XXL: The Creation of Blu & Exile’s Below the Heavens (Five-Year Anniversary)

To commemorate the five year anniversary of Below The Heavens, XXL did an interview with both Blu & Exile, chronologizing how they connected and constructed the classic album. Nice in depth article. Check it out.

The Creation of Blu & Exile’s Below the Heavens [5-Year Anniversary] Five years ago, the indie hip-hop landscape was pleasantly surprised by a then newcomer Blu and his official debut album Below the Heavens. Molded by producer Exile, of West Coast underground’s popular hip-hop duo Emanon, the project was one of 2007’s most celebrated hip-hop releases. The heartfelt lyricism, vivid vignettes, and flawless flow displayed by Blu, over Exile’s undeniably soulful production was an impeccable combination that won the hearts of both fans and critics. It certainly convinced XXL to place Blu as one of 2010’s Freshmen.

The legacy of both Blu and Exile continues to evolve, and a long-awaited follow-up, Give Me My Flowers While I Can Smell Them, was released via online last year December. While it received positive reviews, both fans and critics weren’t pleased with the album’s overall sound quality. As a means of satisfying the fans and presenting new materials, the album will be re-released September 4th. In the meantime, a 12″ EP will drop on July 24th. (Continue reading over at XXL)