Grammy and Juno Award-winning producer/engineer David Strickland has released his debut solo album Foundation via MNRK Music, a 20 track instrumental project that seamlessly blends his hip hop-fuelled musical inspirations over the years. Boasting production credits with a who’s who of rap superstars including Drake, EPMD, The Clipse, Def Squad, Method Man, Kardinal Offishall, Saukrates, Maestro Fresh Wes and many more, Foundation arrives as a follow up to his last critically-acclaimed 2022 release Spirit of Hip Hop: Elements album, and its prior accompanying series, that celebrated, showcased and highlighted a wide range of North American rap icons alongside emerging Indigenous rappers. “This album represents the first time I did something musically that was just strictly by myself. No MCs or singers. Just me alone. Producer and engineer,” explains the Scarborough-born producer/engineer who has quietly worked behind the scenes for decades, producing, mixing and/or engineering records from the likes of Canadian urban music legends including Glenn Lewis, Ghetto Concept, Jelleestone, Choclair and k-os. “I was in NYC going through beats in the studio and I was looking at the last two albums I released and the instrumental versions, and it made me think about how guys like DJ Muggs and The Alchemist have been doing instrumental albums for years. I spoke to my A&R and VP about the idea, and then locked myself in the studio and banged out and revamped a couple beats and it just all came together.”

Strickland pays homage to his neighborhood roots on “Scarboro Forever”, and references his career sustenance on “The Journey”, but what lies at the core of the highly rhythmic, breezy and boom bap-inspired production on Foundation, is that at its core, it reminds listeners of what it takes to make a hit record – the production, which is the foundation. But the album title carries deeper layers of meaning. “Music is the foundation of any song, and I am a part of the foundation of the ‘Toronto Sound’. Any good project needs a solid foundation. And say what you want about me, but I’m a finisher. I always deliver.” Foundation delivers on all fronts, and appeals to music lovers of many stripes, as its contemporary sonic edges are rounded out nicely by its timeless classic old school musical sensibilities.

Get ready to experience the sheer force of Dom Pachino as he unveils his latest music video, “The Encore,” setting the stage for his highly anticipated album, “Survival Bible.” Renowned for his raw talent and unparalleled lyrical prowess, Dom Pachino unleashes an explosive journey from the streets and into your speakers. With intense visuals and captivating storytelling, “The Encore” offers a glimpse into the lyrical mastery that defines Dom’s signature style, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.

Fans won’t want to miss out on connecting with the mastermind behind “The Encore.” Follow Dom on Instagram and X at @realdompachino to stay updated on all the latest releases and exclusive content. Brace yourself for the journey ahead as Dom Pachino prepares to drop “Survival Bible,” a testament to his enduring legacy in the rap game. Get ready to witness the resurgence of a true hip-hop icon.

Pre-Order the new album via https://dompachino.bandcamp.com/merch/survival-bible-limited-edition-cd

After dropping his 2023 iTunes #1 EP ‘First Summer Without You’ and a string of single releases in 2024, the South Bronx, NY native Elijah The Boy readies us for summer with new heat. His newest offering “EGO” is a vibrant single that switches up the tone of his recent drops.

With a distinct blend of hip-hop, Jersey club drums, and Brazilian Phonk, the Puerto Rican lyricist flexes his powerful delivery over the alluring, rhythmic record that is intricate and aggressive all at once. Elijah explains that the production on “EGO” features heavy influence from the Bronx club scene, which undoubtedly showcases his outstanding level of sonic versatility and inventiveness.

“My new single is inspired by the hip-hop/Brazilian phonk music that I started hearing in the NY nightlife scene. I’ve always been a fan of music from different genres whether it was Latin, Afro beat, or Brazilian Phonk, and am attracted to the cadences they use and pockets they are able to find within the beat. I wanted to create a song that made people dance and feel good and forget about the problems with catchy bars and word play that was fun. One day I was in the studio with my producer Navi Beats and my Engineer Mixed By Auden, and we were brainstorming ideas. I thought of blending Brazilian Phonk with my usual sound. We ended up making this fun, catchy braggadocious record that in the end was only right to titles it ‘EGO’” – Elijah The Boy