Carrying on tradition of Jazz-Hop for 2025 is the uplifting sound of Headnodic, Jazz Mafia, Genra & Ozay Moore. The classic R&B tune by Keni Burke takes on new form as this collective elevate with boom-bap and brass. Let the positive vibe of "Rising" inspire you to shoot for the sky based on the humble perspective conveyed in the rhymes and it's jazzy sound. From Headnodic and Jazz Mafia's self-titled album out now on Be With.

Cost-Effective MPC Alternatives: The Allure of the MPC

Since the late 80’s Hip Hop era, the Akai Music Production Center has become a staple of the studio. It’s rhythmic and sonic capabilities have shaped the sound of not only countless Hip Hop classics but modern music. Everyone from finger drumming musicians to sample-based producers continue to find ways to utilize this machine. 

I’ve featured many heavy-hitters of the MPC over the years at the blog and I continue to seek more. If you know of any outstanding up-and-coming MPC users, leave ‘em in the comments! Many artists have relied on this machine’s intuitive workflow, tactile feel, and distinctive sound invented by Roger Linn. However, owning this esteemed hardware comes at a growing cost. So, let's look into the allure of the MPC, why they demand such a premium, and cost-effective MPC alternatives.

The MPC: A Brief History of a Legend

The MPC’s journey began in 1988 with the release of the MPC60, a revolutionary instrument that changed music production forever. The MPC60 introduced the now-famous 16-pad layout, becoming the heart of the MPC experience. This innovative design, coupled with its robust sampling capabilities and built-in sequencer became a go-to at the time. Over the years, Akai continues to release numerous follow-ups, each building upon the legacy of the original MPC60. For instance, the MPC3000, MPC2000XL, and the more recent MPC Live, MPC One, and MPC X. Undoubtedly, Akai continues to innovate and redefine sampling, live performance and beat making.

Why Are They So Expensive?

The cost of an MPC can be a significant barrier to entry for aspiring beat makers. Especially in Hip Hop which is a culture of limited resources but aspiring minds. Several factors contribute to their premium price point. Firstly, Akai has cultivated a reputation for producing high-quality, professional-grade instruments. Their MPCs are built to withstand years of studio use and are known for their durable pads, responsive hardware, and powerful software. This commitment to design quality is reflected in their pricing. Secondly, the demand for the classic MPCs (from the 60 to the 3000) remains strong. This sustained popularity drives up prices over time, especially on the secondhand market. Finally, the research, development, and manufacturing costs associated with creating such complex and feature-rich instruments play a role in their higher price.

Do You Really Need An MPC?

The question of whether or not you need an MPC is subjective and ultimately depends on your individual needs, budget, and workflow. While the MPC offers powerful options that have created classics, you can absolutely achieve professional-quality results with other tools. The rise of affordable and powerful music production software (like Beatmaker 3), coupled with the availability of versatile MIDI controllers, has opened up a world of possibilities for the budget-conscious producer. It’s not ‘88 anymore where you were limited to hardware. Today, beat making technology is abundant and available from your desktop computer or iPad. Fortunately, you can replicate much of the MPC workflow and sound without spending a fortune. It's about finding the tools that best suit your creative vision and budget.

Hip Hop & The MPC

We’ve all seen the MPC in countless studio pics over the years, and more recently through posts on social media. Hip Hop is known for it’s innovative use of audio equipment as it leaves it’s unique imprint upon technology. Hence, we must think toward the future as well as the past when choosing music production tools. It’s cool to have the classic staples in your set up like the Technics turntable and an MPC. But also pay attention to the array of useful gear coming out that can make your workflow easier, and save you money. As a result, I’m happy to present this article which will hopefully get new technology into the right hands. From this and other case studies I present, I hope the next Hip Hop classics will eventually be born.

Cost-Effective MPC Alternatives: The iPad

You can achieve professional-quality results without an MPC. The key is finding tools that best suit your creative vision and your budget. The rise of affordable and powerful music production software paired with versatile MIDI controllers has opened up a world of possibilities for budget-conscious beatmakers. And one of the best ways to get that classic MPC workflow and sound without shelling out big bucks is to look no further than the iPad. Just ask Madlib!

iPads: More Than Meets The Eye

iPads have transcended their initial purpose as entertainment devices to become veritable powerhouses for music production. Their portability, intuitive touch interface, and ever-expanding app ecosystem make them an enticing alternative to traditional hardware. And when it comes to MPC-style beat making, the iPad, paired with the right software and a MIDI controller, can deliver a remarkably authentic experience.

Beatmaker 3: A Powerful, Affordable DAW

At the heart of the iPad MPC experience lies Beatmaker 3. This robust Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) has earned its reputation as a powerhouse for beat making on the go. Beatmaker 3's intuitive interface, powerful sampling engine, and comprehensive feature set make it an incredibly versatile tool for crafting beats. With its 64-pad drum machine interface, you can trigger samples, create patterns, and arrange full songs, all within a touch-friendly environment. Beatmaker 3 seamlessly integrates with a wide range of MIDI controllers, allowing you to expand your creative control and tactile experience.

If you're ready for Beatmaker 3, it's available at a 4.5-star rating here at Apple's App store.

eSPi’s SP1200: One Of The Best Cost-Effective MPC Alternatives

eSPi nails that raw, gritty 12-bit sound that made the SP-1200 a legend. It's not just about the bit depth; it's about capturing the entire sonic essence of that vintage sampler. Think punchy drums, crunchy snares, and warm, textured samples. You'll instantly recognize that classic vibe that defined countless hip-hop and electronic music tracks. 

Above, check out what Hip Hop has to say as some of it’s greatest producers demo this software. Then feel free to check out this app here at Apple's App store.

Drop-Sample Interpolation: Adding to the Vintage Vibe

To further enhance its vintage authenticity, eSPi incorporates drop-sample interpolation. This technique, used in the original SP-1200, creates a distinctive sonic character by skipping samples during playback. It adds a subtle roughness and unpredictability to the sound, pushing those vintage vibes even further.

No Sample Time Limits: Hours of Sampling Potential

Unlike the SP-1200, which was notorious for its limited sample time, eSPi breaks free from those constraints. With eSPi, you have virtually unlimited sampling time. Go ahead, sample entire songs, long atmospheric passages, or anything your heart desires. The only limit is your imagination (and maybe your hard drive space).

Onboard Effects: Shaping Your Sound with Ease

eSPi doesn’t just stop at sampling and sequencing; it also provides a suite of onboard effects to shape your sounds. Add depth and dimension with reverb, sculpt your frequencies with EQ, or get experimental with filters and modulation effects. You have all the tools you need to take your sounds from raw samples to polished sonic masterpieces, all within eSPi's intuitive workflow.

Roland’s SP 303: The Machine Made Famous By Madlib

You might have seen a video of Madlib aka the Loop Digger visit Brazil and construct a beat with the Roland SP303. As you can see, he’s got it set up right next to his MPC. This cost-effective tool has gained popularity in Hip Hop since Madlib’s embrace. With that said, let’s explore this compact but powerful machine.

This little guy made by Roland is nicknamed the "Dr. Sample" and it's a really cool piece of gear! It's a groove box, which means it has everything you need to make beats in one box: a sampler, a sequencer, and effects. Most notably, it's way more affordable than an MPC! 

What Makes the SP-303 Special?

● Simple to Use: The SP-303 is super user-friendly. You don't need a degree in engineering to figure it out. It’s big, chunky buttons and knobs make it really easy to use as you can see in Madlib’s demonstration of the 303.

● Hands-on Fun: This thing is all about real-time creativity. You can tweak the effects while your beat is playing, which is awesome for live performances or just jamming out. Plus, there's this cool EXT SOURCE pad that lets you run any sound from a mixer or other device through the SP-303 and add those awesome effects to it!

● Easy on the Budget: Like we said, the SP-303 won't break the bank. It's a great way to get into hardware sampling and sequencing without spending a fortune.

● Unique Sound: The SP-303 has this unique, kind of gritty sound that people love. It's not super high-fidelity, but that's part of its charm. It's been used by a lot of famous producers, especially in hip-hop and electronic music.

SP-303’s Sonic Character & Features

Sampling: The SP-303 is a mono sampler, meaning it records sounds on one channel. It records at CD quality (44.1kHz), so your samples will sound nice and clean.

● Patterns: The sequencer is where you build your beats. You can record your samples into patterns and arrange them however you like. It has four pattern banks, so you have plenty of space to work.

● Effects: The SP-303 has 26 built-in effects that you can use to get creative with your sounds. There's a Vinyl Simulator to give your samples that old-school record feel, filters to shape the sound, a voice transformer to mess with vocals, and a bunch of other cool stuff.

● MIDI: If you want to use a keyboard or another sequencer to control the SP-303, you can! It has MIDI in and out, so it can talk to other MIDI devices. You can even use it as a sound module to trigger sounds from another device.

● Portable Powerhouse: The SP-303 is small and light enough to take with you wherever you go. You can even run it on batteries if you need to!

So, if you're looking for a fun, affordable, and easy-to-use sampler that can give you some killer beats, the SP-303 is definitely worth checking out. It's a classic for a reason! 

Roland's SP 303, now available here at Guitar Center and here on eBay.

MIDI Controllers: Unleash Your Inner Beatmaker

While Beatmaker 3's on-screen pads are great to tap on, a hardware MIDI controller can elevate your beat making game. Although Beatmaker 3 can be used solely as a MIDI Controller to trigger sounds in your DAW, also consider using an MPD. I can recall RZA once saying once in an interview about the importance for producers to have something physical to touch when producing. A MIDI controller provides a physical interface for triggering samples, adjusting parameters, and interacting with your music in a way that goes beyond a touchscreen. Plus, that tactile feedback is essential for achieving that classic MPC feel. Just ask Symbolyc One, the producer of KanYe’s Power who uses the keys of his MacBook to trigger his samples in Ableton. 

Akai MPD218: Affordable, Feature-Packed, and Portable

The Akai MPD218 is a fantastic entry-level MIDI controller for iPad beatmakers. This compact device features 16 velocity-sensitive pads that are renowned for their responsiveness and feel, capturing the essence of the MPC experience. But don't let its small size fool you; the MPD218 is packed with features. Six endless encoders provide tactile control over various parameters, while dedicated buttons offer access to pad banks, program changes, and note repeat functionality. It is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from your iPad, eliminating the need for external power supplies. The MPD218 is also class-compliant, so it works seamlessly with your iPad without requiring any special drivers.

Start banging out beats with an MPD and change the trajectory of your production game. MPD's are now available to purchase here at Amazon.

Endless Encoders: What They Are and Why You Need Them

One of the standout features of the MPD218, and many MIDI controllers, is the inclusion of endless encoders. Unlike traditional knobs with a fixed start and end point, endless encoders can be rotated infinitely. This is a game-changer for controlling software parameters. You never have to worry about resetting the knob to its original position or hunting for the correct value; just grab and twist.

Velocity Sensitivity: Add Expression to Your Beats

The MPD218's velocity-sensitive pads are essential for adding expression to your beats. Velocity sensitivity means the harder you hit a pad, the louder the corresponding sound. This dynamic control allows you to create more nuanced and expressive performances, just like you would on a real drum kit or MPC.

Hardware Note Repeat: Get Creative with Your Rhythms

Another powerful feature of the MPD218 is its hardware note repeat. This function allows you to trigger a sequence of notes with a single pad press. This is incredibly useful for creating rapid hi-hat patterns, drum rolls, and other rhythmic variations. You can adjust the note repeat rate and even control the velocity of the repeated notes by varying your pad pressure.

Syncing with Beatmaker 3: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure your MPD218's note repeat and other timing-related functions are perfectly synchronized with Beatmaker 3, you'll need to enable MIDI clock sync. In Beatmaker 3's MIDI settings, turn on MIDI Clock Out. This sends timing information from your iPad to the MPD218, ensuring everything is in sync. You may also need to adjust latency settings for optimal performance

Mapping MIDI Controllers: A Quick Guide

Mapping a MIDI controller to Beatmaker 3 is straightforward. Within the app's settings, you'll find a dedicated section for MIDI Focus Actions, where you can assign each pad and knob to specific functions within Beatmaker 3. You can manually map each control or use the auto-learn feature for a more streamlined setup. This customization lets you create a personalized workflow that perfectly suits your needs.

Cost-Effective MPC Alternatives: Standalone Samplers and Sequencers

So we’ve looked at using an iPad as a cost-effective alternative to an MPC, but what if you’d rather not be tethered to a tablet? Maybe you crave the tactile experience and focused workflow of a dedicated hardware device. If that sounds more like your style, the world of standalone samplers and sequencers has some affordable options. Standalone samplers and sequencers are the perfect blend of classic hardware workflow and modern production techniques. They offer the immediacy and hands-on control of classic MPCs, but with added features like built-in synthesizers, advanced sequencing capabilities, and portability that rivals even the most compact iPad setups.

Roland MC-101: The Pocket Powerhouse

If portability is paramount, the Roland MC-101 is an ideal choice. This compact groovebox punches well above its weight, offering four-track polyphonic sequencing, a built-in Zen-Core synthesis engine, and sample playback and editing capabilities. Its diminutive size makes it ideal for on-the-go beat making, fitting easily into a backpack or even your pocket. The MC-101 packs a lot of creative potential into a small package.

Check out the MC-101 available here at Amazon.com

Novation Circuit: A Versatile Groovebox

The Novation Circuit is another popular machine that has garnered praise for its intuitive workflow and sonic versatility. With its combination of sample-based drum tracks and built-in synthesizers, the Circuit provides a comprehensive platform for crafting beats and melodies. Its compact design and battery power make it an excellent choice for mobile music production. It's got a design that is reminiscent of Ableton Push and Maschine controllers.

Novation Circuit Tracks vs. Original Circuit: Which One is Right for You?

Novation has expanded the Circuit family with the Circuit Tracks, a refined version that builds upon the success of the original. Both models offer similar core functionality, but there are a few key differences to consider. The Circuit Tracks boasts additional MIDI tracks, expanding your options for controlling external gear. The original Circuit is more affordable, making it a great entry point into the standalone sampler world. The choice between the two depends on your needs and budget. If you're primarily focused on standalone beat making and want to keep costs down, the original Circuit is a fantastic choice. If you need more MIDI sequencing power and are willing to spend a bit more, the Circuit Tracks is worth considering.

Circuit Tracks MIDI controller by Novation, now available here at Sam Ash.

Cost-Effective MPC Alternatives: Just MIDI Sequencers

Generally, standalone samplers and sequencers offer a comprehensive approach to Hip Hop production. However, sometimes you just need a dedicated MIDI sequencer to control your external synths and drum machines. Dedicated MIDI sequencers provide focused control over your hardware, allowing you to craft intricate patterns and arrangements. They often come with features specifically tailored for sequencing, such as advanced step editing, pattern chaining, and extensive MIDI control options. If you already have a sampler or DAW, a dedicated MIDI sequencer can be a powerful addition to your setup.

Arturia Keystep Pro: MIDI Sequencing and Keyboard Control

The Arturia Keystep Pro is a versatile keyboard controller that also packs a powerful MIDI sequencer. Its 37-key keyboard, with aftertouch and velocity sensitivity, makes it a joy to play, and its four-track sequencer provides ample space for creating dynamic patterns. With 16 voices per track, you can build complex arrangements. The Keystep Pro's standout feature is its extensive CV connectivity, making it a perfect choice for controlling both modern and vintage gear. You can clock synths that might not have MIDI, trigger arpeggiators, and explore a multitude of other creative possibilities.

Choose Arturia's small 32-key controller or their larger 37-key controller with built-in sequencer. Already have a DAW or Beatmaker 3 as a sequencer which you'd like to trigger using the 32-key controller? Then the 32-key is you're most affordable option.

The Roland MV-8000: RZA’s All-in-One Production Powerhouse

If you're looking for a studio centerpiece that does it all, consider the Roland MV-8000. This is more than just a sampler—it's like having a full production studio packed into one box. You’re getting a stereo sampler that records at 44.1kHz/16-bit, 128 MB of memory for capturing and tweaking sounds, and a whopping 64-voice polyphony. That means you can stack and layer tracks to your heart’s content without running out of room. I feel like this is a slept-on piece of hardware in Hip Hop, even after it’s endorsement by The RZA. But you can now buy a MV-8000 for 1/2 the price of an MPC on eBay!

Oh, and the built-in effects? Game-changer. With 24 algorithms for multi-effects, plus reverb and chorus/delay, you can really shape your sound right out of the box. Add in mastering tools, and you’re set to polish your tracks to perfection. 

MV-8000s have been discontinued for awhile now, but used MV's are available here at eBay.

Why An MV is Perfect for Modern Producers

What really sets the MV-8000 apart is how it blends the tactile joy of hardware with the convenience of modern tech. Its sequencer is a dream for multitaskers—128 MIDI tracks and 8 stereo audio tracks all in one spot. Want to record vocals, layer drums, and control synths? This handles it seamlessly. That’s something the MPC60, for all its classic charm, just wasn’t built to do.

And let’s talk storage. Instead of floppy disks (a throwback to the dawn of the MPC and SP1200), the MV-8000 gives you an internal hard drive for all your projects and samples. Need to swap files with your computer? Plug it in via USB. Plus, if you’re someone who likes to see the big picture, you can hook up a VGA monitor and mouse for graphical editing. It’s like having a DAW, but with the hands-on control of hardware.

Comparing the MPC60 and Roland MV-8000: Which One's Right for You?

As one comparison example, let’s take a look into the differences between the Akai MPC60 and the Roland MV-8000. Each represents a distinct approach to music production, and both offer unique strengths depending on your workflow and creative needs. Let’s break down each of these discontinued machines.

Sampling and Sound Design

MPC60: Old-school charm, released in 1988. It’s a mono sampler (no fancy stereo samples here unless you record each channel separately) with a warm 12-bit sound at 40kHz. It’s limited by memory, but its gritty tones are beloved for hip-hop and lo-fi beats. You’ve got 128 sounds to work with and 16 playback voices—not bad for its era! At the time of me writing this article, they are selling between $2,000 and $5,000 on eBay.

MV-8000: Modern versatility, released in 2003. It’s a stereo sampler with cleaner 16-bit/44.1kHz sound quality. Plus, it handles mono and stereo samples with ease. With 64-voice polyphony, you can layer sounds and build lush, complex arrangements—perfect for producers looking for cost-effective MPC alternatives. You can buy one from $500 to $800 on sites like Guitar Center, Reverb and eBay.

Sequencing Power

MPC60: Simplicity and power combined. Its sequencer is legendary, offering both linear and pattern-based recording. With 99 sequences and 99 tracks per sequence, all assignable to 64 MIDI channels across four outputs, it’s a MIDI wizard for those who love tight control over external gear.

MV-8000: One word: integration. This beast marries MIDI with audio, letting you handle up to 8 stereo audio tracks alongside 128 MIDI tracks. It’s like having a mini-DAW in a box, designed for the modern producer juggling beats, samples, and vocals all in one place.

Workflow and Interface

MPC60: Pure hardware vibes. You’re working with physical buttons, knobs, and a simple LCD screen. It’s tactile and straightforward, perfect for producers who love the feel of hands-on control.

MV-8000: A hybrid dream. It’s got the pads and knobs you love, plus the option to hook up a VGA monitor and mouse for graphical editing. Want velocity layers or easy drum rolls? The MV’s got you covered. It’s the best of both hardware and software worlds.

Effects and Mixing

MPC60: On-board effects? None unfortunately. This classic doesn’t have built-in processing—it’s all about raw, unfiltered sounds. Its 64-channel mixer is solid, though, giving you control over outputs and echo sends.

MV-8000: This is where the MV flexes hard. Three built-in effects processors, reverb, delay, and a mastering toolkit with multi-band compression. Plus, you can burn tracks directly to CD. It’s a one-stop shop for polished productions.

Storage and Connectivity

MPC60: Retro vibes all the way. Floppy disks are your friend here, and there’s a built-in SCSI interface for external storage. It’s basic but functional.

MV-8000: Much more forward-thinking with the inclusion of an internal hard drive. In addition, you’ve got a USB for transferring files and CD burner for physical storage. It even lets you add audio inputs and outputs through an expansion module.

The Bottom Line

The MPC60 is a classic for a reason—its hardware-focused design and timeless workflow have cemented its legacy. But if you’re looking for a more modern, cost-effective MPC alternative that handles sampling, sequencing, and effects with ease, the Roland MV-8000 is tough to beat. Whether you’re chasing that vintage sound or aiming for a streamlined setup, one of these legends will fit your vibe.

How to Buy an Akai MPC on a Budget with eBay’s No Interest Payment Option

Are you a producer dreaming of owning an Akai MPC but finding the upfront cost a bit steep? If you absolutely MUST own an MPC—you don’t have to break the bank to add this legendary drum machine to your studio. eBay’s financing option, powered by PayPal Credit, lets you spread the cost over six months with no interest, making it a budget-friendly way to score the gear you need.

Here’s how to take advantage of this option and bring your MPC home without draining your wallet.

Seller-Finance Purchasing Your MPC on eBay

Start by browsing eBay for the Akai MPC model you want. Whether it’s the MPC One, MPC Live, or another version, look for listings that include the PayPal Credit or No Interest if paid in full in 6 months label. These are the deals eligible for the financing plan. Before hitting that “Buy It Now” button, double-check the seller’s reputation. Look at their ratings, reviews, and return policy. Make sure the MPC is in good condition (or brand new, if that’s your preference) and that the seller ships to your location.

Conclusion

As you can see, the world of beat making gear extends far beyond the realm of MPCs. You can go with the sleek modernity of the MV-8000 or the lo-fi charm of the Roland SP-303. Whatever you prefer, there’s a universe of sonic possibilities waiting to be discovered. From the tactile experience of hardware or the flexibility of an iPad-based setup, there’s a cost-effective solution out there for you. The key is to identify your needs and find the tools that best fit your creative vision.

Envision life with your loved one as a seemingly endless abyss with the captivating sound of Change. Decades strong in music, the band remain soulful as ever and display their distinct sound for 2025's "Embrace". Like the power of nature, "Ocean Drops" has the ability to provoke mental and spiritual change as this band demonstrate the fluidity of life.

Prepare for your eardrum to feel the impact of deadly Hip Hop sound as Poetic Menace commands the mic like a weapon. This moment of 1st degree lyrical murder is kinda funky and available as a reissue on Dope Folks Records. If you're a die-hard crate digger and Hip Hop completist, you can get a copy of the Dope Folks test pressing here at Piano Mouth Records along with many more test pressing from that label.

The towering feeling of Broadway tunes performed Big Band style receive a transformation with the Soul persona of this duo. Even if it's your first time hearing these classic songs, Ryan Shaw & Ray Angry make it a moment to remember. Their electrifying rearrangements emphasize the vision of each song and introduce a new musical identity which brims with power and grace. Such is the case with their version of "On The Street Where You Live". What was once swinging Big Band Jazz receives a powerful injection of Soul reminiscent of Stevie Wonder, The Police and Tears For Fears.

Catch up on songs released by the un-official 3rd member of The Mobb. "The Co-Defendants Vol. 2" brings together the drama Big Noyd's songs and collaborations released over about a 20-year period. Whether or not you've heard these before, it's a nice revisit to an unmistakable sound, identity and era of NYC. Noyd and his collaborators bang with the darkest of Hip Hop beats and harsh visions of the streets. DJ Nes provides even more nostalgia below with a tape of Prodigy and Noyd's appearance on Future Flavas radio.

If music had the ability to grow like plant life, "Soul Morning" by Sofia Rubina is like the sunshine upon a garden of delights. Journey with this bright vocalist who bears her musical glow upon your eardrum. When it's time to awaken to a new day, Sofia provides a laid-back soundtrack for you to imagine your best life.

This version picks up where the original left off as an easy breezy compliment to the slow and passionate Soul of "You Are My Starship". The delightful sound of Chris Bangs' vibra-bop is bound to make you feel like you're floating on air. When paired with the timeless songwriting of Norman Connors and Michael Henderson, it's your ticket to the stars as music provides an otherworldly escape.

The funky sounds of Phill Most Chill are bound to have you sayin' lordy lordy from the rare grooves he drops in this mix. Here we get a new outlook on December 25th as this MC/DJ mines the crates for rare grooves that funk-up the holiday. 

The vast dimensions of the ocean inspire dope rhymes and funky grooves with the music of Apathy & Nebula Breeze. On "WHALERS", Apathy lets his mind spray and uses his lyrical imagination to become larger than life. A flute-driven track provides the perfect soundtrack for Apathy's visions of a waterworld and himself as the prehistoric creature who inhabits it. "Celestial Creatures Of The Night And Sea" is a fascinating journey into Library Funk songwriting inspired by the depth of the ocean. With it's light tone and breezy feel, Nebula Breeze convey a range of emotions like aquatic life, from delightful and charming to intriguing and mysterious.

Like the movement of water, Collettivo Immaginario offer serenity for your soul as musicians who vibrate positively and groove fluidly. Experience the delight of fusion with this vibrant band from Italy invite you to a wonderful world of musical imagination. Each track is like peering into an aquarium at the zoo based on the attractive arrangements and exciting moments Collettivo Immaginario present. So sit back and enjoy the exploration in the expansive and groovy journey across "Oltreoceano".

"Following the release of his debut EP "To My Pen Pal" in 2021 and a live studio session "Yufu on CINEMAPHONIC" in 2023, Yufu's eagerly anticipated first album, "Heal Me Good" has arrived. In an era increasingly influenced by digital and artificial elements, Yufu endeavors to create a warm sound that captures the heart and atmosphere of the sensual soul music from its golden age. Through ten tracks, he offers listeners a “Good Time Classic Soul” experience, aiming to evoke profound emotions towards their loved ones by using the theme of medicine and drugs as a metaphor for the healing and addictive emotions encountered in relationships." - Yufu

This is the type of Soul music that's built for your enjoyment. The type of arrangements that serve as the soundtrack for a beautiful summer day, good company and relaxation. Kick back as Ace Box Shift & Lexsoul Dancemachine create a moment to turn your frown upside down with their 2025 releases. It's over for the blues with each of these delightful songs which are outstanding in their ability to convey joy. In an upbeat and groovy fashion, each band gets down in the name of escapism to carry the torch for greats such as James Brown, Maceo & The Macks and The Fatback Band.

If you want it, come and get this offering of potent lyricism as eLZhi uses the art of rhyme in his quest for self-definition. "I Am Him" is a self-proclamation of dopeness from an elite microphone controller paired with raw beats by Khrysis. Each bar is like peering into the galaxy as eLZhi dreams, creating a vivid depiction of his mind in rhyme. Although the project is short, Jericho Jackson make it worth your while as a dynamic Hip Hop duo.

Below, producers Phennel Koliander & The Process lend their sound to the voice of eLZhi with remixes of "It Ain't Hard To Tell" and "Come & Get It".

When it's time to stand, Hip Hop provides the inspiration for you to show and prove with an enriching combination of sound. So enjoy the nutrition for your soul offered aurally by this remarkable collective of MCs, producers and a singer. Through life's journey Tom Caruna, Fresh Daily, Supastition, John Robinson, Parental, Kelly Moonshine & Boog Brown pave the way musically. As a result, the listener can stand firm with each step supported through this thought-provoking display of beats and rhymes.