Marc Savard's Career Likely Over

Bruins center Marc Savard (34 years-old) will reportedly miss all of the upcoming 2011-2012 season, and most likely will not be able to resume his career due to the lingering effects from a series of concussions. The Globe confirmed Wednesday that Savard has still been experiencing post-concussion syndrome almost seven months after a hit that ended his 2010-2011 campaign in January. 

The first real issue with Savard's concussions came March 7, 2010, when Pittsburgh's Matt Cooke hit Savard with a blindside elbow to the head. It was later revealed that Savard suffered a Grade 2 concussion, deeming him unfit to finish the season; though he did feature in the playoffs during Boston's seven game series against the Flyers. 

The former Oshawa General then began the 2010-2011 season in December, as he was still feeling the effects of concussion that Matt Cooke delivered. He wasn't himself; putting up a modest 10 points in 25 games. On January 22, Colorado D-Man Matt Hunwick delivered a clean but hard hit on the Bruin's forward, again resulting in a concussion. This hit would again shut the forward down for the rest of the season; a season where his Boston Bruins ended up winning the Cup, leaving a bitter sweet taste in the mouth of Savard. Despite his concussion history, Savard had superior playmaking skills that allowed him to put up 706 points in 13 pro seasons and 800 NHL games.

When news like this hits the fan, a hockey fan must really wonder what kind of effects Sidney Crosby is feeling right now. The best player in the NHL is also dealing with post concussion syndrome after being hit hard by Steckel and Hedman on two separate occasions in early January. With Crosby's return still up in the air, one must wonder how much care and thought will now be put into a proper return of the league's best player. Hopefully, Sid the Kid doesn't join the likes of Lindros, Kariya and now Savard as great players whose careers were cut short due to concussion.

Future Islands' Video for Balance

Future Islands unveil a sick visual journey for the track Balance that will appear on their next album On the Water, due out October 11th. The video is directed by longtime friend and collaborator Jay Buim, as he aims to capture the summertime mood, following a couple's endless adventure, hitchhiking across the country. 

Check the Vid:

Hargreaves Unfortunately Signs with City

Now City scum Hargreaves, leaving Bridgewater Hospital

Ex-United and England star Owen Hargreaves made a shocking move signing with City late Tuesday evening after completing a 3-hour medical at Bridgewater Hospital. This news came a few weeks after Sir Alex had notified Hargreaves that they will not re-sign the player after only playing 11 minutes in the past two years due to horrible injury. Hargreaves, who won a Champions League and Premier League Title with United in 2007-2008, even told Sir Alex that he would play and train for free but Sir Alex couldn't allow that to happen. With a player who had an unbelievable ability to anchor the central midfield and whose work ethic was second to none, it was almost a football travesty to think his career could be over. Following this news, Hargreaves' playing career looked just about over until youtube videos of his personal training sessions started floating around the internet as part of a self promotion campaign to hopefully play again. 

The Calgary native explained how "Just this summer, I've had maybe 30 agents getting in touch to say they can help, but I've turned them away. I don't see why some middle man should make a fast buck out of me. If clubs are interested, they will be able to see for themselves if I am fit". With that said, his videos sparked some interest as earlier on West Brom and Aston Villa looked to be the front runners to win over his services. City then came out of nowhere on Tuesday to snatch the former United star and give the player the money that Villa and West Brom obviously could not. Should have seen that coming (those conniving fucks). 

In my opinion, to sign with City right now is a bit of a kick in the balls to United, their supporters and their training staff. Despite the fact that Sir Alex did not re-sign the midfielder, it isn't okay to dishonour a Club and Training Staff that looked after and nurtured Hargreaves through those horrific injuries. The team and medical staff put their everything into a players recovery and the player repays the club by signing with their hated rivals. In addition, he claimed how he didn't want agents to help him get signed and make a quick buck, but look who is making a quick buck now... Joining a team with an extremely over-crowded midfield (likely for the money) when he could have easily started every match and been a key member of Villa or West Brom squad. 

Intrigued to know what City are paying a player who hasn't even played a full half in two years. With that said, as a Canadian and former massive fan of the player, I will be happy if Hargreaves can get back to form and contribute to England's National Squad. The player has been through hell and back the past few years and deserves a good break. Too bad it's with City.

Reagan Penn Wins 1st Career Fight

Former UFC Champion BJ Penn's brother Reagan (30 years-old) won via rear-naked choke in round one of his first career fight on Sunday night against Paul Gardiner (now 3-1). In a Pro Elite card that saw the likes of fellow Hawaiian and training partner Kendall Grove and Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski also pick up wins; fans truly got to witness how talented BJ's little bro is, winning in BJ Penn fashion with a rear-naked choke. Though it wasn't a crazy impressive win, it's a start to what looks to be a pretty decent but short MMA career, as he is recording his first career fight at 30 years of age. BJ and Reagan have always trained together but, Reagan stuck behind the scenes as BJ's career blossomed. Despite that, Reagan is said to be the most talented out of the Penn brothers; pumped to see what's next for him.

Reagan Penn training at the VA Sport Centre at the RVCA headquarters.

Main Attrakionz

It seems like the Bay Area duo have been hyped by just about everyone, including Danny Brown; who has been posting their videos via his Twitter account. Main Attrakionz just had their New York debut at Manhattan's New Museum Theatre this weekend. Hopefully, they eventually throw a Toronto date out there too.

Download their new mixtape 808's and Dark Grapes II, that dropped earlier this month. 

Check the video for Perfect Skies off of 808's and Dark Grapes II:

Video for Swaggin' Hard:

2011 VMA's

Chris Brown flying, just not singing

The VMA's were pretty whack as some outrageous yet extremely uninteresting events occurred; Beyonce announced her pregnancy, Lady Gaga dressed like a dude, Chris Brown Lip-synched his performance, and Jack Black-Will Ferrell-Seth Rogen embarrassed themselves mimicking the Beastie Boys.

The only good things to take from this year's VMA's were Kanye and Jay Z's performance of their track Otis and Tyler the Creator accepting his award in nothing but Odd Future style.

Kanye and Jay Z perform Otis:

Tyler the Creator accepting his award:

Free Earl!

United Spank Arsenal 8-2

United dismantled a struggling Arsenal squad 8-2 at Old Trafford featuring a set-piece hat trick from Wayne Rooney. Ashley Young also contributed with 2 stunning strikes as well as Welbeck, Nani and Park Ji-Sung all netting one each. Despite the lack of seasoned EPL players in a young Arsenal lineup; to score 8 goals against any Premier League team is a massive feat to say the least. This win put United top of the table, ahead of Man City by goal difference as City beat Tottenham 5-1 earlier today. 

United haven't scored 8 goals in a game since 1999 as Arsenal hadn't conceded 8 goals in a league match since 1896. With what looks like a definite rebuilding season for Arsenal, there has been many whispers about the future of their manager Arsene Wenger; after selling arguably their 2 best players. Despite being a United supporter, I believe sacking Wenger would be a horrible move for Arsenal. Having been in charge of the club for the past 15 years, he is the second longest serving present manager in the EPL behind Sir Alex Ferguson. Let him reinvest the money he just received from the Nasri and Fabergas transfers (two transfers he could do nothing about) and see what kind of squad he can put together. 

Amazing win for United. Couldn't be happier on a day where City scored 5 in a game and United countered with a stunning 8 goals. Champ19ns.

Big K.R.I.T.'s Video for The Vent

Big K.R.I.T. dropped a video for the track The Vent, to give his fans a taste of what can expect from his debut studio album Live from the Underground, due out September 27th. Big K.R.I.T. drops some pretty deep lines on the track making for a mad introspective video.

Kendrick Lamar's ADHD Video

Following the release of his first studio album Section80, it is clear that Kendrick Lamar has gained some substantial mainstream success. With that said, his ever growing success is increasing as just this month he was onstage with Snoop, The Game, Dr. Dre as well as Kurupt, and they all deemed him "The New King of the West Coast". Pretty strong words from some legendary heavy-hitters in the game.

Check out the video for ADHD off Lamar's album Section80.

Sir Alex to Speak with BBC After a 7 Year Absence

Greatest Manager in Football

Sir Alex once described BBC as "arrogant beyond belief" with an "inability to apologize". His hatred for the network stems from a 2004 Father and Son piece that BBC was doing on Sir Alex and his son Jason Ferguson; who is a key player agent for Elite Management. Sir Alex felt that his son was unfairly portrayed as a man who exploited his father's position and influence in order to benefit himself during the transfer window. Following the documentary airing on BBC three, Sir Alex refused to have anything to do with BBC (a 7 year hiatus).

Ferguson would later describe the documentary as "a whole lot of nonsense, all made-up stuff, brown paper bags and all that kind of carry-on". He went on, "It was a horrible attack on my son's honour and he should never have been accused of that. But it is such a huge organization that they will never apologize. They don't even care if you sue them or whatever, because they are so huge and have insurance. They carry on regardless and it's breathtaking".

Yesterday, one of the longest-running feuds in football seemingly ended as BBC and Manchester United released a statement explaining "Sir Alex Ferguson and the BBC have decided to put behind them the difficulties which led to Sir Alex feeling unable to appear on BBC programmes". Meaning Sir Alex will again appear on BBC's Match of the Day with Gary Lineker. This news came after an extremely overdue personal visit from BBC's director general Mark Thompson; where before Sir Alex hadn't received the apology that he demanded.

Sir Alex holds grudges like the best of them, so this news comes as a bit of a surprise as it took 7 years for the network to finally reach out to him.

Beyonce's New Video

Beyonce teams up with Laurent Briet and Ed Burke to direct the video for her track 1 + 1. Arguably one of her best songs off of her new album 4, the video consists of Beyonce sweating profusely with water falling around her, accompanied by a series of trippy visuals. Though that doesn't necessarily capture the true idea of the songs "love story"; Beyonce looks damn good!

Bon Iver and James Blake

After James Blake notified fans of a collaboration with Bon Iver's Justin Vernon last week on Twitter, the duo released their first track together, with the rumour of more to come. Fall Creek Boys Choir emerged on the internet last night as it successfully mixes the two musician's very unique sounds and seems to be a perfect meeting point for the two artists. People are deeming their possible collab album as Indie's Watch the Throne (Jay Z and Kanye Album).

Check the track:

Tha Carter IV Leaked

Tha Carter IV was set to drop this coming Sunday but instead was roaming the internet late Wednesday night. Though the album is nothing spectacular, Wayne throws down on a few tracks like Blunt Blowin', She Will, Abortion, So Special and the controversial track It's Good. Accompanied by Jadakiss and Drake on the track It's Good, Weezy clearly drops a Jay Z diss. 

Jay Z took a slight jab at Baby on the track H.A.M. saying "you got baby money". On the track It's Good, Wayne takes a not so slight jab at Jay Z spittin' "Talkin' bout baby money, I gotcha baby money, kidnap your bitch get that how much you love your lady money, I know you fake n***a, press your brakes n***a, I'll take you out, that's a date nigga, I'm a grown ass blood, stop playing with me, play asshole, and get an ass whippin', I think you pussycat, hello kitty." A little overexuberant to say the least, but I'm pretty excited to see what Jay Z has to say to those vicious lines.

As Wayne and Drake plan to begin a collaboration album just like Jay and Kanye recently completed, keep your eyes peeled for a few more jabs thrown between YMCMB and Jay's people. Didn't really see this coming...

Download Tha Carter IV here.

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Jays Come Back Against KC After Trade

Kelly Johnson

After a trade that sent long time Jay's Aaron Hill and John McDonald to Arizona for second baseman Kelly Johnson, GM Alex Anthopoulos explained "I have not ruled out either player being back here in 2012". Both now ex-Jay's were fan favourites and extremely well-liked around the dugout. Also, they have become comfortable and accustomed to life here in Toronto. Despite this, both players likely knew this trade was coming because of their former GM's openness to talk to them. Hill went on to say "This is all I've known, this has been my family. Like Alex said, I'm very open to coming back next year. This isn't the end." McDonald added "I've had a lot of conversations with Alex recently about just that, about continuing to be a Toronto Blue Jay and that excites me too". With both players becoming free agents after this season and having their families situated in Toronto, there is a good chance that they could sign back with the Jays come the offseason.

With that said, GM Anthopoulos' pulled off a deal where he landed his long time target in Kelly Johnson. Though the 29 year-old Johnson has just one year left on his contract, he is a former first rounder that hasn't really lived up to his potential. Anthopoulos will likely use the rest of the season to truly assess what Johnson is capable of and consider working out a deal for him to serve as their long term second baseman. Despite a poor .209 average, Johnson has 18 homers, 49 RBI's and 13 stolen bases. Good move, as the trade gives two former Jays the chance to play some October baseball in Arizona and also gives their GM the opportunity to assess new talent for a possible long term second baseman next year. 

On another positive note, the Jays came from behind against the Royals with homers from Bautista and red-hot rookie Brett Lawrie. Romero failed to earn his 6th straight win but picked up the no decision as he pitched 6 strong innings with 3 earned runs. Even in a game where he didn't have his best stuff, he was able to keep the Jays competitive.

Curren$y's Verde Terrace Mixtape

Curren$y teams up with DJ Drama for yet another mixtape Verde Terrace, leading up the release of Muscle Car Chronicles and Pilot Talk III. In 2011, Curren$y has been crazy busy dropping a total of 36 tracks throughout 2 albums and a mixtape and still has two more albums due out in 2011. Who says weed makes a man lazy? Not to mention, the guy has been on tour for a large chunk of the year. 

Download Verde Terrace:

The Weeknd's The Birds Part One- Video

A video for The Weeknd's The Birds Part One has been floating around the internet but Pitchfork explains that it has yet to be confirmed to in fact be an "official" video. Whether it is or it isn't, the video is pretty sick nonetheless.

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United Youngster's Smack Spurs 3-0

Anderson's celebration samba (dodgy as fuck, but hilarious)

The average age of United's starting lineup that played Spurs Monday evening was 23 years-old. United were able to dismantle a fairly strong opponent at Old Trafford with the likes of Phil Jones (19), Chris Smalling (21), Tom Cleverley (22), Anderson (23), David de Gea (20) as well as Manchester native Danny Welbeck (20), all starting. The youth of the squad truly made for an exciting match to watch where United controlled the majority of the possession; allowing the youngsters to show off their talent.

Goals from Rooney, Anderson and Welbeck sealed a victory that must have left Sir Alex with the thought; "Wesley who?". Anderson and Tom Cleverley put on a performance in the central midfield that would leave many supporters and fans of the game vowing that United do not need Wesley Sneijder. Don't forget United also had the likes of Darren Fletcher, Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick on the bench as well as the rumour of the 18 year-old starlet Paul Pogba making his debut; all capable of stepping the the central midfield. United should make due with what they have (which is no slouch), and allow Pogba to be developed and nurtured into United's true choice in the central midfield; without that spot being held by the long-term contract that a 27 year-old Sneijder would come with.

Outside of the Wesley saga, the youth of the squad really carried the story in Monday's match; as Phil Jones and Chris Smalling looked ever so comfortable manning the back line and David de Gea was able to bounce back from a shaky start to the season, with a clean sheet. In addition, Nani and Young provided fantastic pressure along the wings; easing the pressure for youngsters Cleverley and Anderson to make plays. Another interesting story was the fact the 20 year-old Danny Welbeck started over Berbatov again as well as freshly healed from injury, Javier Hernendez. The Manchester kid spent last season on loan to Sunderland where he enjoyed a very successful spell, playing a vital role in their attack. 

It was made clear in Monday's game once again, that Sir Alex and the staff at United truly have a knack for developing players and hopefully in the case of Wesley, they use and develop what they have. 

United will be confidently looking ahead as they are home to a struggling Arsenal on Sunday.

Lana Del Rey's Video for Video Games

Lana Del Rey officially drops the video for Video Games as it was previously deleted from youtube and vimeo. Her new single called Blue Jeans is due out anytime now and you can expect her official EP in September.

Danny Brown- Monopoly

Danny Brown brings back the style that the hip-hop game has been lacking today; similar to the likes of Meth and Red, ODB and even fellow Detroit native Eminem, the rapper reminds us how the influence of drugs can really make for dope hip-hop. Danny Brown is raw, unique and really doesn't give a fuck about what anyone thinks; just check his haircut. Brown has been tearing up the underground since 2003 but has finally began to gain some mainstream success with his most recent mixtape XXX, with tracks like Monopoly.

Check Monopoly:

Download XXX:

Bon Iver's Holocene Video

Justin Vernon

Wisconsin's Bon Iver released the video for the track Holocene off of their sophomore album Bon Iver, Bon Iver, that dropped in June. Frontman Justin Vernon's melodic voice accompanied with brilliant imagery as the video follows a young boy wandering around stunning Icelandic scenery; makes for an impressive video directed by Nabil. 

Holocene Video:

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The Weeknd- Thursday

The Weeknd finally dropped his much anticipated follow up album to House of Balloons called Thursday, late Thursday night via his website. Crazy hype, as it seemed everyone was downloading the album when his website soon crashed or was shut down and the social media world erupted when the download was no longer available. Thank God for the convenience of Hulkshare and Mediafire.

The album is off the hook, like expected. In addition to leaked tracks like Rolling Stone and The Birds Part One, The Weeknd spoils his fans with an unbelievable array of tracks that will only leave his fans wanting more. Life of the Party, Gone and Thursday are just a few of the dope tracks on the album as well as The Zone, that offers a sick verse from fellow Torontonian Drake.

Echoes of Silence will be The Weeknd's third album to complete the trilogy (House of Balloons, Thursdy, Echoes of Silence) due out sometime this fall. What's next for the dude who is running the R&B game right now? Maybe sign to a label? Doubt it, as The Weeknd tweeted just Saturday "why is it so hard to believe? i'm not signed to a label... deal with it". 

Download Thursday here, dope album.

The Zone ft. Drake:

Romero Looking for 5th Straight Win

Jay's Ricky Romero will be looking for his 5th straight win tonight against the Oakland Athletics, as they begin a four game series at O.co Coliseum. Romero, who has gone 11-9 with an era. of 2.87 this season, has surrendered just four runs in his past 31 1/3 innings. Romero explains that getting ahead in the count was vital to the success he has had in his past 4 starts stating "I think the key for me every time I go deep into games is strike one. That's big with me, and when I do that, I feel like I'm in control". 

Romero is matched up with another ace tonight in Oakland's 23 year-old Trevor Cahill who has gone 9-11 this season with an era. a shade below 4.00. Hopefully Lawrie can keep catapulting the Jays to victory and give Romero some help.

Martians Vs Goblins

The Game teams up with Tyler, the Creator and Lil' Wayne for yet another track leaked off of his upcoming album, The R.E.D. Album due out the 23rd of August. The No I.D. and 1500 or Nothing beat gives the opportunity for 3 of the heaviest rappers in the game to spit some dodgy and intense lines about the likes of Chris Brown, Rihanna and Lebron James. Sick track though continuously poking fun and beefing other artists is getting pretty old and boring; in this case it's mad jokes especially the cracks about Bron Bron.

Check the track.

Cœur de pirate Covers The Weeknd's Wicked Games

Montreal's Beatrice Martin, who goes by the stage name Coeur de pirate (pirate heart in french) has not been the first to cover one of The Weeknd's tracks, but is the first to do so successfully. Beatrice Martin is currently working on her second album, due out sometime this winter after having a successful debut self-titled album Coeur de pirate, that was also nominated for a Juno in 2008 (Best Francophone album). Martin also collaborated with Bedouin Soundclash's Jay Malinowski and several members of The Bronx for a side project called Armistice, where before Martin sang in French exclusively.

Check this video as Martin covers The Weeknd's Wicked Games with her distinct, angelic indie voice accompanied with a video that Martin herself put together with new and old footage that she had recorded.

The Game FT. Drake- Good Girls Gone Bad

The Game and Drake team up with producers Cool and Dre for the track Good Girls Gone Bad, dedicated to missing girl Natalee Holloway. Good Girls Gone Bad will in fact be on The Game's new album, The R.E.D. Album, due out August 23rd. The Game, a father of 4, gets real on this track about women, shouting out Kanye's Mom, Biggie's daughter, Beyonce and even spitting a verse about the Lil' Kim and Nicki Minaj beef; "And we don't wanna see Nicki fighting Lil' Kim, there's missin' women out there, let's focus on them". The Game goes on "This song is dedicated to Natalee Holloway, I feel for her Daddy, so I wrote this on Fathers Day".

Drake gets in there too, with a few witty one-liners over a sick Cool and Dre beat; "I love ya ass like Milhouse love Lisa, I love ya ass like the ninja turtles love pizza". Dope track.

Good Girls Gone Bad:

RIP Rick Rypien

It's a sad day in the hockey world. Winnipeg Jets tough guy Rick Rypien was found dead in his Crownsnest Pass, Alberta home by Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Monday. Rypien, 27, just signed a one-year contract worth $700,000 with the Winnipeg Jets in July as he played 4 years with the Vancouver Canucks' AHL affiliate the Manitoba Moose. According to various reports, RCMP officials confirmed that the death was not of any suspicious nature. The cause is unknown as there has yet to be an autopsy.

Rypien, who was popular with fans and in the lockeroom wherever he played, spent his entire six-year NHL career with the Canucks, totaling 226 penalty minutes as well as 16 points in 119 games. He was limited to just 31 penalty minutes and 1 assist in nine game this past season due to a leave of absence (personal reasons). This was one of a two separate leave of absence's in 3 years that the Canucks granted Rypien, as it was widely speculated it was related to mental health issues. Last year Rypien was most remembered for an incident with a fan on October 19, 2010, where after being ejected he pushed a linesman as he headed into the tunnel, following Rypien reaching into the stands and grabbing a fan by the chest. He was suspended for six games and the Canucks were fined $25,000.

This news comes as even more shocking due to the recent death of another notable NHL tough guy Derek Boogaard (28 years-old). Boogaard also spent 6 years in the NHL racking up 589 penalty minutes in 277 career games. He was found dead in his Minneapolis apartment by family members, later noting the cause of his death being the combination oxycodone and alcohol. On July 22, 2011, Derek's brother Aaron was charged with the unlawful distribution of a controlled substance for providing Derek with a narcotic pain reliever, merely one day after he had been released from a drug rehabilitation facility. 

Boogaard's family agreed to donate his brain to the Sports Legacy Institute as well as Boston University Medical School who study various athlete's brains in high-contact sports, especially regarding the brain condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy. It is believed that the same will be done with Rypien.

J Cole's Video for Work Out

J Cole releases the highly anticipated video for his track Work Out, off of his upcoming album Cole World: The Sideline Story, due out this fall. Dope track and video, as J Cole shoots hoops, picks up a girl while doing so and then parties with her that night; explaining that he's only in fact here for one night. 

J Cole is playin' a show on September 3rd in Toronto at Sound Academy. Check him.

United Win Premier League Opener 2-1

Ashley Young celebrating the winner

United narrowly beat out their opponents West Brom Sunday morning to win their opening 2011-2012 Premier League fixture. Rooney, with a full head of hair opened the scoring for the Champions in the 13th minute. After his initial back heel picked out Young, the winger's return to Rooney was controlled on his right and and driven in with his left to beat former Red Devil, Ben Foster. The celebration was short lived however, after Premier League newcomer and Rep. of Ireland International, Shane Long scored in the 34th minute. United's Spanish keeper was at fault as Long cut inside Smalling and cashed in with a right footed strike that dropped just under David de Gea. United fought hard, finally scoring a winner in the 83rd minute. Ashley Young tormented defenders on the left side of the pitch all match and in the 83rd minute, his strike deflected off of West Brom's Steven Reid and in. The win will prove vital as Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal all failed to pull out a win this weekend.

Despite the success of newcomer Ashley Young (who was involved in both goals) as well as youngsters Welbeck, Fabio, Cleverley and Smalling showing much promise; United saw Rio Ferdinand suffer a groin strain putting him on the sidelines for the next 6 weeks and Spanish Keeper de Gea once again showed signs of weakness as he did in the Community Shield last weekend.

I'm never one to question Sir Alex, but one must believe that 20 year-old David de Gea might not yet be ready to be the number one keeper at Old Trafford. The Spaniard is beginning to see how ruthless English football can be and what an unforgiving place it can be for a young 20 year-old. West Brom supporters chanted "dodgy keeper" every time he touched the ball as well as yelling "shooooot" every time a West Brom player was in any kind of shooting range. Rough crowd for the youngster's first Premier League start.

If you are doubting David de Gea's ability you must not have watched any La Liga football last year or any of the Under-21 European Championship. He undoubtedly has the ability to compete, the fact of the matter is the English game and media can be a rough place for a player of any age, let alone a 20 year-old keeper. Give the kid a chance.

On a good note, it feels great to have 2 points on Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal so early in the season.

Melanie Fiona

The Canadian R&B up and comer goes off as she drops the track 4AM. She is set to release her sophomore album  The MF Bridge sometime in November to follow up her debut album The Bridge(2009). Fiona has an unbelievable voice that even someone who doesn't like R&B has to commend.

She has been featured on tracks with the likes of John Legend and the Roots, I think it's about time Fiona collaborates with fellow Torontonian The Weeknd... 

4AM:

Robbie Keane to LA Galaxy

According to various reports, the Republic of Ireland skipper is on the verge of joining the likes of David Beckham and Landon Donavon at LA Galaxy. Robbie Keane has apparently agreed in principle to a two-year $8 million contract pending a physical in Los Angeles. The former Spurs captain hasn't played a full season at Tottenham since 2009; having had two separate loan spells at Celtic and West Ham in the past two years. The Irish legend holds his country's all-time goals record with 51 goals in 108 matches. 

If Keane completes this move, Los Angeles will be forced to move one of the three designated players currently on their roster as MLS rules allow up to three players whose salaries exceed the leagues $2,675,000 salary cap. Currently the LA Galaxy's three designated players are Landon Donavan, David Beckham and Juan Pablo Angel.

To bring a player with Keane's class, skill and ability to the MLS is a massive step in growing Football in North America. I don't mind the move, as long as Keane finishes his career at Celtic.

Lil Wayne Ft. Drake- She Will

Wayne and Drake collaborate once again for the track She Will, before both of their greatly anticipated albums drop this fall. Drake's album Take Care is set to drop October 24th as Wayne's the Carter IV is due out August 29th. The duo are rumoured to be working on a collaboration album after the release of their upcoming albums; following in the footsteps of Jay Z and Kanye. If She Will is a preview of what we will get on the collab album then they might just give Kanye and Jay a run for their money.

Download She Will:

Lil Wayne recording and discussing She Will:

Jay Z and Kanye's Otis Video

Jay Z and Kanye released the highly anticipated video for Otis last night that included the duo enjoying the simple things in life in the company of 4 super models as well as Aziz Ansari. In the video, they chopped up a $380,000 Mayback using power tools and cruised around on a dirt road with 4 models - an idea that came from director Spike Jonze. Who doesn't consider that the simple things in life?

Sick video.

United Don't "Need" Wesley Sneijder

As a United supporter, the idea of Wesley Sneijder commanding Sir Alex's midfield is a mouth-watering thought to say the least. With that said, the British press like usual, have made the whole ordeal a frustrating one. Sneijder has made it clear, that he does in fact want to leave Milan, leaving United supporters furious with the thought that he could go to rivals Man City. In addition, Sneijder's wage demands are said to be closer to the 250,000 pounds a week mark, which would be 30,000 pounds more than Rooney's current contract. It is a ridiculous thought that Sneijder despite his interest in United, should walk in earning more than the nucleus of the squad (Rooney), who has given his life to the team since the age of 18. Furthermore, the dream of Sneijder coming to Old Trafford has more or less died as David Gill has reportedly come out Thursday, confirming that United are not in fact looking to capture the Dutchman. Despite Gill's recent claim... crazier things have happened.

Honestly, though the fact that the addition of Sneijder would undoubtedly benefit United; who is United actually losing this year that needs replacing? After all we are the defending Premier League Champions. So they might have lost United legend Paul Scholes, but it is clear that Scholes hasn't been contributing like previous campaigns. United have actually inherited a Premier League ready central midfielder back from loan; Tom Cleverley who looks to have the ability to step right in. Cleverley appeared in 25 Premier League matches scoring 4 goals for Wigan last year. 

With the likes of Cleverley, Giggs, Carrick, Anderson, Fletcher and young Paul Pogba in the youth system, there really isn't a whole lot of room for a Wesley Sneijder. United are a club that develop from within, find young gems and develop them into world class players. It's obvious that Sir Alex knows his formula for a winning team and also knows what he has in his current squad. With that said, I believe that Sir Alex doesn't see the imminent need to capture the Dutchman especially after acquiring the likes of David de Gea, Ashley Young and Phil Jones earlier this summer.

If 200,000 pounds a week isn't enough for you Wesley, maybe City is the place for you. Just have fun not winning trophies.

Lawrie's Grand Slam Overshadows Alvarez's First Start

Lawrie as he hits his first career Grand Slam at the Rogers Centre, Wednesday night

In a night that saw a lot of things like a debut starter, sign stealing allegations and a bench clearing stir up, it looks like Lawrie's successful first series against Baltimore wasn't a fluke after all. Wednesday night, the Rogers Centre erupted as Lawrie was greeted by 20,000 Torontonians on their feet as he hit his first career Grand Slam against the Oakland Athletics. After he hit the 6th inning Grand Slam, the young and tightly wound Canuck ran towards his celebrating teammates and fired his helmet so hard against the floor in celebration that it sent a laughing Edwin Encarnacion ducking at the end of the dugout. Fact is, the kid has always been well-liked by his teammates even throughout spring training, so to see his teammates embrace his success and respond to it like they have is a great sight to see for all Jays fans.

Lawrie's career night overshadowed young Henderson Alvarez's first start as he had a strong game going 5 2/3 innings, throwing 104 pitches. If he had managed to record one more out, Lawrie's Grand Slam would have given his fellow 21 year old teammate his first MLB win. Alvarez is hopeful to take over the injured Vallanueva's spot in the rotation for good, and seems to have the stuff to do so this year. If the guy continues to throw that insane moving fastball like he did Wednesday and effectively mix up speeds, he shouldn't have much of a problem.

With all of this said, the Jays faithful have embraced their fellow Canuck undoubtedly with open arms. Hopefully they just don't forget and disregard arguably the best player in the league who also plays RF for the Jays, my boy Jose. Furthermore, with the likes of Lawrie, Bautista, Rasmus, Lind, Escobar, Romero, Arencibia, Cecil, Morrow and now Alvarez, the Jays should be nothing less than fun to watch for the rest of the season, building a ridiculous expectation for the 2011-2012 season.

By the way, fuck these sign stealing allegations. 

Method Man to Headline Smoker's Club tour

Method Man leads an All-Star cast in this fall's Smoker's Club tour featuring the obvious likes of Curren$y, Big K.R.I.T., and Smoke DZA. This year, Curren$y, Big K.R.I.T., and Smoke DZA; who have absolutely blown up in the past few months, chose to get veteran rapper Method Man to headline the tour. Their Toronto date is set for October 21 at Kool Haus.

Check Curren$y's new video Televised featuring Fiend (who will make appearances on tour):

J.Cole Drops 3 More Tracks

Any Given Sunday 2 is upon us as J Cole is releasing various tracks leading up to the release of his album, much like Kanye did with "G.O.O.D. Fridays". Unreleased tracks Bring Em' In, Be and Roll Call are the 3 tracks that J Cole made free to everyone through his blog Sunday night. Be is a sick "freestyle" but out of the 3, the best track is Bring Em' In as it was supposed to be the opening track for J Cole's upcoming album but didn't end up making the cut.

Shitty thing for J Cole is that Hip-Hop fans were definitely too preoccupied with the release of Ye and Jay Z's Watch the Throne to really take these tracks in. 

J Cole's album Cole World: Sideline Story should be live; due out September 27. 

Bring Em' In:

Roll Call:

Be:

Lawrie Boosts Jays Lineup, Alvarez Call-Up

Henderson Alvarez

Brett Lawrie

Lawrie's first big league series has proven to be successful one to say the least. At his first career at bat, Lawrie recorded an RBI single and two days later captured his first home run on the final day of the series at Camden Yards.

Lawrie's call up comes at a time where the Jays have their 3 main starters in Ricky Romero, Brett Cecil and Brendan Morrow pitching well; collectively winning 8 games since the all-star break. Bautista is still leading the majors with a modest 33 homers and a team high 76 RBI's while only really seeing 3 pitches a night to hit. In the past 40 games, lead off man Yunel Escobar is batting a solid .330 and players like Arencibia and Rasmus are beginning to really look comfortable in a Jays uniform.

Jays fans are going to be able to truly assess the young talent in their organization with the likes of 21 year old Henderson Alvarez rumoured for a call up, to fill in for the injured Villanueva. Alvarez, who signed with the Jays at the age of 16, throws a fastball that reaches the high 90's and has an 8-4 record with a 2.86 ERA in Double A ball this year.

Pumped to watch the young Jays. Jays are at home to face the Athletics on Tuesday for a 3 game series, likely to be the team Alvarez has his first career start against.

United Remind City Where They Belong in Community Shield

Nani

Despite City's ridiculous big-money spending habits, they have failed to really field a squad that can faze United in head to head competition. Yes they might have won the FA Cup last year but honestly if City are thrilled with that, it might just show how far they are from being in the same category and caliber of Manchester United. United came from 2-0 down for a 3-2 comeback victory, displaying to City and their supporters the class that United players compete at once again. Smalling's tap in from the Young free kick coupled with Portuguese International Nani's 2 goals (one of which was the extra time winner), completed United's second half comeback.  

Champ19ns!

Watch the Throne- Nasty

At least once a year, there is a Hip-Hop album that forces me to scan every single blog, website and media-outlet I possibly can just to get my hands on some kind of leak. Kanye and Jay Z were able to prevent a much rumoured leak and successfully drop this groundbreaking album; hassle free. 

I was literally glued to the clock on my Macbook Pro as itunes began downloading my pre-order of Watch the Throne at the stroke of midnight. The album provides everything I was expecting; world class producers with the likes of Swizz Beatz, the Neptunes, RZA and Pete Rock, dope appearances by Frank Ocean, Beyonce and Mr. Hudson, along with the amazing lyrical presence of two absolute legends in the game. The two Frank Ocean tracks as well as Gotta Have It and New Day are by far my favourite tracks on the album. 

The duo provide their listeners with a more mature, modest and philosophical approach to the album and truly give their fans something to listen to. Jay Z and Ye make sure that this project isn't dubbed as over-hyped and rightfully prove all of their critics wrong by providing us with an instant classic. 

No Church in the Wild:

Made in America:

New Day:

Farewell to a Legend

Scholes has appeared in 676 matches for United scoring 150 goals over a 17 year span, making his debut in 1994. 

The Ginger Prince himself was greeted by Pele, United legend Eric Cantona (coach of New York Cosmos) as well as Sir Alex and David Gill before the kick-off to his testimonial on Friday. Paul Scholes who will go down as one of United's most decorated players in team history, has won 10 Premier League titles, 4 FA cups and 2 European Championships. Known for his long distance crackers, it was fitting that Scholes opened the scoring of his testimonial with a beautiful, textbook Scholes 20-yard strike. 

The class act left the Old Trafford faithful simply with this modest statement "I hope I gave them a few decent memories." Well Paul, you have left me with more memories than a United supporter could imagine. Other than his hilarious hand balls, he gave me a moment never to forget... The winner against Barca on April 23, 2008 (Champions League Semi). Though you didn't play in the final, United supporters should always think of you when they remember the priceless moment of John Terry's crying ass after he duffed that penalty. 

Paul you're a fucking Legend. 

P.S. Can't wait for United to dick-slap City tomorrow. 

Curren$y Interview with Pitchfork

Curren$y opens up to Pitchfork about him and his beloved fans infatuation with marijuana as well as the environment at his shows. Dude is crazy laid back; he prefers to perform at festivals so that his fans can smoke without anyone bothering them. Keep an eye open for his collaborative mixtape with Wiz and Big Sean called Amber Kush.

Jays' Brett Lawrie Finally Gets the Call

Burnaby's highly sought after 21 year-old Brett Lawrie's long wait for a call to the big leagues has finally come. On December 6th 2010, the Jays Acquired the young Canadian for SP Shaun Marcum, ready to deem him as the third baseman of the future. On Thursday, that call finally came with GM Alex Anthopoulos simply notifying him via phone call that "you're our new third baseman" and to meet the team in Baltimore for the beginning of their series against the Orioles on Friday. 

In AAA ball in Las Vegas, Lawrie was hitting a whopping .353 with 18 homers and 63 RBIs in 69 games. In addition, the Canuck has 24 doubles, six triples, a .415 on-base percentage and a .661 slugging percentage. 

I feel like grabbing a Lawrie jersey now...

Lana Del Rey

If you've yet to listen to Lana Del Rey, you are missing out on one of the most refreshing artists of 2011. I have been straight up hypnotized by the girl from New York who describes her sound as "Hollywood sadcore" and "gangster Nancy Sinatra". She formerly went under the name of Lizzy Grant and released a 2008 album called Kill Kill.  Since then, she has dropped Diet Mtn Dew and Kinda Outta Luck under the new name of Lana Del Rey and has blown people away with the single Video Games. Look for her September EP.

Video Games.