AFM- A combination of break ya neck beats and intelligent commentary intertwined with the catchiest hooks and choruses known to music!
While it’s hard to put a definitive date on when AFM was officially formed, the core members Joey Ocean and Vinomaz have been rocking together for over 10 years. The name AFM is an acronym which stands for A Family Movement and though both members are of different ethnic backgrounds, they are family by way of a mutual love of the music and promote unity of all people encouraging listeners to judge others by there hearts as opposed to their skin color. Joey Ocean hails from Pasadena while Vinomaz represents Carpinteria. Even with the 75 mile distance between the 2, it doesn’t hinder them from getting together in the studio and recording magic. There unique brand of hip hop sets them aside from any group to ever come from the West Coast as they are able to address issues of the common man while putting a spin on them that make you wanna dance, cry and laugh all at the same time. Many of their fans end up scratching there cds attempting to rewind the so that they can catch all of the witty punch lines.
AFM has played many shows throughout southern California including famous spots like the “The Whiskey”, The Troubadour, Key Club and Velvet Jones as well as opening up for acts like Raekwon, Talib Kweli, SOS Band, Zapp & Roger, Master P and many others. After signing a deal and dropping an album with the now defunct label IDDP in 2005, AFM has now reemerged with a fresh perspective and has started their own label called Neo Classic Records. 2009 saw some of the best results as AFM was recognized by the Mavric Independent Music Awards for their hip hop anthem “Mic Raiders” receiving hip hop single of the year!
AFM’s newest project to drop is called Collard Greens and Pinto Beans. Already it is garnering a lot of attention and rave reviews from critics and fans alike. This 18 track opus gives us a true look into the lives of 2 family men who find that humor combined with true lyrical prowess is the best remedy for everyday life. Songs like Kill Bill that talk about there disdain for Bill collectors find the group making fun of their situations as far as being broke while other songs like Sippin on Saturn touch on how nice it is to get away mentally sometimes.
Vinomaz serves as the primary producer while Joey Ocean brings his infectious hooks to the table allowing for a harmonious union. Their music is a way of life and from the beginning of the album until the end, you can feel the authenticity in all that they speak about on each song. All of these factors plus a crazily hyped live show make for one the best groups in any musical genre. Be on the lookout for AFM!
Commitment to hip-hop Black and Brown!
