Flobots

Hey all, so back in April my friends Justin and JD Zaner came back from spring break and told us all about this new group called the Flobots. They said they were going to be the next big thing, we of course laughed and dismissed their comments...we couldn't have been more wrong. As of this week, their album is number 15 on the Billboard top 200 list. Last week is was number 183! So it's needless to say that they are blowing up. Once you listen to them it's not surprising why. They have a really unique sound that includes a viola and trumpet with a hip-hop beat. To quote from their website, "Progressive in both style and message, the band's ability to drop from symphonic rock-infused crescendos into stripped-down string-laden breakbeats has earned Flobots a reputation for both originality and authenticity." Their song "Handlebars" is playing on major radio stations all across the country so you may have heard it.

Apart from their music, their message is incredible. They advocate for social justice and equality through their music. This has been seen many times before in hip-hop, most notably with Linkin Park's new album "Minutes to Midnight." The Flobots move beyond just talking about the issues and have started to take action to make a difference. On the main page of their website they have an advertisement for this organization they are a part of called The Relief Project. This is a coalition of musicians that have come together to use their music to fight for poverty and need around the world. The Relief Projects describes its vision as: "In collaboration with other recognized non-profit organizations, The Relief Project supports communities in immediate need across the United States and around the world. The Relief Project uses music as its platform to raise money, to educate, and to inspire groups and individuals to take a more active role in caring for humanity."

I strongly suggest that you check this group out and listen for yourself. As the first track on their album says, "There's a war going on for your mind." Don't believe everything you see and hear, discover it for yourself.

Peace and love.