Diamonds in the Rain

^...but it certainly doesn't hurt.

It's raining in beautiful Santa Barbara at the moment, which got me on a down-tempo vibe and thinking of London hailstorms. I must say I don't care much for UK hip-hop. To me, it often sounds out-dated and poorly produced compared to the diverse 'pioneer-experienced' American palate.

Artists such as Roots Manuva, Skinnyman, Braintax, Kaleshnakoff, Black Twang and Jehst (just to name a few) are some exceptional emcees/producers. I also really appreciate how the size and interconnectedness of the UK allows for these amazing hip-hop heads to collaborate together within their respective underground scene. A sentiment that I wish would happen more in the vast badlands of the US.

As a whole, however, I generally find UK hip-hop to be pretty weak... Or rather, not up to potential --that's potential, not standard-- considering their culture's ingenuity. I mean that as sincerely as possible knowing full-well Britain's urban scene is uncompromisingly outstanding. A full year back stateside from the UK, and still grime has managed to far surpass my listening interest over American hip-hop; something I never thought could happen. Trip-hop's now dated, but massive impact need not be mentioned. So Although I don't feel too much of Britain's hip-hop, there are still plenty of diamonds in the rain. But of all places... in Cardiff? P.E.A.C.E.