Vinnie Paz Premieres First Music Video from Solo Debut, Season of the Assassin, due out June 22 Summer In-Stores and Tour Dates
Release Date:
June 22, 2010
With a career that has spanned almost two decades, co-founding the legendary Jedi Mind Tricks as well as East Coast indie supergroup Army of the Pharaohs, underground MC Vinnie Paz is venturing out on his own with a solo debut, Season of the Assassin, due June 22nd on Enemy Soil.
Aside from being in true lyrical form on Season of the Assassin, Vin has enlisted the help of a virtual who’s who of artists and producers. Emcee’s such as Beanie Sigel, Clipse, Freeway, Paul Wall, ILL Bill, and R.A. the Rugged Man all lend verses to Paz’s solo debut. Production credits go to such legendary beatmakers as, DJ Muggs (Cypress Hill/Soul Assassins), Madlib, Lord Finesse (D.I.T.C.), Da Beatminerz, Lil’ Fame (M.O.P.), MoSS, 4th Disciple (Wu-Tang), Bronze Nazareth (Wu-Tang), JMT’s own DJ Kwestion, Shuko and more.
Vinnie unleashed the first video, “Keep Movin’ On” featuring Shara Worden, this morning on his official website, www.jmthiphop.com. The video is directed by Joe Frantz, producer and cinematographer behind Jackass and MTV’s Viva La Bam, and features cameos by Philadelphia icon Tony Luke Jr (of “The Nail” and “Invincible”) and Scott Vogel (lead singer of hardcore band Terror).
Vinnie will join Jedi Mind Tricks on the Rock the Bells tour this summer and will sign autographs at three in-stores during the week of release. Season of the Assassin is available for pre-order on iTunes now.
Jedi Mind Tricks at Rock the Bells Aug 21 – NOS Events Center, San Bernardino, CA Aug 22 – Shoreline Amphitheatre, San Francisco, CA Aug 28 – Governor’s Island, New York, NY Aug 29 – Merriweather Post Pavillion, Washington, DC
Vinnie Paz In-Store Dates Tuesday June 22nd – FYE Broad St. – Philadelphia, PA @ 6:30pm Wednesday June 23rd – Fat Beats NYC store – New York, NY @ 7pm Thursday June 24th – Newbury Comics Newbury St. – Boston, MA @ 7pm
Jedi Mind Tricks Present Army of the Pharaohs featuring Vinnie Paz, Outerspace, Doap Nixon, King Syze, Des Devious, Demoz, and more
Jedi Mind Tricks MC Vinne Paz has pulled together yet another Army of the Pharaohs album after a nearly three year hiatus. The collective now features Vinnie Paz & Jus Allah (Jedi Mind Tricks), Planetary & Crypt The Warchild (Outerspace), Apathy, Reef The Lost Cauze, Esoteric, Doap Nixon, King Magnetic, Des Devious, Block McCloud, Celph Titled, Demoz, King Syze, and more on an album titled Jedi Mind Tricks Presents… Army of the Pharaohs: The Unholy Terror.
Jedi Mind Tricks will hit the road later this month for a 21-date tour across North America.
JEDI MIND TRICKS PRODUCER STOUPE DROPS NEW TRACK “TRANSITION OF POWER” FEAT. M.O.P. OFF FORTHCOMING RELEASE “DECALOGUE”
For over a decade Stoupe has been creating sonic backdrops for Vinnie Paz’s unique brand of hardcore lyricism.
Now, Stoupe steps out on his own with “Decalogue,” the long- awaited producer album from one of underground hip-hop’s best producers. Pairing up with the upper echelon of indie emcees from across the hip-hop spectrum, such as Slaine (La Coka Nostra M.O.P., Saigon, Joell Ortiz, Outerspace, Jus Allah, Block McCloud, the Army of the Pharaohs fam (Des Devious, Demoz, King Magnetic, Reef The Lost Cauze) & more, Stoupe truly expands the scope of indie hip-hop with this album. True fans of the underground sound stand up for this one!
Check out the new single, “Transition of Power” Feat. M.O.P. Now!!!
Legendary Jedi Mind Tricks producer and beat brainchild Stoupe The Enemy of Mankind preps the March 31st release of his debut solo release: “Decalogue.” For over a decade, and through 6 hit underground albums, Stoupe has been creating sonic backdrops for Vinnie Paz’s unique brand of hardcore lyricism.
Now, Stoupe steps out on his own with “Decalogue,” a modern masterpiece. Crafted with an exacting eye towards maintaining the balance that has made his production style instantly recognizable the world over (and has inspired an entire sub-genre of imitators and impersonators), Decalogue is the long-awaited producer album from one of underground hip-hop’s best. Pairing up with the upper echelon of indie emcees from across the hip-hop spectrum, such as Slaine (La Coka Nostra), M.O.P., Saigon, Joell Ortiz, Outerspace, the Army of the Pharaohs fam & more, Stoupe truly expands the scope of indie hip-hop with this album. True fans of the underground sound stand up for this one!
Check out the first single “Allison James Feat. Slaine” NOW!!!
Jedi Mind Tricks Presents… Stoupe “Decalogue” In Stores March 31st, 2009 Babygrande Records
MVRemix: Do you remember the first song you wrote?
Vinnie Paz: I’ve been writing rhymes for awhile. I don’t remember the first actual song. The first material that I let out to the public was through the first incarnation of JMT (Jedi Mind Tricks) called Soulcraft. We handed out our little demo tapes around Philly. That was 1992 – ‘93, I think.
MVRemix: Tell me about the album, “A History Of Violence.” How did the title come about?
Vinnie Paz: Explaining titles sort of diminishes them. I think people should be free to take their own meaning from. It’s kind of a statement about American imperialism.
MVRemix: Did you see the film?
Vinnie Paz: Yeah. It’s a dope movie. I like David Cronenberg’s work.
MVRemix: How long did the record take to record and how planned was it – ie did you set out with a track listing and stick to it or record a number of songs and chose a select amount leaving the rest on the “cutting room floor”?
Vinnie Paz: We usually work the same way each time out. It takes Stoupe longer to do his part, so he’s usually working on beats for 6 months to a year before I record. Before we cut vocals, we get together and listen to beats and talk about which beats we think fit the vibe of the record we’re trying to make. We’ve always been the type of group to make albums, instead of singles, so we’re always looking for a collection of songs that fit a vibe.
MVRemix: Any videos in the works?
Vinnie Paz: We have our DVD, “Divine Fire,” coming out in early 2009. We spent a good year putting that together. We’re real proud of that. It gives our fans a chance to go behind the scenes of our career from ’96 until now.
MVRemix: Which song on “A History Of Violence” took you the longest to complete?
Vinnie Paz: “Death Messiah” took longer. Concept joints usually take me longer to write.
MVRemix: Which was completed in the shortest time?
Vinnie Paz: This is strange, because I usually do the concept songs last, but I wrote “Trail of Lies” the quickest. That was an idea that was floating in my head for awhile, so I knocked that out as soon as we got started.
MVRemix: You’ve been rapping now for quite some time, how has your career changed as time has gone on?
Vinnie Paz: I’ve just tried to remain consistent. A lot of groups have disappeared from when Stoupe and I came into the game in the 90’s. We’re real fortunate to still be doing this for a living, but we’ve always approached our careers from a different mindset. We never set out to be a flash in the pan type group. We set out to carve out a niche for ourselves and that’s what we’ve done. We’ve been fortunate to find a big enough fan base to support what we do.
MVRemix: Do you pay attention to indie Hip Hop or do you typically listen to another genre of music and simply compose indie material?
Vinnie Paz: I don’t pay attention as much as I once did. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a fan of music in general. I’m probably one of the last people that still buys CDs. There’s just a real glut of bad music out there these days whether you’re talking indie rap or any other genre. The internet is a blessing and a curse. It gives talented people a forum but it also gives a lot of untalented people a forum.
MVRemix: What are your thoughts on Barack Obama being the next president?
Vinnie Paz: I’m happy, man. Hopefully, he does bring the change we desperately need. We’ll see.
MVRemix: America, and the rest of the world have been heavily publicized and “informed” that we are heading into a recession. As an artist, what does this mean for your life, plans and the product you try to sell?
Vinnie Paz: It’s tough on everyone. We’ve always run our business with our fans in mind. We try to price our show tickets and merchandise fairly. Some things we have more control over than others. We’re going to try to do more of our own ticketing for future tours to keep those prices down. We don’t like seeing our fans taken advantage of. That’s why the music business is where it is… too many years of taking advantage of fans.
MVRemix: What’s the biggest misconception people have of you?
Vinnie Paz: I’m not always angry.
MVRemix: Out of your vast discography, which songs are you most proud of and why?
Vinnie Paz: I think more in terms of albums than songs. Violent by Design was a milestone and a turning point for us, but Servants in Heaven, Kings in Hell is probably our most complete record.
MVRemix: In a sentence or less, what do you do to relax?
Vinnie Paz: I watch boxing. I just got back from tour, so I’m catching up on the Sixers now too.
MVRemix: Have fun with this one, a la “Fight Club” – “If you could fight any celebrity, who would you fight”?
Vinnie Paz: Kanye [West], maybe Usher.
MVRemix: Would you win either of them?
Vinnie Paz: Yep.
MVRemix: What next do we have to look forward to from you?
Vinnie Paz: We’re about to get in the studio and work on AOTP 3. We also have our DVD, “Divine Fire,” coming out in January.
INDIE SENSATION JEDI MIND TRICKS UNVEIL 1ST SINGLE & ALBUM COVER FOR THEIR FORTHCOMING LP “A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE”–IN STORES NOVEMBER 11th
Over the past 12+ years, the name Jedi Mind Tricks has become synonymous with raw, gritty underground hip-hop. With November 11th’s 6th studio release, “A History of Violence,” Vinnie Paz, beat maestro Stoupe and long estranged “partner in rhyme” Jus Allah reunite, rekindling the spirit of their last collaborative full length, 1998’s renowned classic “Violent By Design.” A mature masterpiece, Jedi’s signature style continues to evolve as the group moves self-assuredly into their second decade as undisputed leaders within the independent hip-hop landscape; their unique sound, and the movement that it has spawned, is responsible for no less than the genesis of an entire sub-genre of music.
And now Jedi Mind Tricks has returned with a renewed vigor. With the first single, “Monolith,” Stoupe laces sultry vocals upon a head-nodding drum line, setting the backdrop for Vinnie’s politically and socially incendiary lyrical delivery (political sentiment also served to inspire the album title and accompanying cover imagery).
And for the first time in years, the duo’s inimitable sound is rounded out by the fiery vocals of erstwhile member Jus Allah. Re-united and reconstituted, this is the Jedi Mind Tricks that both captivated a generation and paved the way for a flourishing sub-culture of hardcore independent hip-hop.
Be sure to catch Jedi on their “A History of Violence” Fall Tour (dates below) and don’t forget to check out “Divine Fire: The Story of Jedi Mind Tricks” DVD and limited edition varsity jacket, available exclusively through Ihiphop.com.
“A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE” TOUR DATES:
10/24/08 Cambridge, MA Middle East 10/25/08 Portland, ME TBA 10/26/08 South Burlington, VT Higher Ground 10/28/08 Chicago, IL Subterranean 10/30/08 Englewood, CO Gothic Theatre 10/31/08 Boulder, CO Fox Theatre 11/03/08 Las Vegas, NV Jillian’s 11/05/08 Santa Cruz, CA The Catalyst 11/06/08 San Francisco, CA Slim’s 11/07/08 Los Angeles, CA Henry Fonda Theatre 11/08/08 San Diego, CA Canes Bar & Grill 11/09/08 Tempe, AZ Clubhouse Music Venue 11/11/08 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theater 11/13/08 San Antonio, TX TBA 11/14/08 Austin, TX Emo’s 11/15/08 New Orleans, LA The Parish @ House of Blues 11/17/08 Orlando, FL The Social 11/20/08 Carrboro, NC Cat’s Cradle 11/21/08 Wilmington, NC The Soapbox 11/23/08 Washington, DC 9:30 Club 11/24/08 Allentown, PA Crocodile Rock 11/25/08 New York, NY The Blender Theatre @ Gramercy 11/26/08 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero Theater
Jedi Mind Tricks “A History of Violence” In Stores November 11th Babygrande Records
VINNIE PAZ (JEDI MIND TRICKS) & OUTERSPACE SPEAK ON “GOD’S FURY” (IN STORES SEPTEMBER 30TH)–PART 2 (VIDEO)
In part 2 of the multi-part series exploring the genesis of Outerspace’s “God’s Fury,” executive producer Vinnie Paz, legendary MC of seminal underground phenomenon Jedi Mind Tricks, and Planetary & Crypt the Warchild of Outerspace clue us in to what to expect in terms of features and producers.
Elaborating on their all-star indie lineup that includes guest spots from Vinnie Paz himself, Reef The Lost Cauze, King Magnetic, King Syze, Des Devious, Doap Nixon, Lawrence Arnell, Psycho Realm (Cynic & Sick Jacken) & more, as well as the core stable of producers (R.I.P. Clockwork), loyalists of that raw boom bap can expect another prized offering from Outerspace with September 30th’s “God’s Fury.”
JEDI MIND TRICKS’ VINNIE PAZ SPEAKS ON DOAP NIXON’S “SOUR DIESEL”–ALBUM IN STORES JULY 22nd
Vinnie Paz, emcee and figurehead of the legendary underground group Jedi Mind Tricks, speaks candidly about fellow Army of the Pharaohs’ member Doap Nixon, whose solo debut, “Sour Diesel,” streets July 22nd and was executive produced by Paz himself.
Paz waxes philosophical regarding the current state of hip-hop, what it means to be a “street artist” these days, how Doap’s release is reminiscent of such classics as mid nineties Mobb Deep, why Paz lent the Jedi Mind Tricks’ brand to this release, how he got involved in the creative process for “Sour Diesel” & much more.
Jedi Mind Tricks and Babygrande Records are pleased to announce an unprecedented rapid fire 2008 release schedule guaranteed to satisfy even the most hardcore JMT/AOTP fans:
*The summer release of the first ever Jedi Mind Tricks DVD: “Divine Fire: The Story of Jedi Mind Tricks”
*The July 22nd release of Jedi Mind Tricks Presents: Doap Nixon “Sour Diesel”
*The August 5th release of Jedi Mind Tricks Presents: King Syze “The Labor Union”
*The September 30th release of Jedi Mind Tricks Presents: Outerspace “God’s Fury”
*The October 14th release of Jedi Mind Tricks’ sixth album “A History of Violence”
THE DVD
With a 12+ year career under their belt and a continually growing rabid fan base, the history of Jedi Mind Tricks has never been officially documented…until now. This summer, “Divine Fire: The Story of Jedi Mind Tricks DVD,” promises an insightful excursion into the roots of an underground empire. And look out for a special limited edition commemorative package encompassing the DVD and much more to be announced. And it won’t be available at retail anywhere…check for updates on this at www.jedi-mind-tricks.com because we’ll be bringing this one directly to you.
This fall also sees the release of the highly anticipated sixth LP from Jedi Mind Tricks, “A History of Violence” on October 14th, 2008. Stay tuned for more…
THE JEDI MIND TRICKS/ARMY OF THE PHARAOHS AFFILIATES’ PROJECTS:
Doap Nixon: “Sour Diesel” – July 22nd King Syze: “The Labor Union” – August 5th Outerspace: “God’s Fury” – September 30
With all three records executive produced by Vinnie Paz himself, these LP’s carry the unique sonic stamp of the Jedi Mind Tricks’ experience and reflect Jedi’s continual commitment to the cultivation of true, hardcore hip-hop. Like the releases from the Vinnie Paz’ anchored supergroup Army of the Pharaohs (“Torture Papers” and late ‘07’s “Ritual of Battle”), these records are both a reflection of and homage to the “hardcore, that real raw type ish” pioneered by none other than JMT.
First up is July 22nd’s debut from buzzing AOTP core member Doap Nixon: Jedi Mind Tricks presents… Doap Nixon: “Sour Diesel”
A long time mainstay in the thriving Philly independent hip-hop scene, Doap Nixon is best known for his breakout performance on Army of the Pharaohs’ underground smash Ritual of Battle. Amidst a groundswell of anticipation, Doap unveils his debut LP, “Sour Diesel,” which features guest appearances from the core AOTP clique, including Vinnie Paz (of Jedi Mind Tricks), Outerspace, King Syze, King Magnetic, Reef The Lost Cauze & more as well as production from some of independent hip-hop’s most renowned and respected producers including Apathy, Snowgoons, Stu Bangas, Undefined & many more.
The first track, “The Wait Is Over,” feat. Reef The Lost Cauze & Vinnie Paz can EXCLUSIVELY be found here: www.crackspace.com/doapnixon
Be sure to SHOW YOUR SUPPORT! Pick up and embed that widget from Doap’s CrackSpace page while you’re checking out the new single.
Jedi Mind Tricks presents… King Syze: “The Labor Union” In stores August 5th
A core member of AOTP, King Syze crashed the scene with 2006’s debut “Syzemology.” On August 5th, along with the widespread re-release of “Syzemology,” comes Syze’s sophomore offering “The Labor Union.” Featuring appearances from the AOTP clique including Vinnie Paz, ILL Bill, Apathy, Planetary & Crypt of Outerspace, Reef The Lost Cauze, King Magnetic & more, the Pharaohs once again unite for this highly anticipated solo gem.
Jedi Mind Tricks presents… Outerspace: “God’s Fury” In stores September 30th, 2008
After countless national tours with Jedi Mind Tricks and two critically and commercially well received solo LP’s (2004’s “Blood & Ashes” and 2006’s “Blood Brothers”), Outerspace return with the Vinnie Paz executive produced third LP “God’s Fury” on September 30th.
“We have worked with Jedi Mind Tricks since 2002 and achieved incredible success together. I am thrilled that we are continuing this partnership and look forward to even greater success. Jedi Mind Tricks has continually impressed me with their brilliant music and now the music of the collective they have built from scratch. The DVD they have created [Divine Fire] is one of the best musician documentaries I have ever seen and is a must-buy collector’s item for any of their fans,” says Babygrande CEO Chuck Wilson.
