mystikz - 'Molten' (dub)
6. Loefah - 'Mud' (dub)
7. Skream - '0800 dub' (Tempa)
8. Tubby - 'Tigerstyle' (dub)
9. D1 - 'Bamboo' (Tempa)
10. Kode9 - '9 Samurai' (Hyperdub)
Hear Kode9 on Rinse 100.3FM, 7-9pm every Thursday.www.kode9.com or www.hyperdub.net

Logan Sama's Top 10 Dubplates blowing up soon...
1. Scorcher - Chance Us
2. Jammer ft Dizzee Rascal & D Double E - Murkle Man Remix
3. Wiley - Gangsterz Remix
4. JME ft Wiley - Don't Chat To Me
5. Nasty Crew - Girls Love Nasty
6. Roadside Gs - Beef Is More Than A Song
7. Slew Dem ft Scorcher - Way Down The Road
8. Ghetto ft Scorcher - Skinny Sort Remix
9. Big H - Stand Back
10. Narstie & Solo - Brushman
Hear Logan Sama on Kiss100 FM, Monday's 11-1am. http://www.logansama.blogspot.com Enquiries: info@logansama.com

Introducing... Kode 9

Kode 9, originally uploaded by chantelle.

He might be the only Scotsman to have taken over pirate radio, but that aside he's got a lot more to show than a funky accent...

Who is Kode9?
Not sure, but he's been a resident at Fwd>> since it started and has been hosting the Fwd>> show on Rinse FM 100.3 for over 3 years (Thursdays 7-9pm). He runs the Hyperdub label to release vocal dubstep and grime influenced riddims.

You've been in the game 10 years now, tell us your history...
Dunno. Jungle drew Kode9 to London. When he got there he got sucked in. The rest is psychiatric history.

Highs and Lo's of your career?
Highs: playin in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 2005.
Los: the lush bass systems at Fwd and DMZ

Is the music you play different to what you make?
Kode9 likes to dj with alot more energy than he produces. His productions tend to be pretty laid back and full of dread.

Releases to date?
There has been a couple of tunes released on Tempa in the last few years, 'Fat Larry's Skank'/'Tales from the Basside' from around 2003 with Benny ill from Horsepower and 'Babylon' on the Tempa Allstars album. Also there were four tunes released on Rephlex's Grime 2 compilation in 2004, and a remix for a US label called Voltage back in 2004. On the Hyperdub label since 2004, there's been 'Sine of the Dub', 'Stalker','Spit' and 'Kingstown' with the vocalist the Spaceape. Hyperdub has also released music from Burial, Pressure and Warrior Queen.

Where do you get your influence from?
Core influence was early jungle in the way it brought every music i love together.

Difference between playing on radio and at a club?
I just do what i want on radio really. It can be pretty random, the things I'll mix up. But the core is about mixin the subbass of dubstep with the vocal energy of grime. When i play out, i'm looking to get people windin their waist.

Favourite club nights and why?
All time favourite was probably Metalheadz in 1995. Now it would be DMZ.

Top tunes in your world?
For the last few months i've been feelin most of the synthy tunes by Skream and Slew Dem's 'Joyride' - that tune is pure skank energy in the dance

How did you end up doing Dubstep Allstars?
Tempa asked me, and I said yes. I've released stuff on the label before, and alongside Hatcha, we're really the main dj's who've supported that label since it started around 5 years ago.

Describe your mix? Did you choose tracks?
For an Allstars mix, its relatively fast movin and diverse, knitting together unreleased bits of grime and dubstep with my vocalist Spaceape riding the first half and then I put him through the delay and reverb chambers in the second half. Yeah i chose the tunes. There was a couple of other bits I wanted but couldn't sort out in time when I did it late in 2005.

And who's Spaceape, never heard of him before?
He's the dubtronic poet i work with on the Hyperdub releases. He comes from another planet apparently.

Next release?
I've got a remix of 'Fat Larry's Skank' coming again on Tempa this year. We are about to drop the latest Hyperdub 10" 'Backward'/'9 Samurai' and the Dubstep Alllstars vol.3 mix compiliation on Tempa. Will probably release our own album after the summer.

Find Kode9 hangin out in the bassbin at Fwd or DMZ, Rinse Fm 100.3fm 7-9pm every Thursday.www.kode9.com or www.hyperdub.net

Snippets

Ms Dynamite's mixtape project with brother Akala, 'A Little Darker', is nearing completion. Two tracks will be hitting vinyl this month with the CD following in April. Having had a sneak preview, we can reveal it will feature the siblings teaming up with pretty much everyone who's anyone in the underground scene - from R&B pretty boy Nathan to northern mic slinger Wariko... The Industry DVD is in shops now and for anyone looking to work in the game and even those already making a mark, it's essential viewing. Interviews include Ras Kwame, Kano, Wiley, Westwood and Channel U's Ricky Bleu. There's must see guides to tastemaking, manufacturing, promotion, distribution, accountancy, A&R tips, with not a stone left unturned (why didn't they speak to our ed though, Kilbourn's been in the biz longer than i've been breathing). A programme of school tours and forums are planned for this year so no better time to jump start your career... Demon has followed in Kano & Ghetto footsteps with a mixtape release. Demons World is out now. Other new mixtapes are also due from Scorcher, Ruff Sqwad, Doller Da Du$tman, Tinchy Stryder and Bashy... Happy Birthday to DMZ who celebrated their 1st Birthday in Brixton on March 4th. Their event has gone from strength to strength and is fact becoming a grid lock affair. Described by Radio 1's Mary-Anne Hobbs as 'raving how it used to be', it's one to be tried and tested. Check www.dmzuk.com for more info and photo evidence... If you haven't seen Kidulthood yet, then where you been? The soundtrack is worth a note too, featuring some classics like Klashenkoff's 'Murdah', The Streets 'Stay Positive' and Root's Manuva 'Witness' alongside newer cuts from Wiley, Plan B, Akala and Sway.

Reigning Regardless

sovconcert, originally uploaded by chantelle.

She may have lost her favourite ring, but Lady Sovereign's still got a lot to be smiling about...
“My last ring slipped off my skinny finger like the rest of them, but when I find the time I’m getting my personalised Sovereign sorted.” Let’s hope that nineteen year old Lady Sovereign gets a day off soon then. While last year might have been busy, that's going to be nothing given what's already lined up for her in 2006. Just before Christmas, a deal with Island Universal already in the bag and hard at work on her debut album, Public Warning, something unprecedented happened. Following an impromptu performance in the USA, Jay-Z called her management. "It was, well it still is surreal. These are people I've grown up listening to after all" Ess-Oh-Vee told Touch over her favourite tipple, Pernod and lemonade. A meeting and freestyle for Jigga, Usher, LA Reid and the family tree later, she bagged a deal with the Def Jam imprint, La Familia where label mates now include Noreaga and hotly tipped rapper Aztek Escobar. Since then there's been the UK tour, accompanied by both a DJ and full band, followed by an even grander scale sell-out tour of the USA. And it’s not just paying punters who are showing their support for her unique lyrical prowess. Industry faces spotted in the rafters range from the Eski-boy Wiley and R&B princess Christina Milian to actor Jamie Kennedy and reggae great Damian Marley. Sovereigns ability to defy genre is no doubt what’s generating her ever-diverse fan base. “I don’t think the record labels can quite work me out, no one’s quite sure where I fit In but I can’t do anything about that. I can’t say to you ‘I’m hip hop’, ‘I’m grime’, ‘I’m alternative’ cause I’m just me and I’ve never been scared of what people might think of how I experiment with my music.” Confusion may be the case but her debut release on Chocolate Industries in the States, the Vertically Challenged EP (which includes a remix of Little Bit Of Shhh! by the Beastie Boys Ad Roc), is riding high in the college charts, selling out of it’s limited 25,000 vinyl run as well as earning her a two page spread in the prestigious Rolling Stone Magazine. Despite the now endless options open to her, musically speaking, Sovereign’s keen to stick to her original plans (although a record company source has confirmed there’s a date with The Neptunes in the diary). “I’m supposed to be working with Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park) but we’ll see what happens cause I’m trying not to put too much pressure on myself, I don’t want to freak out.” There’s already tracks delivered (for the album, now due out early Summer) from Basement Jaxx, Menta and right hand man Medasyn. Following the success of remixes such as ‘Hoodie’, she’s also keeping it real in the UK and getting back in the studio to work with Mizz Beats, Skepta and JME. “I used to get caught up in all that selling-out hype but my experiences are giving me a better understanding and I know how much work it takes to break through. I want other people to share these experiences that’s why wherever I go I’ll try take the scene through too. I’m waiting for JME to drop me off a load of mixtapes to hand out, rags, when I go away next.” And she’s not going to be leaving her hometown either. “Put it this way, I’ve thought about it but I don’t like the food in America. I’d miss things like cottage pie and cheese & onion pasties too much, plus I’m going to be an auntie soon and if anyone’s going to spoil that baby, it’s going to be me.”
Words/Pic: Chantelle Fiddy. A version of this article appeared in Touch Magazine 2006.

Ch-Ching XXXChange Remix

Random

"Adidas Hoodie Remix" feat. Mizz Beats, Skepta, JME, Ears, Jammer & Baby Blue


http://www.ladysovereign.com/ http://www.myspace.com/ladysovereign/ http://www.chocolateindustries.com/

No Whipple

Bondage Barbie, originally uploaded by Nick J Adams.

Have a good weekend

Tonight Only

radioclitbluelastflyer4web, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Radioclit will be joined by David Banner at the Old Blue Last, Shoreditch sides. Clash time.

24th March Is Coming

SOB March front-1, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Put it in your diary!

Next Straight Outta Bethnal

SOB March back-1, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Sway Friday

A6 flyer_back, originally uploaded by chantelle.

New Plan B Website

Brap, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Catch footage of him on the guitar, latest news, forum and the rest... www.time4planb.co.uk

Swiiiiiiiiiiiiiinggggggggg!

barbie_yankees, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Don't get rude, don't try take me for no girl.

Go Look In The Mirror, Bust That

I ain't lieing prick, I'm air-guitaring it (n.b adopt semi-Kano flow to prior sentence). Already sick of the name Grimdie, fuck Chico the leather clad fruit bat, it's Grindie time. Statik's latest venture is the Grindie mixtape, (CD but you know how retarded we be), which features 60 snippets of original indie and grime tracks, alongside those Grindie remixes, some like 'Positive Tension' and 'Generator', proving much stronger than others. While some people think it's a hype ting or a fad, isn't it about time someone livened things up and tried something Fresh like Fem? I'm in no way comparing this release, or Statik, to a deodrant for your ladies southern region, but listening to a lot of the lyrics doing the rounds, a number of MC's need to seriously exfoliate their output. This aside, I'm mostly listening to Jeff 'Dead' Buckley, Kelly 'American Idol' Clarkson and Bananarama's Greatest Tits. But you'll be pleased to know you can hear some tracks over at Statiks myspace, or if you gotta go and change a nappy, hit your local record shop on March 6th.

Statik Presents Grindie Vol. 1 Hosted By Scorcher, Big H & Pres T
1. Intro
2. Shout Outs
3. Larrikin Love - Happy As Annie - (Statik Remix Feat. Scorcher And Manga)
4. The Rakes - 22 Grand Job - (Statik Remix Feat. Lethal Bizzle)
5. Kaiser Chiefs - Everyday I Love U Less And Less (Fuck Drums Mix)
6. Statik Feat. D Double E - Supadoop
7. Babyshambles - Killamangiro
8. Statik Feat. Wiley, Jammer, Flodan And Skepta - The Rave
9. Lethal Bizzle - Mind Ur Head
10. Maximo Park - Apply Some Pressure
11. Kraftwerk - Numbers
12. Statik Feat. Jme, Big H, Schorcher, Ghetto, Godsgift, Napper, Solo 45, Pres T, Skepta And Hammer
13. The Strokes - Automatic Stop
14. Davinche - Mega Drive
15. Franz Ferdinand - Evil And A Hero
16. Fire Camp - Air On The Roads
17. Death From Above 1979 - Black History Month
18. Statik Feat. Tinchy Stryder, Skepta, Jammer And Nio - I Just Wanna Fu**
19. Pure Groove Records Skit
20. Bloc Party - Positive Tension (Statik Remix Feat. Flirta D)
21. The Kills - Your Love Is A Deserter
22. Tinchy Stryder - Underground
23. The Rakes - Binary Love
24. Terra Danjah - Radar (Statik Remix)
25. Interpol Evil (Original And Statik Refix)
26. Jme - Blue Portal
27. Test Icicles - Boa Vs. Python
28. Test Icicles - Boa Vs. Python (Statik Remix Instrumental)
29. Jon E Cash - Hoods Up
30. The Rakes - Binary Love
31. Young Dot - Bazooka
32. Blondie - Heart Of Glass
33. Wylie - Dubplate
34. TV On The Radio - Ambulance
35. Wylie - Colder Statik Remix
36. The Cribs - North Of England
37. Jimi Hendrix And Bob Dylan - All Along The Watchtower (Statik Refix)
38. The Engineers - Given Right - (Statik Refix)
39. Big E D - Frontline (Statik Remix)
40. The Rolling Stones - Paint It Black
41. Bloc Party - Price Of Gasoline (Automato Remix)
42. Statik Feat. Ghetto And Demon - Never Guess
43. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - On And On
44. Statik Feat. Wiley And Test Icicles - Shut Down
45. La Belle Et La Bete - Babyshambles - (Statik Refix)
46. La Belle Et La Bete - Babyshambles - (Original)
47. Arctic Monkeys - From The Ritz To The Rubble
48. Statik - Bring It On - Instrumental
49. Babyshambles - Pentonville
50. Nasty Crew - Run 4 Cover (Jamrock)
51. Madness - Driving In My Car
52. D Power - Bring It On Feat. Shizzle, Doctor, Napper, Ryder, Fresh, Nicki Forcer, Statik
53. The Holloways - Generator (Statik Remix Feat. Scorcher)
54. The Strokes - Between Love & Hate (Statik Refix)
55. Statik Feat. Wiley - No Time (2 Die)
56. Magic Numbers - Forever Lost
57. Lethal Bizzle - Mind Ur Head (Statik Remix)
58. Statik - Showerface - D Dark And S Kid Freestyle
59. Skepta - Watch
60. Scorcher - Doin Dis Ting Freestyle
61. Ladyfuzz - Bouncy Ball - Statik Remix Feat. Knuckles And Scorcher
62. Test Icicles - Boa Vs. Python - Statik Remix Feat. Firecamp
63. Vincent Vincent And The Villains - On My Own
64. Phoenix Drive - Supplement
65. Kid Harpoon

Kano Live Review

kanolive, originally uploaded by chantelle.

If you want to read it, click on the image and select the large option or if you're a lazy piece of turd, get your mum to read it out loud. Face, bothered? No.

Buggin Out

Bug B&W, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Celebrating soundclashing as urban warfare with bass lines so disgusting you could puke and electronic stabs that will have last nights dinner turning in your stomach… ok you get the idea? Fusing ragga with punk in frenzied mash-ups, The Bug’s Razor X Productions look set to cross over onto many playlists and cause havoc in any DJ set... Meet The Bug.

Q: Who is The Bug?
The Bug is Kevin Martin. He recorded the critically acclaimed album 'Pressure' for Rephlex/Tigerbeat6 in 2003, which received instant high praise from musical mavericks like Aphex Twin, Andy Weatherall, Kid 606, Massive Attack, Jerry Dammers etc... before being somewhat bitten by M.I.A.(As confessed by her manager and producers)

Q: Releases to date?
'Pressure' on Rephlex, 'Aktion Pak' on Rephlex, Several 7" releases on Razor X, 'Dem A Bomb We' on Ladybug and various remixes including The Streets and Saul Williams.

Q: How would you describe your sound?
Electro ragga to punk fuelled, grime flavoured bashment via deep electronic dub.

Q: Breakdown Razor X?
Razor X was a 7" label set up by The Bug and The Rootsman to release Babylonian battle tools, incinerate any dancefloor predators and kill off the party imposters.

Q: How did idea for project come about?
The Bug was a long time friend of The Rootsman and was aware Rootsman acted as a high profile dubplate producer for a large range of reggae and dancehall singers/deejays. They were both stung into musical action by Punk music before becoming Reggae converts. And both felt there was a need/opening for high intensity, renegade ragga.

Q: Do you know the artists on album personally?
Warrior Queen is the Bug"s regular live MC as is On-U Sound collaborator Ras B. Whilst Wayne Lonesome and Mexican are also friends and sometime live accomplices.

Q: Any memorable experiences recording it?
Working with the somewhat erratic Cutty Ranks, who decided to insult the engineer and provoke the producer on several occasions, whilst getting severely blunted and seriously mashed up on guiness, before dropping some seriously homicidal lyrics on 'Boom Boom Claat'.

Q: Fave track and why?
Probably 'Killer Queen', because 'Killer' had previously been the most acclaimed Razor X release, yet Warrior Queen dared to version the original and mash up He Man's original stone cold dead.

Q: What else is in pipeline?
Just started the Ladybug label for projected recordings with female mcs and eclectic female singers. In the process of signing to Ninja for the next proper Bug album. Recording Grime/Dubstep as Pressure. Collaborating with Dub poet Roger Robinson for a new album. And instigating 'BASH' at Plastic People (A new dancehall, bashment, dub night), with Loefah from Digital Mystikz).

Q: The Bugs current top 5?
1/ Cham - 'Ghetto Story'
2/Slew Dem Productions - 'Grime Remix'
3/Beenie Man - 'Come Again'
4/Kode 9 ft Space Ape - 'Backward/9 Samouri'
5/Digital Mystikz - 'Haunted'

Catch The Bug on 13th Feb - BBC Radio 1 Mary Ann Hobbs show(With guest MCs Warrior Queen/Ras B/Jimmy Screech/Ricky Ranking/Banana Klan/Riko/Flowdan/Stush/Space Ape/Roger Robinson), 23rd Feb - BASH(Plastic People - London), 3rd March - Theckla Bristol, 13th April - Concorde Brighton
30th April - Glasgow Barrowlands.

A version of this appeared in Blues & Soul Magazine

Look After Your Girls

barbie_catalog_prost copy, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Grimey Out Now On DMC

Grimey Out Now, originally uploaded by chantelle.

01. Intro
02. So Solid Crew 'Envy (They Don't Know - Vocal Mix)'
03. JME 'Serious'
04. Maxwell D 'Serious'
05. Danny Weed 'Creeper (Feat Roll Deep Freestyle)'
06. SLK 'Hype! Hype!'
07. Geeneus & Wiley ft Roll Deep 'Wickedest Ting'
08. Donae'o 'My Philosophy (Bounce)'
09. Dizzee Rascal 'I Luv U'
10. Sticky Feat. Ms Dynamite 'Boo! (Original Dirty Mix)'
11. Kano 'Boys Love Girls'
12. Target 'Steamrolla (Feat Roll Deep Freestyle)'
13. More Fire Crew 'Oi!'
14. Roll Deep 'Roll Deep Regular'
15. Tinchy Strider 'Underground'
16. Trim 'Boogeyman'
17. Wiley 'Wot U Call It?'
18. Stush 'Dollar Sign'

RWD On Straight Outta Bethnal

, originally uploaded by hattiec2.

Friday, Feb 17th, Straight Outta Bethnal:
Kicking off with RWD’s very own Hattie Collins and Chantelle Fiddy pon decks, who were “starting to sweat at Stanza's lateness as we were running low on the grime,” Collins later informs. They hadn't intended to play much but once they began, there was no going back (especially with their self-confessed lack of technical skills). Anyway, luckily Stanza arrived and did his Scandalous set - Scorcher definitely stole the spotlight there. We'd seen good things from Purple (previously doing well at Live and Urban Classics) and really liked his spots on Eye of the Tiger, but Scorcher seemed to have the lyrical upper-hand on this occasion. Watch out for more from Scorch, we reckon he's about to have a good year. JME and Skepta put in a great set - though we've seen them get better reactions, the mob-like following seemed kinda low energy in places - with JME particularly amusing during his Serious, Shh Hut Yuh Muh and Don't Get Rude moments - he and Skepta have great stage presence and put proper effort in whilst the Plasitcian reciprocated on the wheels of steel.
Other great moments came from Tiny 'Swiiiiiiiiing' Tempah, the Murkle Man and he who will blaze more than you – Kronik. Meanwhile upstairs there was another RWD invasion and colourful (in both clothing and music) DJ Chewy was sending for the funky house. Not wanting to move cos the Newham Generals arrival was imminent, we unfortunately missed most of his set. He sums up with, “I think it went well, the crowd were feeling my selection and as I’ve told people before, funky house is taking over.” In the Run the Road basement, The Generals were standing to attention and seeing D Double E do his thing was just too good. He might not move, and yes he's given to mumbling but he's just amazing to watch. Monkstar and Foots were also murking the dance, reaching for old but ever-popular reload bars. Double killed it lyrically; he’s still leagues ahead of so many others. Just when we thought their unique set was coming to an end, it got even better… Foots and D went back-to-back for Mic Centre over an on-point DJ Tubby selection, whilst Monkey enjoyed the reaction from the bubbling faithful. Not wanting the night to end we waited to see what was next, from nowhere it was time for Logan Sama’s Shower Hour and Ears (accompanied by Hoodlum) was on the mic. Just as we skanked to bars from the impressive Breath of Fresh Airs mixtape our peripheral vision spotted Ghetto and Lightning trying to make their way past stage security. Once they had obtained their white VIP Bands of Power and bypassed the competent foot soldiers, Getts touched the mic and it went off. Ghetto was completely sick - he had a whole other thing going on. He maybe too grimy for mainstream tastes but we reckon he'll go down a storm on the festival circuit this year - those indie kids are gonna go nuts when they see him live - Incredible. After the mic was passed from pillar to post it was definitely time to leave when there were more MCs on stage than people in the crowd. Overall, it was great to see the reactions of people watching - some people quite rightly looked amazed particularly at the moments where the MCs got excited. Nice too to see people smiling and having a good time - the way raving should be!

Words by the RWD Team – coming to a rave near you (email staff@rwdmag.com). www.rwdmag.com Picture Hattie Collins...

Online Review: December Event
Oh my diddy! The first in this exciting series of monthly nights kicked off with a (hmmm what’s louder than a bang) at its Shoreditch based home Friday November 18th. Not ones to shy away from such a splendid line-up of promised proceedings the RWD team made their way down a chilly Old Street and stopped at number 333. After the pleasant door staff checked our guest list credentials we gained access to the dance. Without a single moment spent resting on our lorals, we swiftly moved to the Run the Road Basement only to be greeted by none other than Hattie Collins (RWD Editor) and Chantelle Fiddy (679 A&R, Freelance Journalist) pon-ze-decks. Both with DIY ‘We Don’t Mix’ slogans Puff Painted to their t-shirts we knew we’d be in for an interesting start to the evening. Fiddy seemed content on stirring up crowd hype for her partner in crime who was in fine form and excelled with her timeless selection, choosing an eclectic array of riddims ranging from the grimiest of Lady Sovereign remixes to R&B classics like Foxy Brown and Blackstreet’s Get Me Home. Her epic set was only let down by slight crowd-seething technical hitches [which were not her fault but the person who bought connecting wires from Netto] and her inability to mix, but all-in-all jolly good show girls. Def Jam UK’s DJ Samurai (who’s more street than the A-Z) and Luckie from Advance replaced the two budding Disc Jockey’s and the night upped its speed. Samurai drew his sword and unleashed just about every big track under the sun and audiographically showed exactly what he’s made of. Ms Collins who so far held the prestigious title of Track of the Night was soon surpassed when we heard Forward 2 (which we like to call Forward 1.91567) - you know the one that was leaked with Flirta D having an asthma attack about half way through. After the various reloads of F1.91567 and many trying to get their breath back from limited Flirta imitations, Ears made his way to the stage.
The Pronoun Boy and his entourage of hungry MCs including the lyrically vast Stamina Boy, the video camera wielding All in One and up-and-coming Hoodlum were waiting for instrumentals and the DJ duly obliged. Right now MC Ears has grown out of Jammer’s shadow and is arguably the hottest thing on road (GO GET HIS MIXTAPE!). Ears with his unique dance style got the crowd to pre-boiling point and his ‘Ear ‘em scare ‘em, wear ‘em tear ‘em’ bars got a massive hijack. Going through each lyric with more vigour than a freshly charged Energiser Bunny, he excelled and proved why he’s one to watch for 2006. Just when we thought that was it for the night and contemplated a pipe and slipper, Ovaltine influenced early night, it soon took a turn for the better. From nowhere No Lay emerged on the mic and breathed lyrical fire to the avid and growing crowd. The well-known flows which earned her a much deserved reload were a grimed-out audience pleasing treat and she murked the beat until the mic was eventually passed to Roll Deep’s Scratchy. Mr B.U.N. then proceeded to go back to back with his less talented partner in crime JD but best moments definitely came from Scratch as he let loose with infamous lines like, ‘Stab you in the back, but I’m not a back stabber’ and equally reload-worthy vocal content… Big!!!
With no sign of Bruza or Ace and Invisible (apparently across the other side of town) it was down to Logan ‘more dubs than a mastering suite’ Sama, Skepta, Jammer and co to represent. Skepta (who was once again rocking insane comrade styled From Russia With Love headwear) wasn’t waiting around and soon let off kingsized bars sending for many a crew. Multiple much deserved rewinds followed and then the Murkle Man donned the microphone. Being too far away from on-point selecta Sama to initiate a self-reload he earned one through his own verbal efforts, leaving those inside 333 watching in anticipation. That eagerness was soothed as Skepta unleashed another big bar aimed towards a certain artist from North West London and at that point Jammer went head first into the crowd, performing a Superman Dread stage dive into the unsuspecting individuals at the front. Dressed from head-to-toe in white adidas, Jammer was a blanc blur and somehow at that very moment intensified the jubilation of all those lucky enough to be inside… Once again big big big!!!
Big bad Rossi B did a massive jungle set upstairs and the night in the basement finished with Logan dropping brand new Wiley joints, Slew Dem’s ‘Blaze more than you’ soldier Chronik getting a few big reactions and Fuda from Ruff Sqwad wiping the floor with life-size bars. Another massive night for the RWD team and massive props to the organisers.

Tales from the frontline by Danny Walker

Head Banging

She's a great shot., originally uploaded by Professional Recreationalist.

"We are like sculptors, constantly carving out of others the image we long for, need, love or desire, often against reality, against their benefit, and always, in the end, a disappointment, because it does not fit them." Anais Nin

Coventry Crew

flyer_frontt, originally uploaded by chantelle.

DJ Lioness Playlist

Doctor - Gotta Man
Faction G - Neck Of The Woods
Jammer - Mercul Man Remix (Instrumental)
DaVinChe - Phaze
Ms Dynamite, Wariko & Selah - Gotta Make It Through
DaVinChe, Bashy & Katie Pearl - Pryin
Ny - Fire
Ny - Embrace
Footsie - Scars
Dreama - Strangers Remix
Danielle Senior - Next To You
Wonder Feat. Nio - Best Foot Forward
Charmzy - Banger
Skreamz - The Request Line
Fury - Colder Remix Freestyle
Wiley - Eski Boy Instrumental
Wiley - Eski Boy
Shotz - Crossfire VIP
Dcoy - Barbarian
Jiggalo Feat. Louie Lou - Leave You
Terror Danjah - Unknown
Spyro - 60 Pence
Dj Mackie - Dont Shoot
Scandalous Unlimited - Oh Yes
N.A.S.T.Y - This Song
Skepta - Go On Den
Mega (South Agents) - Coke Drive
Rossi B & Luca - In The Place Instrumental
Jammer - Shangooli (Lewi White Remix)
Charmzy - Anthem
Dj Mackie - Sitar
Snipe Keedo - Xtra Freestyle
Flirta D - Step In The Club
Dreama - Cherry
DaVinChe - Mega Drive
OT & Dogenham Alliance - Untitled
N.A.S.T.Y - Gang Banger
Blackjack - Arcade
Fire Camp - Forward 2
High Grade Clan - Step To Us (Special)
J Sweet - Over Drive
Miss Beatz - Saw It Comin Instrumental
Big E D - Q Bass
Zero (South Agents) - Nu Step
Tubby T Feat. Purple - Ready She Ready (Scandalous Unlimited Remix)
Smasher - Do What You Gotta Do
Blemish - Independent Ladies
Lyrically Scar'd - Fallin
Sound Syndicate Feat. Others - My style
SATURDAYS FROM 3PM ON RINSE 100.3FM

Tonight At Live

live-270206, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Concentrate

concentrate, originally uploaded by screaming lulu.

Charts

Hot Zone: Rhythm Division's Best Sellers
1. Slew Dem - Grime Remix EP (White)
2. Godsgift - Mic Tribute (2006 Old Skool Mega Mix) (White)
3. Wiley - Eski Boy (White)
4. Footsie - Scars Remix/Dirtee Skankin (Dirtee Stank)
5. Soundbwoy Ent feat Doctor - Never Wanna Say Bye Bye (Smoove)
6. Ruff Sqwad - No Bass EP (White)
7. Iron Soul - Heavens Rejects EP (Sweet Beetz)
8. Jammer - Murkle Man & Remix (White)
9. Rossi B & Luca feat Nasty - In The Place/Run 4 Cover (White)
10. Riddler Records - EP 6 (Riddler Records)
Compiled by Sparkie @ Rhythm Division, 391 Roman Road, Bow E3. 020 8981 2203. All audio can be heard at www.rhythmdivision.co.uk

Guest Chart: Plastician
1. Skream V's Skepta - Request Line V's Duppy (Dub)
2. Macabre Unit - Killer Bee (Dub)
3. Wiley - Eski Boy (White)
4. JME - Deadout (Boy Better Know)
5. The Plastician - Japan (Dub)
6. Digital Mystikz - Shattered (DMZ)
7. Roots Manuva - Colossal Insight Jammer Rmx (Big Dada)
8. Delerious - Deep Cut (Dub)
9. Wiley - Avenger (Dub)
10. Rossi B & Luca - Nobody Knows (Dub)
You can hear the Plastician formerly known as Plasticman on The Residency, Radio 1, 3-5am on rotation every 6 weeks www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/dance/residency Check out Plasticians forthcoming dates and productions on www.myspace.com/djplasticman

Logan Sama's Top 10 Dubs blowing up soon...
1. Mastermind Trooperz ft Guests - Rep Your Ends
2. Ms Dynamite - Don't Stop, Stay Strong
3. JME - Deadout
4. Wiley - Gangsters
5.Narstie & Solo - Brushman
6. Jammer ft Dirtee Stank - Murkleman Remix
7. Skepta ft Creed - Doin It Again (Duppy)
8. Scorcher - Chance Us
9. Nasty Crew - This Song
10. 2 Nice ft Riko & Vybz Kartel - Dead VIP
Hear Logan Sama on Kiss100 FM, Monday's 11-1am. http://www.logansama.blogspot.com Enquiries: info@logansama.com

Focus Mode

DSCF0389, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Mixtapes are dropping like flies, but the DJ Skully presents Klashnekoff 'Focus Mode' looks set to be one of the few that actually stands the test of time... Twenty-something year old east Londoner Klashnekoff became the epitome of British hip hop when he released his debut album, 'The Sagas', in 2004. The media machine may be guilty of hyping one artist after another but with Klashnekoff there was no big marketing campaign or major label push, with sales exceeding the 20,000 mark, it was the people that had spoken. "I put energy into every track I do" Klash explains to The Voice, inbetween swapping digits with Biggz. "Listen to the Saga's, every tune is good in it's own right..."
If anything it's been hard for Klashnekoff to escape the bangers like 'Murda'. Touring the club circuit with his Terror Firma family aside, he's been mostly holed up in a Nottingham studio with Joe Buddha, creating his sophomore album, Lion Heart, due to land in 2006, an album which Klashnekoff cites as having "an angrier edge" to it. Then there's the mixtape currently heating up the streets. A 25 track excursion through his words past and present, from the re-working of classics like 'Black Rose' (over Bobby Valentino's 'Slow Down' beat) and 'Son Of Niya', to new freestyles like title track 'Focus Mode' and his popular 'Jamrock Takeover', the package is well, complete. "I've got something to say, when you interview me I'm not like 'yeah blud', it flows... No matter how big I get I'll never go like that. I'd have lost my core. Life is too short." In his own words, it's his "sensitive, man of depth, articulate, intelligent to a point, conscious and switchy" approach to lyricism and life in general that have earned him the deserved respect. Although his stage name is often frowned upon, there's a valid argument to his gun moniker. "Malcolm X carried a Kalashnikov, it was a gun created to protect and I'd think 'what if a Klashnikov could tell a story?" And he's not wrong. He remains one of the few artists who garner love from rap fans across the board, grime to backpacker, young and old. His extremely real and personal take on issues including race, sex, music and politics never fail to impress. "If you listen to my music you can hear that, It's got aggi bits in it but it's in context. I'm not going to say it just for the sake of it, or to shock. Enough of these guys don't care about the bigger picture of being an artist, all they care about is road fame, it's a ghetto fabulous ting, then they'll go hate on someone like Dizzee, Lethal B or Kano. But these people inspire me, I told Lethal that the other day, on a real level. Whether you like the music or not you gotta respect the ethic." Where the future is concerned, besides looking at acting options, Klashnekoff is equally frank. "I don't know. I see the scene imploding on itself cause of the shanking and murking going on, and certain man who want to come into this game and eat, as they say... We make music from the heart, to me hip hop or 'black' music is struggle of a people, story of the people that's been embraced by other cultures who can identify by it. The basis of it, the ethics, the code it's been lost... people aren't watching the Americans, people are watching their clothes, their game, their earnings but not how they got there. It's been lost and the future don't look bright to me. I don't look at the scene and think of myself, I just think I gotta do what I gotta do."
A version of this appeared in The Voice, 2006.

RWD In Stereo

rwd_in_stereo_email, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Fire In The Hole

Colourful State - Fire In The Hole EP, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Interesting title, interesting release.

Delayed Reaction

Rephlex records ragga renegade The Bug has joined forces with Loefah from dubstep bass dons Digital Mystikz to promote a new night at Plastic People. 'Bash' will be aimed directly at dancehall partyseekers fiending for the latest bashment rhythms, classic ragga, heavyweight dub and reggaefied hip hop (Nerds, trainspotters and the moody boys need not apply), as residents, guests and host MCs resolutely set out to ensure the bass will put a smile upon your face. Thursday 23rd Feb (And the last Thursday of every month) BASH (Presented by The Bug & Loefah) Policy : Bashment, Dub, Ragga, Rockers, Roots, Lovers, Soca... DJs on rotation ; Adrian Sherwood(On U Sound), Andy Weatherall(Warp), Treva(Saxon), Coki, Mala, Loefah(DMZ)
DJ Rupture(Soul Jazz, Tigerbeat6), New Flesh(Big Dada), Jason(Transition), Seamus(Ital), Russ(The Disciples), Kode 9(Hyperdub), Tayo(BBC Radio 1), Mary Anne Hobbs(BBC Radio 1), The Bug(Rephlex), The Rootsman(Third Eye), Seanie T(Dark Horizons) Hosts: Warrior Queen(Rephlex, Casual), Ras B(Rephlex/On U Sound), Ricky Ranking/Jimmy Screech(Banana Klan)
Sgt Pokes(DMZ). "Let the bass put a smile upon your face"

Running Berlin

02.03.06runtheroadBerlinflyer, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Check the club here http://www.raum-klang.de/360.html

Spanking

spankside email, originally uploaded by chantelle.

This Saturday. Do it.

Leeds Fixup

fixstick, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Same night as the next Straight Outta Bethnal but that won't matter if you're up north anyway

Killer Flu

Good god, Laura!, originally uploaded by hazey*.

The mother of all mothers has had me hostage since Sunday afternoon. Was waiting to link MTV when it crept up on me from behind like a slam dunk in the neck. Fiddy got KO. After the initial slap, that was me, just me and my pit of despair with a box of tissues, Lemsip Max and Vicks for company. This was no funky, American Pie shit either. I can't remember the last time a week of my life was this wasted, but I'll never be a wasted chick... so I'm back.

13 Things PMS Stands For

1. Pass My Shotgun
2. Psychotic Mood Shift
3. Perpetual Munching Spree
4. Puffy Mid-Section
5. People Make me Sick
6. Provide Me with Sweets
7. Pardon My Sobbing
8. Pimples May Surface
9. Pass My Sweatpants
10. Pissy Mood Syndrome
11. Plainly; Men Suck
12. Pack My Stuff
13. Potential Murder Suspect

Tonight!

A6_SoEffec_Liverpool_b, originally uploaded by chantelle.

A Grimey Kinda Love

Barbies in a basket, originally uploaded by .Ariel.

It's time to get real this Valentines Day. Forget cards, flowers and dinner for two. Save your money, buy some condoms. You gotta treat everyday like it's Feb 14th cause love is not what is used to be. The emotion may be the same but not the conditions it is living under. Forget the body, although that's probably just as far up shit creek, but shouts to society and The Age Of Chaos. Under this theorem falls Chaos' cousin, technology, the internet definitely a top 5 contender for the 'who's to blame for the state of relationships' award. While not entirely pessimistic, with 14th Feb now upon us, it's as good as time as any to address the outdated ideals forced down our throats, not just by the laws of marketing but by expectations in everyday dating (*linking in youth speak). Where dating and relationships are concerned, we're still kidding ourselves into living by rules, manners, morals and expectations determined way, way back. This was in a time when young people didn't mail nude shots of themselves to 'friends' on msn, myspace or facepic, a time when temptations were fewer and promiscuity wasn't been thrust in our faces (pun intended), left right and centre. Ultimately It was a time when faithfulness, respect and fidelity were far more common place. Perhaps society and the age we live in would have been preferable in a past life, but we're living in the now. What we need to be readdressing is the way we are acting in and out of relationships, not just the way we present ourselves but how we deal with the consequences, problems and forces at work. Don't be governed by the way people around you are living, what you read in magazines, see in films or handed down expectations. Do you. And if you're going to do someone else, make sure you're doing it with dignity and pride.

Live Loves Grime

Live Loves Grime, originally uploaded by chantelle.

Straight Outta Bethnal

Bethnal-Feb-06, originally uploaded by chantelle.

We're back with another night of moshing, mic checking and one finger skanking as Straight Outta Bethnal & Run The Road brings another industrial portion of indoor street party action to Shoreditch.

Representing on Feb 17th: DJ Tubby & Newham Generals (D Double E, Monkey & Footsie/ Dirtee Stank), Logan Sama (Kiss 100), Samuarai (Def Jam UK), JME & Skepta (Roll Deep/Meridian), Plastician aka Plasticman (Radio 1/Rephlex), True Tiger camp (Scandalous Unltd), DJ Wonder (exclusive deep electro house set), Matchstick (crunk & club classics), Chewy (funky house), ELSid (Hotflush/dub/breaks), Fiddy & Collins (RWD)

And you can bet your gran Prince Harry's gonna want g-list.

STRAIGHT OUTTA BETHNAL, 17TH FEB @ 333 OLD STREET. £5 B4 11PM, £10 AFTER. NO DRESSCODE. As recommended by Time Out, Metro, Evening Standard, i-D and RWD Magazine.

"It's the sort of night you'd want to go to... Get down and represent" i-D Magazine

Friday 17th Feb

S.O.B flyer design, originally uploaded by chantelle.