There's an intimacy to the new FREE/MAN release, "The Reconnection EP," that borders on a welcome invasion of personal space. It is the sonic equivalent of someone leaning in, not to share a secret, but to create the silence where your own might finally surface. Charlie Freeman hasn't built a grand cathedral of sound here; he's simply furnished a quiet room with stark, necessary...

The song's authenticity lies in the sincerity with which it was written and performed and in the emotional weight he gives to his rapping. This is a beautiful song by any measure. The new tune "I'm Right Here" by UK rapper Mr Streetz deals with the serious issue of helping alcoholics find comfort and hope before it's too late. It's great that he tackles serious issues...