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Arts and Entertainment

Welcoming Mr. J. Medeiros

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There's two things you should do this Monday, July 23: (1) pick up Mr. J. Medeiros latest album Of gods and girls, and (2) head down to Mr. J's album release party at the Knitting Factory with guest performances by Blue Scholars and DJ inka. Doors open at 9pm, and the $10 cover will be well worth it!

Of gods and girls is the latest creation of Mr. J. Medeiros, an emcee that is recently making taking up residence in LA and joining the greatness of Rawkus Records. The album brings out Mr. J's conscious lyrics and is paired up with vibrant beats, definitely being one of this summer's best releases. From the group The Procussions, Mr. J. has come quite a bit in his attempts to change people for the betterment of society.

Aside from getting tatted up on the show Miami Ink, Mr. J. is dedicated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, and is lyrically bound to create masterpieces like "Constance." "Constance" is a story about a 13 year-old-girl that is caught up in child pornography and human trafficking. Definitely being one of my favorite, the song's powerful lyrics and alluring beats makes this track one of the hottest on the album; just take a peak at the video above.

The album features collaborations with quite a few praise-worthy emcees, including 20Syl of Hocus Pocus, Strange Fruit, and Pigeon John. The starting track, "Amole," starts out with a jazz based intro backed up with a smooth love song and includes 20Syl's beautiful verse on dreaming about being with your love and the impact of their beauty (for those that don't speak French). The album touches on self-esteem, violence, and, contrary to most hip-hop albums, women issues. Of gods and girls offers a glimpse into reality with body-rocking beats, keeping you captivated and conscious without the feel of being preachy.

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