In a music scene sometimes bereft of short-term memory, it's a pleasure to find socially-conscious work like Dread Daze's. The group, led by rapper/toaster Najashi, isn't so hardcore that it's not universal. And it doesn't take itself so seriously that it collapses under the weight of its own manifesto. Dread Daze has a message, and it's political and spiritual. But they also want you to have a good time and simply be entertained. Fewer and fewer acts care to juggle that combination of elements in these days of insipid pop and gangster-glam'd hip-hop.

Interview with Najashi of Dread Daze.

We discuss the production of "One Drop" by Mark Early and an appearance by Binghi Ghost; MC Hammer; Mark Forman, host of the Getting A Leg Up podcast; reflecting on his poem "Mankind"; the difference between his poetry and the lyrics of his songs; band members Ria Daniels on vocals, Brian Ward on guitars, Dread-Issac on keyboards, Donu on drums and DJ Thoroughgood; seeking intimacy though his songs and poetry; how living in Los Angeles influenced his song "Dready In Hollywood"; moving from New York to Kingston, Jamiaca to Los Angeles and how it had an impact on him as a musician; the Dread Daze podcast; upcoming Dread Daze performances; playing Dread Daze on the Small World Weekend Mix; collaborating with Taboo of Black Eyed Peas on the song "Fly High."

Featured songs are:

1. "One Drop"
2. "Mankind"
3. "Dready In Hollywood"
4. "Fly High (Ft. Taboo of Black Eyed Peas)"