Drake, Tyga and Lil' Wayne's Video for "The Motto"

Drake, Tyga and Wayne shoot a video for The Motto, even though the track didn't even make the cut for Drake's sophomore success Take Care. The video is shot in the Bay Area region of San Fran, as the trio look to pay tribute to the late Mac Dre. As a massive Mac Dre fan myself, appearances from Bay Area greats like E:40 and Mistah F.A.B, as well as a short intro by Mac Dre's mother are nice touches in paying homage to one of the dopest rappers to ever grace the mic. Too back they couldn't get an appearance from Nickatina though... Check it below.

The Weeknd- Echoes of Silence

The Weeknd treats us all yet again with a nasty new mixtape titled Echoes of Silence. This much anticipated release has had ovoxo fans salivating for a while now, and Abel didn't disappoint one bit. He begins the more vocally present third of a confirmed trio of mixtapes, with a cover of Dirty Diana that would have put a grin on the late MJ's face fo show. Download the sick mixtape, for free as usual at http://the-weeknd.com/ and check the cover of DD below. 

Arcade Fire

Arcade fire decided to get Vincent Morisset to direct separate versions of a long awaited video for the track Sprawl II. Morisset delivers a trippy-ass set of videos that offer an interesting path to follow; as various masked members of Arcade Fire prance around the suburbs.

You can check the interactive version here while a less demanding version is available below. 

Crosbo Out Indefinitely Again

Sid the Kid looks to be out yet again with lingering 'concussion-like symptoms', after what was clearly an innocent play with Boston's David Krejci. This has to be an extremely concerning turn of events, after what looked to be a spectacular comeback from the leagues best player. In addition to this, you can throw an all-star line of superstars suffering from post-concussion symptoms together with; Claude Giroux-Sidney Crosby-Mike Richards, and Marc Staal and Chris Pronger on D.

The age old question of how to eliminate these types of injuries without softening the game we love, will likely be addressed throughout the remainder of a season that might see these 5 superstars play very little to no hockey at all. Additionally, eye-opening incidents like Savard's in Boston (where his recovery was arguably rushed), likely are the reason why such concern and time will be put into the recovery of these players. In Crosby's case, if it took 11 months for him to overcome these symptoms in the first case, how long will it take now? It was evident the the Pens, as an organization put as much time and effort into his return as possible, and a setback like this is makes it seem like all that work was for nothing. Despite this, it is still difficult to gauge, as it always is, just how long Crosby will be out; as it could be a few weeks, to a another possible 11 month period of Crosby-less NHL hockey.

Crosby's case may have just have proven that it doesn't really matter how much time and effort you put into your recovery, as it can all be torn down in front of your face, just 8 games into your return. How will Crosby be in his second high profile post concussion return? Is he going to play the same way he did in his previous return, or will he have to redefine his game in order to preserve his NHL career (like my boy Paul Kariya)? Hockey fans now have to come the the realization that we may never see the same Crosby that we have been blessed with, in his short 7 year NHL career. Hopefully, that's not the case...

Sad news for hockey.

Green

Omari Shakir

Check ovoxo's Omari Shakir's latest track titled Nonchalant. Unlike, his ridiculous display of technical talent and ability on his previous track titled Different, Shakir offers a more smoked out and laid back theme to his latest effort. Peep it below.

Tiger's Back

Sunday afternoon, Tiger relished in victory, taking home his 5th Chevron World Challenge, ending a winless drought that lasted 749 days. After going 26 tournaments and over 2 years without a victory, Tiger without a doubt looked like the 'Tiger of old', sinking key puts on the 17th and 18th; as he was faced with a 1 stroke deficit to Zack Johnson with 2 holes to go. He finished with a clutch final round score of -3 (69), proving that the worlds greatest ever golfer may in fact have a few more majors left in the tank. The real question remains; can he still reach Jack's record of 18 major championships?

At 35 year-old, Tiger Woods holds 14 major victories and won his last at 33 years of age. Jack Nicklaus won his 15th major at 38, before winning 3 majors in a 2 year span between the ages of 39 and 40 (won his 18th and final major at 46 years-old). It is evident that there is still a chance for Tiger, especially if he squeezes out a few more performances like this, but do consider that the modern field of golfers is much more broad and equal in terms of talent, than it was in the Nicklaus era.

With all of the shit Tiger has gone through within the past 2 years, though self-inflicted; I can't help but root for the athlete that generally inspired me to become the avid golfer I am today. Tiger's golf moments will undoubtedly be remembered throughout the history of golf; whether it be the 1997 Masters victory that broke the colour barrier in the game, or the ridiculous chip in on the 16th at the 2006 Masters that made people sick! On an emotional level, how about the moment that had everyone going; his victory at the 2006 British Open, shortly after the death of his best friend and Father, Earl. Moments like these have inspired a generation of young golfers and has grown the game to what it would have never ever been, without Tiger Woods. A 19th major victory would prove to be a remarkable accomplishment as Tiger would be able to grasp a part of history that in my eyes will be and rightfully should be, his mark on the golfing world. 

A$AP Freestyle

A$AP Rocky and his crew go off on a freestyle for "Selector"; as they show every hater out there just why A$AP Rocky recently signed a $3 million start up deal with Polo Ground Music (Sony/RCA). A large portion of the loot from that deal was to jump-start a record label, as this freestyle shows the obvious talent that fans can expect from A$AP's crew.

Khat- Mobbin

In addition to the occupying the most addicting tumblr on the net; Khat has managed to release yet again another dope mixtape. I've been pumpin Mobbin for weeks now, and like his previous endeavours (Traphouse and Vodoo Child), the videos for the tracks, are equaling as entertaining. Download all three of his maxtapes on his tumblr http://iwantkhat.com/. 

Check some of the videos below:

ASAP Rocky: "Demons" Video

Donjai directs Asap Rocky's latest endeavour for the track Demons, off of his highly regarded mixtape, Live, Love, A$AP. The video consists of some murky footage of A$AP Rocky and his crew loungin' in Harlem; to go along with the laid back, yet deep nature of the track. 

Download the Harlem rapper's Live, Love, A$AP mixtape here.

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NBA: Owners and Players Reach Tentative Agreement

Trade Association Executive Director Billy Hunter, left, and NBA Commissioner David Stern, right

Early Saturday morning, after a 149-day lockout, as well as a 15 hour negotiation that began noon Friday; the players and the owners look to have reached a tentative 'handshake' agreement to end this whole saga. 

Trade Association executive director Billy Hunter explained, "We thought it was in both of our best interests to try to reach a resolution and save the game." Commissioner David Stern then went on to explain, "We've reached a tentative understanding that is subject to a variety of approvals and very complex machinations, but we're optimistic that will all come to a pass and that the NBA season will begin Dec. 25." 

This would set out the groundwork for a 66-game season, where training camps would open up around Dec. 9. For there to be a season, it was essential for it to begin by Christmas day; as this season's triple header features an NBA Finals rematch between Dallas and Miami, as well as a mouth-watering Chicago and my boy Rose at Los Angeles, against Kobe and the Lakers. 

Though this comes as unexpected but encouraging news, a majority on each side of the parties is needed to approve this tentative agreement. President of the Players Association, Derrick Fisher simply put, "We're confident that once we present it, that they will support it. For us, we'll stick with the understanding that we can't get into too many details," in regards to the majority needed by the players side. 

Hopefully I can finally sleep at night, knowing that I will once again be straight up smitten', when Lebron fails yet again. But on the real, how bad are the Raps going to be this year now? Colangelo better have something up his sleeve. 

The Weeknd: "The Knowing" Video

The Weeknd drops an unorthodox and intense video for the track The Knowing, off of his sophomore effort, Thursday. Directed by Mikael Colombu (shot in 2D JANKYVISION with Nikon 95cm film), the video features an incredibly trippy set of visuals, as it depicts some pretty heavy shit going down on 'Planet Ethio X in the year 16311', between Abel, a chick (model Geena Rocero) and a group of others. Further, this is the first of The Weeknd's videos that is confirmed to be legit by the man himself, who tweeted the video late Thursday night.

Check the video below:

Crosby's Return

Sidney Crosby made a storybook return to the NHL Monday evening; with a dazzling 2 goals and 2 assists, to lead the Pens past the Islanders 5-0. It had been over 10 months since fans had witnessed the most dominant player in the NHL play a game, and it was evident in his first shift back, that Sid the Kid hadn't missed a beat. He scored a nasty backhand within the first five minutes of the game, and didn't let up collecting 2 more assists and a final third period goal. Crosby accomplished all of this, only inking about 15 minutes of ice-time.

People were beginning to wonder what kind of Crosby would return to the lineup, but after his first game back, it is evident that the leagues best player is in as fine of form as anyone could imagine. With that said, the Pens look to be the most terrifying team out there now, as their big 3; Crosby, Malkin and Staal are all healthy. Monday's game marked only the third time in the past 103 games that the trio had played together. In 333 games together, the Pens have gone 197-109-27.... A scary stat for any other NHL team.

Highlights:

Big Boi Animated

Fleet Foxes- "The Shrine/An Argument" Video

Fleet Foxes drop a video for probably the best cut off of their sophomore album, Helplessness Blues titled, The Shrine/An Argument. Additionally, the video was directed by frontman Robin Pecknold's brother; as Sean Pecknold delivers a pretty outlandish piece, complete with great artwork and extremely trippy animations. 

Check the video:

Real Estate- "It's Real" Video

New Jersey indie-rock up and comers, Real Estate recently released a video for the track It's Real off of their sophomore LP titled, Days. It's Real, is without a doubt one of their best efforts so far; as the band treats any dog-lover to a pretty amusing video, featuring a dozen or so canine friends throughout.

Check it:

United signs 5 year-old City Fan

United snapped up a 5 year-old City fan by the name of Charlie Jackson this week, whom they have been scouting since the age of 3 (fuckin ridiculous I know, but that's footy). It is obvious the extreme talent this nipper has, but I hate the fact that these kids are signed so damn young; take Dutch club VVV- Venlo for instance, who signed a one-year old back in April. Outside of this, I love this story, because anything to throw any kind of salt in the wounds of City fans, brings a smile to my face to say the least. Charlie Jackson's father simply put: "His idols are Joe Hart and Mario Balotelli and at first glance he was mortified at training with United. He didn't want to go." If his family were that big of City supporters, believe me this kid wouldn't be wearing red. #Champ19ns.

Hopefully in about the year 2025, he can shove it up City's ass, for not giving him a good enough look at the age of 5. Check this kids crazy skills below.

Omari Shakir

The Weeknd and Drake's OVOXO introduces Omari Shakir to their die-hard following, with the two tracks Different and Like a Book. No word on when to expect a full-out mixtape from Shakir, but expect him to follow the same route of a free download, like his boy Abel Tesfaye. Can't wait to hear what's next from this dude; as these two tracks, especially Different are straight fire.

Check Different and Like a Book:

NO NBA

Monday afternoon, the National Basketball Players Association simply explained that the collective bargaining process had completely broken down; thus the imminent reality that there will be no NBA season for 2011-2012, has become much more evident.

There are a series of aspects of the new CBA to consider when trying to understand this whole mess, but here are the main arguments as to why the players said fuck off:
- In the last CBA, players received 57% of Basketball Related-Income (BRI), and the owners 43%. The current offer from the owners was a 50-50 split of BRI.
- Previously, in regards to contract length, it was six years for players with Bird rights (the ability for a club to sign its own free agent for more money and more years than other clubs) and five years for other players. The current negotiations offered by the owners was five years for players with bird rights and four years for other players.
- In terms of annual raises, the last CBA offered a 10.5% increase for players with Bird rights and 8% for other players; as only 6.5% for players with Bird rights and 3.5% for other players was offered by the owners in their current negotiations.

Though to most, it seems like both sides are incredibly greedy; it is evident that the division of BRI, maximum length of player contracts and annual raises tend to be the 3 major issues, separating the two parties. With that said, the owners are clearly trying to make a massive leap in negotiations, in comparison to the last CBA. Further, after these last series of negotiations, it is clear that the players have chosen the route of litigation over negotiations to determine the next steps for the NBA's return. Welcome the courts... just not the basketball courts unfortunately.

Check the video (ESPN business analyst Andrew Brandt):

Joe Paterno- Fired

After a career that saw Paterno make many outstanding and adequate decisions thoughout his tenure as Penn State's Head Coach, Paterno clearly made his worst career decision regarding a non-football related issue concerning his former assitant coordinator, Jerry Sandusky. For the first time in a half a century, the most winningest coach in U.S. major college football history wll not be leading Penn State out of the tunnel for their game against Nebraska on Saturday.

Paterno's former assistant coordinator Jerry Sandusky, has been charged with at least 7 counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse; eight counts of corruption of minors, eight counts of endangering the welfare of a child, seven counts of indecent assault, in addition to other offenses. Also under indictment is Mike McQueary, then a graduate assistant at Penn State, who in 2002, walked in on Sandusky having anal intercourse with a ten-year-old boy. McQueary then reported the incident to Paterno, who then informed Tim Curely (Athletic Director), and Gary Schultz (Senior Vice-President Of Finance); where ultimately the only action taken against Sandusky was to not bring children from Sandusky's children's charity, Second Mile to the university. This action was also approved by school president Graham Spanier, who was also relieved of his duties alongside Paterno.

With that said, it is easy to see that the Board of Directors had their hands tied and needed to take action against Parterno and Spanier; despite their long-standing relationship and popularity at the university. After the news of Paterno's firing, thousands of angry Penn State students rallied around the football field and downtown streets, semi-rioting and flipping TV vans over; in hopes of Paterno's reinstatement. No matter how high someone is regarded in a community, there is no way to excuse the fact that Paterno was aware of the fact that Sandusky molested/raped a child, and did nothing about it. Additionally, as the school president Graham Spanier, in no way can excuse the fact that he turned a blind eye to this matter and did not notify the police, as he was the final person who the information was relayed to. The most fucked up thing about this is the fact that Mike McQueary is still employed as an assistant at Penn State for their upcoming game against Nebraska on Saturday? Wait... how the fuck does the guy who "walked in" on the whole matter and didn't go to the police, still have a job?

There are few explanations that might be able to explain that matter, as it is bound to be debated throughout Pennsylvania as their cult hero, Paterno has been 'canned' because of what this guy saw. Consider the fact that because he has been the most forthcoming to the Grand Jury, McQueary can present a different kind of nightmare for the university PR team. If fired, he can easily spill his guts to the media, as the fact that he is still employed by Penn State would prohibit him to. Additionally the reason might be because, under the Pennsylvania's Whistleblower's Law; it prohibits public employees from having their jobs threatened following a 'good-faith report' or wrongdoing. No matter how you look at it, McQueary is highly unlikely to be employed past the end of the season.

This is without a doubt going to be one of the most highly publicized stories in sports for many years, as these kinds of despicable acts, rightfully so gets the blood flowing of almost any sane and normal person, no matter where you are from. Anyone who aids the act of a child molester and enables them to carry on with these horrific acts, should without a doubt be punished, in my eye. The public uproar in the Penn State community makes me sick; as most people outside of the university seem to think the idea of fighting for Paterno's job a ridiculous one to say the least. The question now is, will Paterno's legacy be tainted because of his role as an 'enabler'... That's a certainty. 

Lana Del Rey Performs Her Latest 2 Tracks

Monday night, after her Paris debut, footage of Lana performing the fantastic, though outlandishly seductive track, titled Born 2 Die began to surface the internet. Additionally, she played another new track in China Doll during her show at Nouveau Casino in Paris. Expect her full length LP sometime in early 2012.

Check the footage.

Panyee FC (short film)

If this isn't an inspirational footy story, I don't know what is... This short film is based on a true story; where in 1986, a football team from a tiny island in the south of Thailand, called Koh Panyee (a floating village, in the middle of the sea without an inch of soil), created a floating surface in order to play football. The passion and commitment that these kids displayed, earned them quite the folktale in Koh Panyee, inspiring much more football to be played, in future years. As of 2011, Panyee FC is now regarded as one of the most successful and influential youth soccer clubs in all of Southern Thailand.

Check the short film.

Take Care (Leak)

Take Care has officially leaked; shortly after Drake stopped by Toronto's Flow 95.5 Sunday night, and premiered the track Crew Love featuring fellow Toronto native The Weeknd. In regards to Drizzy's album leaking, he tweeted late sunday night; "I am not sure if the album leaked. But if it did thank god it doesn't happen a month early anymore." Followed by "Listen, enjoy it, buy it if you like it... and take care until next time."

The intro track is straight fire, titled Over My Dead Body, in addition to a stacked lineup; featuring the likes of Lil' Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, The Weeknd, Rihanna, and Stevie Wonder. Download Take Care here.

Bomb track (Crew Love- ft. The Weeknd):

Over My Dead Body:

Leafs Top of the NHL

No, you're not drunk, the Leafs are at the top of the NHL standings with their sparkling 9-3-1 start to the season. Though the Leafs are on fire, I've been reluctant to truly embrace their winning ways; as it wouldn't be the first time that I've been fooled by a great start, only to be disappointed by a series of horrendous losing streaks. Desptie this, for the first time in 7 years, the Leafs look to have a squad that could lead them to that ever so coveted playoff spot, that most Leaf fans would be more than happy with.  But, I digress. Though they do top the league, by no means do I expect them to stay at the top. The Leafs may appear to be a playoff team now, but by no means does 13 games establish you as a contender in the NHL. Their record after 25 games should better aid in understanding what kind of team to expect through a full 82 game schedule; as the Leafs have been blessed with one of the easiest schedules to begin the season. Nonetheless, I have witnessed some of the most exciting hockey to watch by the Leafs in a while; as their stunning speed and endless goalscoring has been a beautiful thing to watch.

With that said, the Leafs continued their winning ways, edging out a shaky Columbus side 4-1; as they took advantage of yet another struggling goaltender in Steve Mason. Rookie Ben Scrivens led the charge as he earned a win in his NHL debut; stopping 38 out of 39 shots. Clarke MaCarthur also chipped in with two goals, as it seems the Grabo/MaC/Kuli line is providing the secondary scoring necessary to be successful. Goals from Crabb and Liles helped seal the victory, while Kessel stays at the top of the NHL in points, collecting an assist on the Liles goal.

On another note, in addition to Kessel receiving the NHL's player of the month accolade, Joe Colborne of the Marlies earned himself the same distinction in the AHL; as he has collected 8 goals and 8 assists in 9 games, thus far.

Leafs are lookin' nasty. 

Amy Winehouse and Nas' 2008 Unreleased Collab

Wednesday night, Hot 97 premiered a bittersweet unreleased track by Amy Winehouse and good friend Nas, titled Like Smoke. The dope retro-soul vibe embodies everything you would expect in a duet by two of the musical greats of my generation. Like Smoke is to be the lead single off of the album Lioness: Hidden Treasures, which is a collection of songs recorded prior to Amy's tragic death. 

Check the track:

ASAP Rocky's "Live, Love, A$AP"

23 year-old Harlem native, ASAP Rocky is blowin' up after signing his recent $3 million deal with Sony/RCA subdivision Polo Grounds Music; with $1.7 million for solo purposes, and the other $1.3 million to fund his group label A$AP Worldwide. To throw that in perspective, when everyone was wildin' out about Drake's YM deal, it was reported that he received a $2 million advance; making ASAP's whopping $3 million, something to keep your eyes and ears ready for. Check his latest mixtape Live, Love, A$AP and download it here.

ASAP Rocky's video for Peso:

Drake ft. Weezy- "The Motto"

Drake collaborates with Wayne as he drops yet another track called The Motto, off of his forthcoming sophomore album titled Take Care. The album is set to drop November 15, but Drizzy has already released 5 tracks; chill on that. Nonetheless The Motto is a pretty sick track, as it is rumoured to be the closer of the album. 

Check it (ps. diggin' the Mac Dre shout out):

Raffi Torres- Far from Racist...

Torres and his wife, as Jay Z and Beyonce

Poor Raffi Torres and his wife posed as Jay Z and Beyonce this year for Halloween, and have been slammed for being "racist" throughout the social media world; as Raffi went about his costume by painting his skin black, to better portray the part of Jay Z. I think what a lot of these people who are slamming Raffi are unclear of; is how mainstream this type of costume idea has become. Take Dwayne Wade for instance, he dressed as Justin Timberlake a few years back, and received little, if any ridicule whatsoever. Wade painted his skin white, to match the part of Timberlake... kinda sounds like what Raffi did... no?

Wade, as Timberlake

Though the emergence of the social media world has proven to be an incredibly interesting media source, in turn, has also proved to become the medium where things get blown way out of proportion far too easily and quickly. This all came about after Raffi's teammate and 'social media guru' Paul 'BizNasty' Bissonnette posted 'twit-pic's' of his teammate's costumes at the Coyotes' Halloween party. Soon after Raffi's picture was posted, BizNasty's twitter feed blew up regarding Torres as being racist. BizNasty soon posted "As far as everyone trying to call 'Racism' because Raffi dressed up like Jay- Z can simmer down, He's a huge Jay-Z fan."

People need to stop getting their panties in a knot, with everything that athletes post via twitter. Raffi and his wife just tried to dress up as two celebrities whom they respect and are fans of, yet the media has deemed him as racist; or at least put it up for debate. There is nothing to debate, the guy is a huge Jay-Z fan. In terms of my heritage; being half-Japanese, should I get pissed about people who dress up as Geisha's for Halloween? Fuck no, it's Halloween! (and 'Memoirs of a Geisha' was a bomb flick hah).

R.E.M.'s New and Final Video

R.E.M. dropped their final video for their assumed to be last ever recorded track; We All Go Back to Where We Belong, off of their career-spanning greatest hits collection titled Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage: 1982-2011 (due out Nov 15). There are two versions of the video; one of which includes a black and white visual of the stunning actress Kirsten Dunst, as the other features well-respected poet and performer John Girono.

Check em both:

Jordan: Love the Game

As the hopes for a 2011-2012 NBA season are slowly but surely dwindling down, JordanBrand dropped a sick ad titled "Love the Game". The ad features the likes of Dwayne Wade, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony, staying in tip top shape; playing in various rec. leagues around the world, as they await an apparent lockout. Mad jokes Carmelo playin' in the "Jewish Under-40 League" haha.

The Dream's "Ghetto" Video

Terius Nash dropped the video for his track Ghetto ft. Big Sean, over his Radio Killa Records website earlier today. The track is the second single off of his latest album, 1977, and features The Dream cruisin' around on a bike, sippin' and postin' up with Big Sean, as well as various love innuendo's with one of The Dream's girls. 

Check the video.

Will never get sick of this...

Though there is regrettably no hope for an NBA season this year, I can't help but dwell on last years playoffs and this fucking goof. Dude kills me. "Stay home! Netflix!"

Character Win by Leafs

The Leafs edged out the Canadiens 5-4 in OT Saturday night, with an unbelievable winner from former Hab, Mikhail  Grabovski. Despite an injury scare regarding the head of James Reimer, the Leafs were able to edge out the Habs with goals from the likes of Steckel, Kessel, Phaneuf, Kulimen and an OT winner by Grabovski; for one of the most entertaining battles between the two hated rivals in years. 

Though anytime Gustavsson steps between the pipes I tend to close my eyes, the Leafs showed massive character coming from behind and battling the Habs in the most electric building in the NHL. They now move to 5-1-1 and face the Flyers in Philadelphia for Monday's tilt. Hopefully they can continue to ride this high and keep the hot start going.

No word on Reimer's head injury yet. 

Check the Grabo winner:

Stalley- Lincoln Way Nights (Shop Remix) [ft. Rick Ross] Video

Late Thursday, Stalley and Ricky Rozay premiered a dope, SpliffTV directed video; for the track Lincoln Way Nights (Shop Remix). The video consists of the two lounging and cruising around the city, while enjoying what looks to be an outstanding lobster and steak meal. Stalley's mixtape Lincoln Way Nights (Intelligent Trunk Music) is available now, as Rick Ross's forthcoming album is due out December 13th.

Hope all is well with Rozay, after his latest stints in the hospital; due to two separate seizures he suffered last week.

Check the vid.

Drake ft. Weezy- "The Real Her"

Drizzy links up with Wayne for his latest R&B endeavour for the track, The Real Her. There is yet to be word if the smooth soundin' track will feature on Drake's forthcoming album Take Care, but nonetheless should stir the pot before the November 15th release. 

Check it:

Leafs Rockin' a 4-0-1 Start to Season

Though the Leafs may have been blessed with quite possibly the easiest starting schedule in the NHL, with a week off and games against Montreal, Colorado, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Calgary; their hot start can't help but leave a Leaf fan smitten. Reimer has been all-around solid between the pipes, Kessel is hotter than anyone could have imagined, Phaneuf is playing the hockey that saw him score 20 goals in a season, and unlikely heros like Gardiner, Lupul and Steckel have impressed. Despite this, the Leafs have only played 5 games, and they started last season with the same 4-0-1 record; only to go 1-8-2 in their next 11 games. With that said, the Leafs' next 5 games are against Boston, Montreal, Philadelphia, New York Rangers, and Pittsburg; as they will have put their almost impeccable record against some serious Eastern Conference contenders. 

This hot start has without a doubt been fuelled by Phil Kessel's 12 points in 5 games. Although, do consider that Kessel started last season with 7 goals and 9 points in 8 games before going pointless for his next 7 games, as well as having a 14 game goal-less drought during the mid-point of the season. Though there is a massive change in his game this year as he is playing two-way hockey and going hard to the net; Kessel's play should be evaluated after the 15-20 game mark, as he has proven to be extremely streaky throughout his young career.

In terms of sure things on the Leafs squad, Steckel is without a doubt that in the face-off circle, winning 69 of his 99 thus far. Though he may be somewhat one-dimensional, his superior defensive play as well an impeccable record in the face-off circle has been an underlying factor to the Leafs success. Probably Burke's most underrated move this off-season. 

With all that said, the Leafs have me goin' right now- haven't been this excited about watching Leafs hockey in quite some time. Pumped for the Bruins game tomorrow.

Rihanna lookin' damn good in her new video

Check Rihanna lookin' crazy good in her video for We Found Love, featuring Calvin Harris.

Future Islands' Video for "Give Us the Wind"

Following the October 11th release of their third LP On the Water, Future Islands dropped the second video off of the album, with the sick track Give Us the Wind. The Mike Anderson directed video is fitting for the track, employing a very stark black and white vibe. Expect more video's from Future Islands, as Future Islands explained via the Baltimore Sun, that their label Thrill Jockey has backed them financially; much more so then they had for previous albums. 

Check the video.

ASAP Rocky- Out of This World

Harlem's ASAP Rocky drops the track Out of This World, in anticipation for his forthcoming album LiveLoveA$AP. You can expect to hear more of ASAP Rocky as the rapper recently signed a deal with Polo Ground Music and RCA.

Check it.

The Game and K Young

Check the in studio video for The Game and K Young's track, Name of Love; featuring the likes of Cashis, Joe Young and Rick Ross.

Prayers for Ricky Rozay- who suffered from a second seizure over the weekend.

M83's Video for Midnight City

M83 finally dropped a long-awaited video for their single Midnight City, off of their amazing album Hurry Up, We're Dreaming. The video itself seems like a trippy-ass dream as x-men esque kids escape from some sort of hospital and use their telekinetic powers to accomplish some paranormal activities. Cool video, even better track.

The Roots and Big K.R.I.T.

The Roots' ?uestlove (left) and Black Thought (right)

Fans can now anticipate the release of The Roots' forthcoming LP, with their first single; Make My, featuring Big K.R.I.T.

The album is to be titled undun, and is set to drop December 6th 2011. Check out the track below. 

Drake on SNL

Saturday night, Drake made his first appearance on SNL; performing the tracks Headlines and Make Me Proud, as Nicki Minaj made a special guest appearance. Lovin' the T.O. shootouts throughout the performances.

"Drive" Soundtrack

I'm never one to watch a movie and instantly head to a computer to check out a soundtrack, but after watching Drive, a music fan doesn't have much choice. The soundtrack is a perfect complement to an already amazing movie, that features some sweet 80's synth-pop sounding vibes including; a duo between Toronto's Electric Youth and College, a Desire track, as well as an sick movie-defining track by Kavinsky and CSS's Lovefoxxx. 

Phil "The Thrill" Kessel

Phil Kessel should be commended as he has proven to be a vital piece of the Leafs lineup throughout their 3-0-0 start; as he has netted 5 goals and 8 points in his first 3 games. Kessel continued a 13 game point streak, extending back from last season where he ended the 2010-2011 campaign on a tear. Though it is incredibly early, the talks of Kessel finally hitting the 40 goal mark are in high regard in Toronto, thus far. Despite this, don't forget how harsh a Toronto market can be for a player who isn't living up to expectations. Hopefully Leaf fans don't put all of their hopes and dreams on the shoulders of a crazy talented sniper, who has proven to be extremely streaky. 

By no means am I getting overly excited about this years Leafs, as it is clear that the East is more competitive than it has been in years. But if they do crack into the 7th or 8th spot this year, it will be because of the stellar play of James Reimer, as well as the streaky, though entertaining play of Phil Kessel. Lest we forget, Kessel has accomplished what he has this season thus far without the likes of Tim Connolly (day to day); the key centre who was supposed to help Kessel reach that elite status. When Connolly does arrive, hopefully he can further the success of Phil the Thrill. 

Khat

If you've yet to hear of Khat, tune in, as the kid has been dropping incredibly addicting mixtapes, while capitalizing as the social media world jumps all over him. Khat has released 2 mixtapes on his tumblr account in the past month and a half; his first is called Voodoo Child and his latest is titled Traphouse. 

Check some of his videos and download his mixtapes here (Both dope as fuck): http://khatxo.tumblr.com/

Drake- Make Me Proud

Drizzy stopped by Funkmaster Flex's show on Hot 97 Thursday night and debuted another track, off of his forthcoming sophomore album Take Care. Make Me Proud features Nicki Minaj; as they both go off on the track that will leave Drake fans smitten' as they anticipate Take Care's November 15th release.

Say word Drake's on SNL this Saturday too.

Check the track:

Lana Del Rey Performs

Lana Del Rey performed her amazing and extremely well-recieved single Video Games on Britain's Later... with Jools Holland. Girl gives me goosebumps.
Lana Del Rey's sold out Toronto show is on Nov. 30 at Mod Club.

Check it:

Check her performing the track Blue Jeans recorded "live at the Premises":

Nas- "Nasty" Video

Nas finally releases a video for his crazy good single Nasty, off of his forthcoming album Life is Good; which is yet to receive a release date. Jason Goldwatch directs a fitting video as Nas cruises with some models and strolls around Queensbridge, giving away his watches, ice and clothing to random people on the streets. Another one of Nas' tributes to the projects. 

Check the video:

Ireland Secure Playoff Birth

Though it wasn't pretty, the Rep. of Ireland secured their spot in the playoff round of the upcoming 2012 European Championship, beating Armenia 2-1 at Aviva Stadium Tuesday evening. The Keane-less squad (due to injury) was dealt a lucky break as the Armenian Keeper Roman Berezovsky was sent off for a handball, just 30 minutes in. Following this, Armenian Valeri Aleksanyan then gave Ireland the lead, poking the ball into his own net in the 43 minute. Richard Dunne extended the lead in the 59th, as Kevin Doyle was sent off following a Henrikh Mkhitaryan strike in the latter half of the game, that pulled Armenia a goal behind. 

In a game where Ireland and Armenia had it all to play for, Ireland came out somewhat lucky in a game where Armenia seemed to had outplayed them. Despite the good luck, due to Kevin Doyle's rash challenges, he will now miss the first leg of the playoff round. 

Ireland will have to wait until Thursday's Euro playoff draw to find out who they will face in the 2 legged battle for a Euro 2012 birth. Skipper Robbie Keane will hopefully be fully recovered from his injury for the November 11 and 15 playoff rounds. 

The Weeknd- Initiation

Saturday evening, Abel Tesfaye gave us something to be thankful for on thanksgiving; as he dropped the track Initiation. Presumably, this looks to be the first track off of his forthcoming album Echoes of Silence. The Weeknd goes off on this track. 

Check it:

Leafs Win Home Opener 2-0

Though the Leafs came out in the first period a little flat-footed, Reimer was able to bail them out, as they improved immensely throughout the second and third periods. Reimer recorded his first win and shutout of the season, while Matt Lombardi was able to pot his first goal in a Toronto uniform. Phaneuf then labeled a slap shot top-corner, following a perfectly placed pass by Kessel, leading to a 2-0 scoreline.

In addition, Gardiner looked good; as he was able to relieve his defence partner in Komisarek of any puck-moving duties, so that the shut down D-Man (Komisarek) can minimize mistakes in his own end. Lombardi was able to contribute after a long awaited return to the NHL from post-concussion syndrome. Also, Burke's recent acquisition displayed his value to the team; as Steckel provided his superior face-off skills, contributing in a big way for a Leafs win.

Furthermore, Phaneuf looked to be one of the better players on the Ice; as Kessel and Grabovski also displayed some modest stints of magic throughout the game. Though this is only the first game of the season, the Leafs can take this win forward; adding to their confidence for their upcoming game against Ottawa. If Reimer can stay hot, and the Leafs can minimize mistakes like they did tonight; they might be able to sneak into the playoffs after all, as their depth defensively could prove vital to their success.