After I got hype just from reading the subject of the email containing the newest offering from Diz Gibran & Moonshine, I noticed a poignant line in the body — “…sometimes you gotta go away to make a comeback.”  Well that’s one way to make the fiends (such as myself) go through withdrawal.  I’m just happy he wasn’t gone for good.

After a pretty lengthy hiatus (in Internet time), an EP, aptly entitled The Return, re-aligns the dynamic duo of Diz & Moon with their trademark blend of classic bars and beats.  Don’t expect your usual, garden variety Cali rap.  This project takes the scenic route via a freeway joyride with a couple back alley shortcuts for good measure.  Impressive material.  Shouts to Heather over at herfection for the presentation duties on this.

DOWNLOAD | Diz Gibran & Moonshine – The Return EP

Yeah, so what…Soon You’ll Understand (in my top 5 pro bono releases of 2009, easily) dropped all the way back in April.  You didn’t think one of the strongest joints to ever come off the tip of Diz Gibran‘s pen wasn’t gonna get some cinematography to go along with it, right?  Diz along w/ BJ the Chicago Kid visit the California coast plus a handful of other prime locales to create thebackground for the narrative of “Truly Yours.”  The video was directed by Jerome D.

Another gritty, grimy Diz Gibran and Moonshine collabo.  A drum track and some horns.  That’s it.  It’s something special when a producer (from Queens) and an emcee (from LA) work together so tightly that the outcome is almost always flawless.  There’s a connection there that’s strong.  Can’t wait to hear what’s next from these two.  Nothing gets me more excited that authentic hip-hop in its rawest form.

DOWNLOAD | Diz Gibran – “Show n Prove”

It’s really dope that the Soon You’ll Understand mixtape album garnered so much attention and critical acclaim.   I’ve been singing Diz Gibran‘s praises for about a year now and I’m glad folks are showing love.  Here’s some brand new (*insert your favorite fire / heat euphemism here*) straight off his desktop directly to your awaiting index fingers.  Moonshine on the boom bap.

DOWNLOAD | Diz Gibran – “Dark End of  The Street”

Raise your hand if you know about Diz Gibran and feel like you have been waiting for this very mixtape for eons?  Yeah me too.  And if you’re not up on the Miami / LA representative, this is the PERFECT time to do so.  The spit game is nauseous.  I’m already calling this one of the best mixtapes of 2009 and it’s only April. Moonshine on the beats, Crooks & Castles on the love and support.  I’m gonna stop typing now. Just trust me and download it.  It’s free.  And if you need a little more encouragement, here’s a quick blast from the past.

I just told Diz a few minutes ago that I wish I had this song on Tuesday night.  A couple hours after Barack Obama was declared our 44th president-elect.  When Shinobi Shaw, DJ Brainchild and I were driving thru Union Square and cats were overwhelmed with joy and emotion, losin’ their damn minds in the streets.  We coulda pulled the van right up on the sidewalk and kept this on repeat.  Consider the “Black Republican” instrumental MURDERIZED.

DOWNLOAD | Diz Gibran – “Black Emperor”