To commemorate our 3 year anniversary since we launched, we’re proud to present our first mixtape compilation, The Vaults Vol. 1.  This compilation features exclusive, previously unreleased recordings from The Roots, Mos Def, Lupe Fiasco, Q-Tip, Robert Glasper, Talib Kweli, Phonte, Shad, Pharoahe Monch, Kano, Tanya Morgan and Joe Budden.  Tracklist and download instructions after the jump.

Read the rest of this entry »

One of the best shows I attended last year was Tanya Morgan @ SOB’s backed by the live band featuring members of The Cypher, led by Daru Jones on drums (he’s a beast if you’re sleeping).  Hearing cuts from Brooklynatti get the live band treatment was truly special and there’s no musicians for the job than the band assembled.  Tanya Morgan really stepped into their own last year and earned a slot in our Top 10 of 2009.  Here’s our exclusive live audio of “Alleye Need”, “On Our Way” and “So Damn Down” live from the SOB’s show.

Read the rest of this entry »

2009 was a fantastic year for music and as we head into a new decade, its time to reflect on the best releases of the previous year.  Since the focus of this site is live music and we’re discussing studio albums here, we decided to add a new, exclusive live song from each artist who made our list.  So without further ado, here is ATWL’s Top 10 Albums and Mixtapes of the year.

Read the rest of this entry »