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.

Julian Lynch- "Back" Video

It is difficult to clearly identify the Ridgewood, NJ native's sound; as the PhD student (joint Ethnomusicology and Anthropology program) finds time to create an appealing indie/alternative swag, different from your traditional artist. He combines various exclusive and untamed aspects of sound in addition to his clearly modest but intriguing scholarly credentials; to create something truly unique to Julian Lynch. After studying his undergrad in Scotland, Lynch resided in Madison, WI; where he has released 3 successful LP's, while completing his PhD. If you haven't already, check out the LP's; Orange You Glad (2009), Mare (2010), and Terra (2011), as well as the video for the track Back, off of his latest album Terra.

Check the video for Back:

Phil Jones- United & England's Future

Jones (left), Smalling (right)

If you are a fan of English football or the Premier League at that, and you've yet to hear of Phil Jones; do note that it won't be long until you can't stop raving about the teenage phenom. After a successful season at Blackburn last year, it was a three way race to land the signature of the 19 year-old. Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United were all rumoured to be after the youngster's talents, but after receiving a personal visit from Sir Alex himself, Jones knew where he was going to end up. United paid a very modest £16.5 million for young footballer who can play in any defensive role as well as in the midfield and looks to have the all of the ingredients to become England's next captain; or at least rival and Man City defender Micah Richards thinks so.

Richards explained "Phil Jones is going to be England captain one day, he's got everything: pace, reads the game well, is good on the ball." Richards continued to The Guardian, "He's at the right club as well because Sir Alex Ferguson promotes young players." Quite the high praise from a player who is competing against Jones for a spot on the England squad, as well as competing for a Premier League, and Champions League crown as a part of United's bitter rival, Man City. 

Another reason why Jones is capable of becoming England and even United's next captain is because of one of the main contributing factors as to why Sir Alex was convinced to sign the young defender. Last season, when United was picking apart Blackburn, winning the game by a score of 7-1; Jones was furiously yelling at and commanding his team, as they seemingly gave up on the game. Jones was half the age of many of the players on his supporting Blackburn cast, but was playing with the experience of a veteran, never settling, or giving up on a ball. Jones was the only player on the Blackburn side who seemed to give a shit that they were losing and he displayed it; and Sir Alex loved it.

He has since won over a key role in United's first team, alongside fellow youngster in 21 year-old Chris Smalling; dubbed to be England's new 'dynamic duo' in defence. In addition, Jones is rumoured to gain his first England cap on Friday, against Montenegro.

Keep your eyes open for Phil Jones.

Leafs Acquire Steckel

Tuesday evening, it was confirmed that the Leafs acquired Dave Steckel from the Devils in exchange for a 2012 4th round pick. 

Steckel is great pick up as he is an elite face-off man who can add some much needed depth in the centre position as well as a helping hand on a weak Toronto penalty kill, that ranked 28th last season. Burke adds yet another American to the Leafs squad, as the 6'5 Wisconsin native has collected 59 points in 309 NHL games with the Capitals and Devils in vital defensive forward roles. Unfortunately, he is best known for the hit that put Crosby out during last years Winter Classic. 

The Stepkids-Legend In My Own Mind

The Stepkids are a trio of singers/songwriters signed to one of the dopest labels around, in Stonesthrow Records (Mayer Hawthorne, J Dilla, Aloe Black also signed to Stonesthrow). Each member have had successful stints as musicians touring with the likes of Alicia Keys, Lauren Hill, 50 cent and Zox; and combine all of their musical talents equally on their debut self-titled LP. Check their hilarious video for the track Legend In My Own Mind. 

Drake- "Headlines" Video

Drizzy released the video for Headlines, the first single off of his forthcoming sophomore album Take Care. Drake posted the Lamar Taylor and Hyghly Alleyne directed video over his October's Very Own blog; as it consists of various shots of him accompanied by a posse of dudes with OVOXO gear at Toronto's historic Guild, along with various solo shots in Toronto at the Skydome (ye that's right SKYDOME) and what looks to be the CN Tower elevator. 

His upcoming album Take Care is set to drop October 24th. Check the video:

"Goon" Trailer

Minnesota-native and hockey fan Sean William Scott teams up with another hockey-loving actor, in Canadian Jay Baruchel for a comedy about the life of an enforcer in the Minors.

Due out in early 2012.

Young Jeezy and T.I.- F.A.M.E.

Young Jeezy collaborates with T.I. on his latest track, about the inevitable haters that come along with the fame in the game; hence the song name, F.A.M.E. (Fake Ass Mothafuckas Envy). The J.U.S.T.I.C.E League produced track is the perfect platform for the two rappers to hit reflection mode as Jeezy comments on the haters and bullshit in the game, and T.I. touches on his latest stint in prison. The two go off on the third track released off of Jeezy's upcoming LP Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition, as the album has once again been pushed back; set to release now on December 20, 2011.

Check it:

CurrenSy- Light Snacks

Spitta drops yet another laid back track called Light Snacks on Friday; as it seems the hard workin' rapper releases tracks on a daily basis now. Stay tuned as plenty more tracks should be on the horizon,  leading up to the release of his upcoming mixtape Puff Daddy as well as another studio album in Pilot Talk III.

Check the track: