Reviews (4)

Probably the best CD around.
Wow, I really don't know what to say. This CD is thoroughly amazing from start to finish.

Basically, this CD is a bunch of different styles of music artfully mixed into a 72 minute CD that will take you breath away. Everything from jazz, techno, rap, ambient, hip-hop, etc. is on this disc. The sounds go from fast and loud to soft and tranquil. It is a beautiful and emotional masterpiece that is a must have for anyone even remotely interested in this type of music.

Please, buy this CD and listen to it, start to finish, and I am sure you to will be as amazed with this CD as I am!

Game of two halves
he's not short on imagination, our subliminal kid - and his heart is definitely in the right place. The mission is: stay off the beaten path, keep it interesting, mix up some styles. The result: ummm, mostly pretty good. The first section is killer: tracks from all over the musical compass and some absolutely top-notch mixes going on here: DJ Krush brings cool jazzy vibes, the Sharpshooters low-key hip-hop is a high point, old skool styles with Aesop Rock and that's not mentioning the D&B, abstract techno and other moves and grooves hiding in the corners.

...and then things go a little pear-shaped. The second section dwells in the realm of very abstract beats, heavy jazz influences and finally heads off into the hills of ambient electronica. It wears pretty quickly, given DJ Spookys tendency to mix in and out of tracks before they've even got properly settled down. This works for faster, catchier tracks, but is a bit disorientating with more jazzy, open grooves.

- so, if you have Mr. Miller's magpie-like taste and find yourself painfully bored by any mix less interesting than, say, Coldcut's superlative JDJ collection, I'd say this was a risky disc. But it's definitely not dull.

Strictly off the hook
I am a huge fan of this album. It's a little heavier then other work the man has done but not too deviant from the style that has made DJ spooky who he is. The album trails off towards the end but this doesn't detract from the over presentation

Pretty Decent
A clean mix from Dj Spooky, on a Shadow Records kick all of a sudden. We hear from the likes of hip-hop gurus Dj Krush and Dj Cam, some new faces (to me at least) like Quentin's Ladder and Fugitive Elf. Its altogether very jazzy, which is a bit different from his last DJ Mix, which was a bit more boppy and thumpy.
The mix is about 40% hip-hop, 40% jungle, and 20% ambient. Few mixes can accurately join these genres together, but I feel he was successful in the attempt.
I think the highlight track would be 23. Anything with Bill Laswell is bound to be interesting, but this track is very subtle and extremely dope. Hopefully Dj Spooky will go back on the ambient, dubby kick, which is an amalgamation that is sorely missed. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great disc
These guys know what's up...They are the nicest group of musicians I've ever met, and DJ Logic is definitely the best DJ around right now. The Anomaly is certainly pleasing to the ears, each track just flows right into the next, and before you know it, you're hitting the play button to start it over again! I would say if you love drum and bass, jazz, hip-hop and funk, then this album is perfect for you. There are even a few special guests, John Medeski, Vernon Reid- (another great fella, I've had the opportunity to meet him as well, and John) and a violin player takes over bringing a sweet melody in one of the songs. The Hip-Hopera song is awesome, it's got a female opera singer mixed with some Wu-Tang-ish beats, only from the Logic would you get something so eclectic...a great disc to show all your friends and make them wonder where on Earth something so cool came about...See them in concert too, if you get the chance. It's a totally different experience. Great energy throughout. Love it...Can't say enough good things about these guys and their music. Much love- Jen

Could Be Up Your Alley; Too Mature for Me
I only know Logic from this album and I must say he is not cutting things up too hard here. Most of the stuff here is at about the energy level of Air or like the mellower cuts on the last DJ Shadow record. This is not rowdy enough stuff for my taste. I was looking for a crazier turntablist pastiche, ala Peanut Butter Wolf or Australia's The Avalanches. If you want nutty cuts that are surprising and will move your feet and have strong beats, check out towards the end of the album, the cuts Hip-Hopera and Miles Away, which is all full of "Sketches of Spain" horns. Those two have me making spastic motions on the train if I have the headphones on but the rest of the album is for Medeski, Martin, and Wood fans only. Medeski actually guests on a track or two here even.

DJ Logic's colorful spin on jazz
I saw DJ Logic open for the Dave Matthews Band, and I immediately knew that this is an artist worth checking into. Along with the music, seeing people dancing in their seats was what sold me. 'The Anomaly' basically captures the improvisational spirit of jazz, the groovy rhythms of funk, all under the framework of instrumental hip-hop. Just think St Germain meets RJD2 meets Cut Chemist. Blended into the mix is everything from Miles Davis trumpet bursts, Sly Stone basslines, to DJ turntable scratching. DJ Logic achieves the ultimate celebratory experience...turntabilism you can dance to.

Black buddah!
Yeah,Anomaly has many feeling of jam.It makes inspiration.
DJ Logic,He is just like conducter in the band.Cazy shows many talent.
It have a feeling of dance,trance! It's fun.

Not bad, but not my sorta thang
DJ Logic gets cool points because he uses live instrumentation over his backdrops, not just samples of live instrumentation. He also gets points because he used love vocals...and that chick playing the violin on Soul Kissing was absolutely amazing on the instrument.

But, this album is a little too experimental and flawed for my taste.

I'm not a big fan of that whole house scene, though Soul Kissing is my favorite song on this album. Some of the things he did...the layers he created didn't sound too good to me throughout. It worked on some points, but not on all of them.

I can appreciate his creativity, and the track where the dude spits...that beat is pretty smooth sounding, I wouldn't mind rhyming to that myself. But, overall, this album is hit or miss. Most of was a miss to me. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Deep Concentration reinforces what you fundamentally love about hip-hop and then proceeds to flip your brain into hyperspace with some of the more progressive DJ compositions from some of the most respected turntablists around. West Coast DJ Cut Chemist (of Jurassic 5 and Ozomatli) reaches extra deep into the archives to build "Lesson 6," while DJs Swingsett and Wally find a hook in a loop of dripping water for the trippy "Centaurius Space Bass." Hip-hop purists will appreciate the X-Ecutioners' assault "A Turntable Experience" and the only MC cut, "Say What," by the lyrical marvels Latyrx. Some of the routines on Deep Concentration are sonically experimental while others, such as Prince Paul's ego trip, "DJ Prince Paul vs. the World," simply excel with excess. --Todd Levin ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Classic.....
Although a classic of which music genre is anyone's guess. Trip hop prehaps? There so much depth to this album it boggles the mind. I purchased this album over seven years ago when I was just starting to get into DJ Shadow. If you are a fan of Shadow you need this album. This is also what I would call a "bridge" album because the artists on it are tied to so many different music scenes....I guess that's mostly because of Cut Chemist. This is a definate "must" for anyone that enjoys turntable artistry.

Absolute Masterpiece
You get a bit of every style in this package. The skillz amaze, but your butt still moves.

The content alternates where the A sides (2LP in my case), are butt shakin' turntablist rave-ups and the B's are more ambient, jazzy, smoove stuff. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Def Jux
If your a real Def Jux fan then you already have almost every song on this album, if your new to Def Jux then you should pick this up as an introduction to a great hip hop label.

The Shape of Things to Come...
Not too crazy about the first 2 tracks, but the contributions by Cannibal Ox and RJD2 make this 7 song disc worth every penny. Can Ox should appeal to fans of both indie hip hop and the more thuggish variety, with their gritty beats and suffocating lyrics. RJD2 provides a very pleasant instrumental and El-P expels some ugly demons from within. Aesop Rock also does his thing on "Kill 'Em All." Most importantly, this album is just a taste of what El-P's label will be putting out for years to come. This is like a baseball team with loads of young talent.

Whats all the hubbub about?
THis is the realest rawest oh yeah. This is so real it makes reality appear as fiction.You just don't know you will never know.WHatever.I like Company Flow as much as the next man but this isn't anything to get hysterical about.Interesting beats and rhymes but this album by no means contains great songs.More filler than killer.Buy FUNCRUSHER PLUS and COLD VEIN.

don't sleep
This album is raw. There is no other way to explain it. I like probably half of the cd's I ever purchase, and rarely do I like something a given artist has done on more than one album, but I can state unequivocally that Company Flow et. al. put 110% into every song that they create. And don't let the small number of tracks fool you, these are long cuts that provide plenty of listening time. I'm glad to see that the coflo tradition is alive and kicking.

Company Flow is back... and with some new talent
El-P has always had a unique talent in his lyrics and now in his production. Even though with the loss of Mr. Len and Big Jus he still brings a style very similar to the Company Flow from 'Fun Crusher Plus' days... I knew what to expect from El-P so I got a first taste of Cannibal OX and I was blown away too. Especially on the best track on the EP, "Iron Galaxy", which sounds futuristic with is music, but the lyrics really talk about harsh city and family life. Again Cannibal OX drops more dope material with "Straight Off The D.I.C."... Aesop Rock hit me with a good track "Kill Em All" about slavery and dropping some nice lines in it 'I'd rather be the wisher/ instead of the penny inside the well'. "Silver Fox" was a nice instrumental meant just to listen to not to rap over...

Not a bad track on this CD. Only problem I had with it was that I paid $13 for it when it was really worth an EP price of $8, but I'll get over it... DOPE MATERIAL EXPECT MORE OFF DEF JUX LATER ON... ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 1998

In a year in which DJs asserted that, yes, they too are musicians, it was the duo of Cut Chemist (a turntablist in Jurassic 5 and Ozomatli) and Shortkut (a member, along with DJ Qbert and Mix Master Mike, of the Invisibl Skratch Piklz), spinning live at a San Francisco party that put the proof in the pudding. Mixing albums from across the decades, some familiar and some obscure, the duo create something entirely--and undeniably--their own. --Randy Silver ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A True Classic - REALLY
Why is this recording a classic? Aside from the music itself, this album will be remembered in the underground archives as a classic for a reason stated in it's title: Cut Chemist meets Shortkut. This technically superb vinyl-shredding session was UNREHEARSED- Cut Chemist and Shortkut had NEVER met prior to this performance. And though their set starts off with a bit of back-and-forth warm ups, the two culprits quickly begin interacting like they had been performing together for years. Without knowing that the two had never met each other before this performance, let alone rehearsed the set, one would have no trouble believing that this recording was the result of a well-planned, thought out collaboration. And as for the music itself, Cut Chemist (formerly of Ozzomatli and currently one-half of the DJ team behind The Jurrasic Five) and Shortkut (member of both The Invisible Skratch Piklz and Beat Junkies turntable crews) combine to create a very compatible mix of old-school and new-school hip-hop and soul tunes, beats, and breaks, top-notch scratching and beat-mixing/juggling, and a wide variety of comical, scientific, and downright out-of-the-blue vocal samples. This is an outrageously clever, fresh, on-point head bobbing DJ set. If you're checking out this album, you probably have some disposition toward hip-hop and/or DJ mixes/live sets. I say to you: This one is a MUST have.

SWEET JEZUS!
All I have to say is two words, "holy crap" this is single handly the best scratching/techno cd I have ever heard. I thought Fatboy Slim's "A Night at the Big Beat Boutique" was awesome, I've just changed my mind. This is a cd you pop in your stereo and just stare at the speakers with amazement. How could people develop such amazing sounds using chunks of rotating vinyl? Then I found out that when this CD was recorded, Shortkut and Cut Chemist didn't rehearse anything, they hadn't even met before this! SWEET JEZUS! (sorry, I'm getting carried away) Buy this CD and you will know what real DJ'ing is like.

Yup, I was fooled.
This set sounded so perfect that I figured it HAD to be rehearsed. The transitions are too smooth, the mixes too perfect, the skratchin' too ill. But according to another reviewer, these two had never worked together, or even MET, prior to this encounter. That makes it all the sweeter. It's one of the best examples out there of just what DJs can do. Seventy minutes of nonstop scratching, ingenious samples, and unbeatable party beats-- this is the album I always reach for when I'm trying to convince unbelievers of the power of the DJ. And more often than not, they're sold on the idea.

With a little more lift and a little more thrust on the marketing side, this series could have taken off in a big way. As it is, we've got two incredible albums of hip-hop goodness that're going to age incredibly well, no question about it. If you don't have them already, what the hell are you waiting for?

Speechless... after witnessing the birth of a new art form!
Okay, everybody, I was skeptical when this CD was put in my hand. I grew up listening to old school rap (Run-DMC, the Beasties, LL,) and thought that DJ-ing was just a beat for the MCs. Then, of course, I was disgusted by Puffy and all that "sampling" of the 90s. I thought to myself before I put this CD on: "Well, this can't possibly be art, or even innovative or interesting. I mean, all the guys are doing is mixing other people's music, just like Puffy... and that stuff was so WEAK."

Let me just say: I was never more wrong.

This CD is a work of genius. I can't believe I am saying that, but truth is truth.

True, these guys are taking music other people made, but they are putting it together in totally new ways. As one reviewer said before-- and he was right on the money-- this is a new form of art much like Jazz. They are using other music as their paint, but making totally new canvasses with it. And, it is listenable, not just academic! This CD is both humbling and inspiring.

Words fail me.

Why?

Because my jaw is still dragging on the floor!!

strictly for scratch addicts
I was at the 'Bronx To Brixton' event at the Brixton Academy sometime in 98, when some little American dude who had a stall set up pressed this CD on me. [...]. I somehow managed not to lose it that night, took it home, fired up a zoobie and slapped it on. And?...let me first say this is the probably the most innovative mix CD I've ever heard. Chemist and Shortkut throw together such an amazingly diverse mixture of obscure samples, bizzare skits and classic tracks that it's impossible not to be blown away initially. Featuring instrumentals from the likes of Group Home, J5, Beatnuts, KRS, and some cool stuff I've never heard before, this would be the ultimate mix album were it not for one glaring downside...THERE'S TOO MUCH [...] SCRATCHING!.It does not let up ONCE during the entire 70 mins. It gets to the point where you wish they'd give it a rest just so you can enjoy the fantastic tracks they're scratching over. Don't get me wrong, I love scratching, but when you hear it continously for 70 mins you just want to scream and kick your stereo. If Chemist and Shortkut can somehow curb their scratch tendencies, I'd definately buy something else by them, but this is strictly for scratch addicts. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Compilation Fever
This album was off the hook! Every track is crazy. This has the illest underground MCs. Y'all need to watch out, they bring the ehat on this album. You want some real music? Then cop the album!!!!!!!!

For Real
This album was off the hook! Every track is crazy. Watch out for these cats, they're definitely makin some real noise. Cop the album!!!!!!!!

Compilation of the year easily
This album is great. Asheru is fast becoming one of my favorite rappers- the track with Kweli is worth the purchase price alone. J-Live seems to be popping up everywhere- take a listen to the track with Soulive. If you don't get up and dance, check your heartbeat. I was a little disappointed with the Richy Pitch track, which is really just some people talking over a mediocre beat. Overall, though, there is not much skipping around on this album, something that rarely can be said for compilations. I look forward to more from 7 Heads in the future. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Roc Raida Rules
If you really want an idea how sweet roc raida is get ahold of one of his videos such as "the adventures of grandmaster roc raida." he is so full of body tricks and other goodies that the music is only half of his skill

roc raida rockin the house
Roc raida is simpily one of the sickest performers out there. I seen him at a rave in denver and the man tore it up. you definetley need to check out this cd.tust me. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A companion piece to last 2002’s DJ Spooky/Matthew Shipp collaboration Optometry, Dubtometry features a hodgepodge of techno, turntablism, andexperimental trip tunes. Despite its title, Dubtometry featureslittle of that familiar rumble, though dub master Lee "Scratch" Perry doesdrop in on "Jungle Soldier" and "Sequentia Absentia." The album, however, is concentratated around clever samples from the likes of Karsh Kale, I-Sound, and Negativland. The jazz-oriented material on Optometry survives only in spirit, as Spooky'sreinterpretations keep the emphasis squarely on the electronic. While John Coltrane fans will appreciate lithe lines in "Parachutes" and "Rosemary," this dreamy, extraordinary effort has a heart made of Spooky’s natural medium--wax. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Another gem added to a long and fine catalog.
I have been listening to music from this artist since the late 1997, and from Necropolis, to Riddum Warfare, to the Frieght Elevator Quartet, to The Blue series with Matthew Shipp, this artist has proven that he has few peers if any at what he does. And what DJ Spooky does is to create landscapes made from tones, ambience, and samples. Along with his own brand of turntablism DJ Spooky continues to do two important things; Elevate the state of hip-hop underground in general when everyone wants to be Fithty Cent or Trick Daddy; Help to keep the music out of the clutches of those who would do little more than glorifly the "thug life".
However, it is important to also say that we have ignored genius in this culture before, I hope that the fact that we still get releases from DJ Spooky is a sign that things will get better for those in the population who need to hear genius, unfeddered by corporate greed.

wicked mash up!
This album is one of those rare remix projects that actually comes out better than the original (at least for my tastes). The abstract/free jazz aesthetic on the original 'Optometry' album was engaging, but not exactly my thing. This album is killer. Just look at the roster, Mad Prof., Scratch Perry, J-Live(sick track!), Karsh Kale, and I-sound just to name a few. Actually, I think the best remix comes from newcomer, Colorform, who records for DJ Spooky's Synchronic Records. His remix is perfect for chilling at home, but at the same time could rock the dance floor. Same could be said about the DJ Goo remixes. DJ Spooky has to be one of the most consistent artists working in today's industry. ... Read more

Album Description

UK compilation mixed by U.N.K.L.E.'s James Lavelle. 23tracks from Rare Earth, Psychonauts, DJ Shadow, South,Chemical Brothers, Howie B, Orbital, Medway, Bushwacka,Radiohead & many more. The CD is snuggled in a hinged metal tin and then a slipcase. 2001. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Huh?
-
This compilation left me feeling disappointed. The mix weaves in different directions, putting the listener on edge, leaving him unsatisfied. Incomplete. Random. Neurotic. Inclusion of Green Velvet's "La-La-Land" totally ruined whatever goodness there was in the mix.

The album is as coherent as this review.
-

an excellent representation of the Fabric Live sound...
This cd provides an excellent representation spanning two years of Fabriclive in London, an openminded night showcasing an array of breaks, techno, house, leftfield and other genres of electronic music. According to James Lavelle, "I wanted this mix to reflect the diversity and sound of FABRICLIVE - past, present and future..."

The Fabric resident works his way through many of these aformentioned genres with ease throughout the course of the mix. The cd opens with Rare Earth's percussive take on the Temptations "Get Ready" and runs through classics like DJ Shadow's "Organ Donor," subsequently mixed with an excellent Quannum rap track named Divine Intervention.

The pace progressively builds into breaks such as the Chemical Brothers "Piku" which later open up into house with tracks such as Landmine "Fairytale" and Bushwacka's "The Healer"

The mix then winds back down again, closing with Lavelle's own mix of "Everything in its Right Place" by Radiohead.

Throughout the entire experience, a lot of musical ground is covered which can be considered uncommon for mix cds in general. Having seen several Lavelle's sets at Fabric, I can attest that this mix is quite an accurate portrayal of the eclectic sounds showcased by James on a weekly basis.

tracklisting:
01. into
02. rare earth- people get ready
03. psychonauts- circles
04. dj shadow- organ donor
05. quannum- divine intervention
06. south- broken head (II)
07. chemical brothers- piku
08. howie b- hey jack
09. orbital- funny break
10. bushwacka- feel it
11. forme- kick a hole (tigerstyle)
12. altitude- night stalker
13. peter dildo- physical 2000
14. green velvet- la la land
15. animated- grab the rope
16. kahuna brothers- mindset 2 cycle
17. morel- true
18. echomen- thru 2 you
19. landmine- fairytale
20. pete lazonby- sacred cycles
21. medway- release
22. bushwacka- the healer
23. radiohead- everything in its right place ... Read more

Album Details

This Compiled Set Showcases 17 Tracks from the Famed Skratch Pickl and Beastie DJ Into One Full Length Set. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ex-BeatJunkie andDilated Peoplesrefugee Babu takes the time-honored hip-hop tradition of the master mix andtwists it up a bit. A well-traveled and well-respected man, the Los Angelesturntablist is an emcee's DJ who got his start during the early '90s, a factreflected in Duck Season, Vol. 1's almost lazily nostalgic selection. Overall, the production work reigns supreme over fairly mediocre lyricism.However, the album's old-school feel is strengthened by Babu's tight mixingskills. Not only are the songs well blended, he actually chops things up a bitwith a taste of cut 'n' scratch and some nice backspin techniques. Randomsnippets of dialogue and sound effects tie into the Duck Season theme.New York is repped to full effect by solid cuts fromBumpy Knuckles,M.O.P., and theBeatnuts, whilePhil Da Agony andJurassic 5 holdit down for the West. --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Nice beats...that's all you need to know...
I originally purchased this cd for ONE song...Ducky Boy by Jurassic 5...After listening to this cd once, i was instantly hooked...DJ Babu mixes some of the nicest underground music into over an hour of non-stop beats and rhymes...Highly recommended for any lover of hip hop...Instead of putting in one cd and listening to one or two songs and flipping in another, all you need to do is pop this in and you'll be set...

Underground mix madness
A Babu produced CD of almost completely underground artists. What more could the underground heads want? This is one of those CD's you just slap in the background and nod your head. I haven't heard a cut on this CD I don't like. Big ups to [a website] for turning me on to many of the artists on this album, and big ups to Babu for bringing BDK out of retirement. Can't wait for vol 2! Now if only Primo would do an underground CD....

Fantastic: Skillful & Creative
This album is great... it surpasses Dilated Peoples' in my opinion. Babu is definatley a talented scratcher, and his lines are funny and clever. The beats aren't exactly original, but they are still awesome and catchy. I love the theme of the album... the ducks quacking randomly is great. Also, Phil Da Agony and J5 make it even more worth it. If you are looking to download tracks, check out 4,5, and 6.

simply the best
i just have to say, Beautiful,dope rhymes and amazing beats, producing by many people and mixing by babu, showing his skills in the turn tables. i recommended "patch up the pieces, go get it now. ...

Babu brings the pain fo' sho
I just saw this at the store yesterday and picked it up...I'm glad i did. This album is hot. Babu is one of the best in the biz at turntablism (check out the movie "Scratch" if you can). He just plain rips it on this album. Plus, check out the guest MC's who show up: M.O.P., Defari, Evidence, Big daddy Kane, Phil da Agony, these guys all rip their verses over hot beats. L.A. underground stakes its claim on this joint. Pick this up if you love hip-hop. One. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Parkers Legacy Revived & Rejuvenated for the 21st Century!!!
Forget the negative connotations usually associated with "remix" albums, Bird Up is an album that defies genre; a contemporary interpretation by artists who love Charlie Parker and want to pay tribute to his musical legacy.

On this 13 track disc, artists from the RZA, Me'shell Ndegeocello, El-P, Dan the Automator, Garth Hudson and Dr. John contribute sounds and production that cross over the worlds of hip-hop, electronica, soul, roots and Cajun music. For Parker die-hards, this disc sheds light on the continuation of his influence through modern artists and styles. For the uninitiated, the familiarity of mainstream artists on this disc is the perfect catalyst for entrance into Parker's back catalogue.

Each artist leaves a piece of their own sound juxtaposed next to Parker's signature sound, further evidence of this being in the vein of a tribute rather than a remix. From the X-ecutioners turntable assault on "Cheers (X-ecutioners Style)", NdegeOcello's funky bass lines on "Relaxin' at the Camarillo (August 29)" to Garth Hudson's synth-heavy take on the atmospheric "All the Shadows of Nuff", the styles may seem uneven next to each other, but in fact show how many genres and styles of music Parker has influenced over generations.

Many artists, such as System of A Down's Serj Tankian have morphed Parker's songs into identities of their own with both the music and a few lyrics thrown in as well. Tankian wrote lyrics and supplied vocals to Parker's "Bird of Paradise (Gone)."

While this album may cross many musical styles, the artists all share their love for Parker's music and their freethinking approach towards

Just the Facts, Man
Now let me simply state the facts:

1. Bird Up: The Charlie Parker Remix Project is without question the finest jazz remix album ever recorded. Its musicality and depth of character, past and present, make Verve and Blue Note's recent forays into the vaults sound trite by comparison.

2. Though Bird Up packs a serious wallop of unadulterated star power (Serj from System of a Down, RZA, Meshell Ndegeocello, Kronos Quartet, X-ecutioners), it's balanced out not only by its multi-dimensional worldwide underground representation (El-P, Hal Willner, Ravi Coltrane, Kodo, Mocean Worker), but by some exceptional performances by fresh new faces (Deke Damascus, Donk, Stephanie Vezina, Redback, Coconut Tree). And don't sleep on Dr. John the Night Tripper.

3. The highly diverse contemporary artists paying homage to Bird on this album are virtuosic rebels one and all, forming an alliance in the name of their creative ancestor (not to mention alongside him). As an experiment, this results in some seriously evolved new sounds.

4. Charlie Parker, in and of himself, is the thread that ties the album together. Though each artist incorporates him in their own unique way, we, the listeners, can feel Bird's powerful presence looming large throughout each and every beautifully unpredictable track.

5. If it's the truth you're after, find this album. The rest is history.

Hmmmmm.....
Perhaps the reviewer who bemoaned this record's pandering to the "MTV culture" should take a look at the artists who are actually featured on it. Only Serj Tankian's band System Of A Down are MTV favorites. Dan The Automator's Gorillaz and the RZA's Wu-Tang Clan may get occasional MTV play, but the names of the individuals themselves are not by any means big mainstream crowd-pullers. The rest of the remixers here are as unMTV as it gets. Please refrain from belittling a creative and ambitious record with nonsensical non-criticisms.

awesome
Great. I especially love track 11, Perhaps (Someday the Roof Will Get Fixed). Am I the only one?

THIS BIRD IS SOARING
Bird Up: The Charlie Parker Remix Project is a mind blowing CD. I felt like I traveled to a whole new dimension with the album's futuristic, fresh and exciting sound. I think of it as the United Nations of CD's because it's such a great representation of the world of music today.

From the first alluring song on the album, Red Hawk's Now's The Time (No Time Like Now), I was hooked and knew I had to get this CD.

I love every song on this album that's why I especially like to listen to it on my CD Walkman. I feel so cool and free as I walk down the street. It puts a lot of extra pep in my step.

For those of you looking for an amazing muscial adventure, here is your answer. ... Read more

Album Description

Although we loved Raz’s first two records with ROIR, this is by far his finest record to date (as Badawi or under any other moniker). On “Soldier Of Midian” Raz samples his own live playing (from Flute to Bendir to Zarb) and agitates the mix with the use of subtle electronic effects. Heavy with Middle-Eastern percussion and a mesmerizing beat, it quickens the pulse and physically unnerves the listener. The pulsating rhythms are aggressive and unyielding, bordering on a hard-core drum record. Badawi’s ability to capture a mood and control it, to force his will upon the listener, this is what makes “Soldier Of Midian” so compelling.

... Read more

Reviews (3)

Relentless Heartstopping Electric Boogie Bedouin
Incredible piece of art Raz! Congrats. Dancers listen...if you want to dance to this make sure your doctor gives you a clean bill of health before attempting it! With the right approach to choreography this album is a Troupe's dream. The underlying percussion is relentless and the repetitions are perfect for troupe or prop work. And for clubbing this can't be beat!

Follow the Storm
I agree with the other reviewer...this disc is relentless. Raz Mesinai, formerly of Sub Dub, is a true musical genius. This album got pretty much zero promotion...such a shame because the quality and originality of 'Soldier of Midian' easily rivals Karsh Kale, Badmarsh, Talvin Singh, and yes even Bill Laswell. Not that the style is similar to those musicians, this is much more middle eastern, but quite frankly there are few artists I know to compare this stuff with. Those into this sound will find little that rivals it....as for me I like things with a little more of a dub feel. But..this certainly helps round out my collection.

Relentless
Badawi's latest release is a pounding, galloping romp through the Middle East. It's his best album since "Bedouin Sound Clash," (better if you like his middle eastern leanings better than his dub leanings) and evidence that Badawi is an artist at the top of his game. On this album, Raz samples his own live playing and subtlely warps it with electronic effects. The results are freaking amazing. 14 songs of relentless, throbbing beats, which continually impress with each repeated listening. A perfect synthesis of past, present and future, of over here and over there. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This collection of hip-hop DJ routines marked the first serious effort to reintroduce the DJ as a true artist to hip-hop fans. In the fog of producer-heavy rap music from the Bad Boy and Death Row camps that dominated listeners' ears in the mid 1990s, Return of the DJ is a refreshing shot of oxygen. It contains outstanding performances--including Rob Swift's classic Biz Markie routine in "Rob Gets Busy"--all from some of the still-burgeoning turntablist movement's most important DJs. Kicking off with Kool DJ E.Q.'s hip-hop primer, "The Death of Hip Hop," the whole collection is an amazing revelation of hip-hop's true legacy, as cut-and-pasted by artists such as Invisibl Skratch Piklz, Peanut Butter Wolf, and the World Famous Beat Junkies. You won't even miss the MCs. --Todd Levin ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A great start
We've all heard a little scratching in old hip-hop and the very occasional new song, but this CD will blow you away if you're a discerning hip hop listener and if you've ever been intrigued by the DJ. I was introduced to modern turntablism when I heard the Cut Chemist track from this album on the radio one night, and it was worth every risky cent buying the whole CD from hearing that one track. Every one of them is outstanding; pick this up if you're at all interested in hip hop and are a bit percussion-minded.

Great mix of turntablism
This is a great scratch cd which encompasses many different types of turntablist styles. This CD is only topped by Vol. 2. Vol. 3 is a bit of a let-down but all three are worth checking out.

great to break into dj music
this is a great cd to kind of get a feel for turntablism. great starter.

Artistry
I am not a devote fan of the hip-hop genre. I simply do not have the tolerance for the way many artists rely upon a base of tired rhymes, and deabilitatingly conventional deliveries. Their are exceptions, i realize (my own personal favorites would be Tribe Called Quest's earlier work).

But the component of hip-hop that always pleased me the most has, and probably always will be held in the hands of the DJ. This album, simply put, is the finest collection of the best in the business.

Each track is an assimilation of samples expertly chosen from the roots of Hip-hop, and those few contemporary artists who have held true to their predecessors quality. This is, by and large, before the time when DJs value was based soley on those who out worked the rest, and raced to find the most obscure samples. Thankfully, and finally, this is also before the time when DJs, albeit poor ones, sold their wrists to the unholy junction of rap and metal.

So stare into the eyes of the goofy comic vampire on the cover and take a listen to what hip-hop has lost, and hopefully some day will regain.

Return of the D.J. Volume 1
If you are tired of hearing the same old MC peel off raps or the tepid guitar chords of almost every rock band, Return of the DJ is so fresh, its like stepping into a new world completely. I fell in love with the sound of scratching the first time I heard it, its raw squeaky sound captivated me. And this album is full it, complete with embedded sound samples. Absolutely wonderful. If you thought the turntable wasn't a legitimate instrument, this will change your mind. Capturing the old-school essence of hip hop, Return of the DJ features some of the most prominent names in the DJ industry. The Beastie Boy's DJ Mixmaster Mike turns in one of the most reckless scratching acts ever in Terrorwrist. Other highlights include Scratch Monopoly Pt.II by The Beat Junkies, Death of Hip-Hop by Kool DJ E.Q.. In fact all of the songs are great, there is not one song on this album that doesn't hit the mark right on. Scratch on. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An interesting listen!
I bought this CD without knowing anything about Christian Marclay, other than that he was a turntablist with an ear for crazy sound manipulation. I found that to be somewhat of an understatement. This is a corrosive album, with at least a few tracks that are impossible to listen to: "Dust Breeding" with it's constant left-channel-right-channel audio switching, "1000 Cycles" is filled with hard vinyl pops that are hard to ignore or assimilate. "Phonodrum" is what you could imagine a scizophrenic hears in his head right before he goes off the deep end.
That's not to say there aren't elements to enjoy on this album. Many of the collages come together to form compelling pieces. In "Brown Rain," for example, you simultaneously hear an old calypso tune, the sound of a ping pong game, and a mutated trumpet solo. "Second Coming" consists of a porno flexidisc being played over a jittery, skipping acoustic guitar line. "Night Music" is filled with so many samples and so many pops and crackles, it all becomes part of the rhythm.
Admittedly, since Christian is a performance artist, it would be more fulfilling to watch him create these collages, using up to 8 turntables at a time. But not having that option, one is left to digest this album. For those looking for tunes or DJ type scratching, you will be disappointed. For people with an adventurous ear, you might want to check it out.

a little too strong and corrosive for most
I admit... I'm something of a music snob. When loud, corrosive guitar noise is unleashed, I'm up in the thick of it like a pig in slop. This record stumped me though...

The textures and images that this music produces are so bizarre and disturbing that I can't in good conscience recommend it to the average listener. It's not that it's particularly loud, even. It's just disturbing. Real disturbing. Ministry or Trent Reznor can't touch this guy when it comes to producing nightmares.

I ain't kiddin'... I fell asleep to this album once and had terrible, terrible dreams. It's still aesthetically sound, I suppose, but proceed with caution. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

"MAN YOUR BABY MAMA LICKED MY TESTICLES"
That was a line from the Black Spooks freestyle, damn thats a tight one. Most of them are. I recommend the Chino XL freestyle, as well as Juice and Eminem. Overall this was kinda dissapointing, but still worth it, if you can find it, go and cop Volume 4.

It's all Gravy
I think this Freestyle compilation came out hella cool i was kinda disappointed with what J5 did on there I was expecting more from them dialated peoples comes out sick and black spooks (#6) is hella clean. I recommend you get this cd

This is a good album
This album is one that i like. It is 27 tracks, and a whole lot of freestyles. The freestyles are very good, i cant speak for all of them, but a lot of them. Dilated People being is one of the bad ones. They are just terrible. Eminem is good, but his freestyles are the same as the ones that were released as bootlegs like 2 years ago. So hes not surprising. Chino XL was good, as well as KRS-ONE, and Aziz, and Planet Asia. Jurassic 5...not even a freestyle. But anyways, the album is good, not one that you can bump, because the songs are only a few minutes, and it wont sound right. The album is good, but I would rather borrow it from a friend rather than buying it. I doubt that i'm going to be listening to this cd anytime soon. one freestyle to look out for is the one by Styles of Beyond. Damn that is a tight freestyle. Honestly, you will be blown away by them. I recommend their cd for any hip hop listener out there. Not hardcore rap, but hip hop listener. So, in conclusion, the album is very good, but in my opinion not buy worthy. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Album
This was the first record made up entirely of samples. Each song uses only records by a paticular artist from which the song gets its name. On beautiful piece on genius entitled "Jane Birken and Serge Gainsbourg" he takes someone saying "yesterday" and somone saying "no" and manipulates it so it sounds like "say yes...no". But some of the longer unmanipulated samples are a little puff daddy-esque such as on "Johann Struass.This record was way ahead of its time and still is. Buy it.

A plunderphonic vinyl collage masterpiece.
Avant/Experimental turntable master Christian Marclay's (who is also a contemprary artist) "More Encores" was originally released as a 10" vinyl record on the No Man's Land label(Germany) in 1988. It's composed entirely of records after whom each track is titled. In performance, he mixes records of almost any genre on up to 8 turntables, fragmenting, repeating, altering speeds, playing them backwards, & breaking them in front of mics. "John Cage" is a collage made by cutting slices from several records and gluing them back together into a single disc, and a hand-crank gramophone was used in "Louis Armstrong". In all other places the records were mixed and manipulated on multiple turntables and recorded analog with the use of overdubbing. For years now Marclay along with fellow turntable terrorist Otomo Yoshihide have been a great breath of "fresh air" with the ongoing flood of dull one dimensional hip-hop & electronic music DJ's... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Though they may lack the flash of turntablist crews such as the X-ecutioners and Invisibl Skratch Piklz, L.A.'s largely nebulous Beat Junkies DJ collective (the 1997 International Turntable Federation champions) are truly a force to be reckoned with. This two-disc mix mainly highlights the cutting and spinning of original crew member Rhettmatic, though fellow Junkies Melo-D, Babu, and J-Rocc make key cameos as well. While Volume 2 lacks the marquee rap hit makers and that higher-profile mix tapes offer, it more than makes up for any star-power deficiencies with a one-two punch of topnotch mixing and an excellent cast of indie rappers (including the Visionaries and Jurassic 5). Closer to an all-new release than an all-star compilation, the set is guaranteed to turn you on to a handful of undiscovered talents, both MC and DJ. And for a mix tape, that's the ultimate accomplishment. --Roni Sarig ... Read more

Reviews (8)

DON'T THINK TWICE
DJ Rhettmatic lays down some very serious mixes with authority built by an exclusive range of top notch hip hop that invigoratingly schools all those that partake. Rhettmatic takes you on a trip through top notch Cali rhyme sayers (primarily - among others) that could only be equaled by DJ Babu's World Famous Beat Junkies [East Coast] set. But that's apples to oranges - Rhettmatics set stands apart from many mixmasters if only in his ability to dig into intense psyche stimulating artists. This two CD set will change your take on the tracks as originally recorded and allow you to build appreciation for lingual artistes you've come to explore. This CD set is a SOLID GOLD buy - a few listens and you'll be wondering why it isn't broadcast nationally, if only to set the standard of hip hop that should be aired.

Holy S**t!!
I just got ahold of this cd and have been listening to disc two over and over again. This is quite possibly the best hip-hop cd i've ever heard. Truth be told, not every cut is tops, but the songs that are good are mind-numbingly, jaw-droppingly good and fully justify buying this cd. Check out "Blessing the Visionaries," "Without a Doubt Jurassic 5," "From the Ground Up," and tracks #3-7 on disc two. Amazing beats and very talented MC's.

On some other ...like two different flies.......
This is deffinately one of the better compilation albums out there in the world of the hippin and the hoppin. Not only are 95 percent of the tracks and exclusives, freestyles and so on very very good on there own, there is the added element of the turntable wizardry that the junkies are the epitomy of. Very nicely mixed, the tracks are very nicely juggled and scratched, in old funkmaster flex stlye, and the beat junkies pieces are pure tablism. This album will pull everyone who listens too it into the world of "real" hip-hop and the world of turntablism.

hip hop
i was turned on to beat junkies the second after i got volume one. the collection of artists and top rate scratch mixed to provide some true hip hop. volume two is the same and more of it. every mc you could dream of is on this cut, and rhetmattic burns some seriouse wax. this is true hip hop my friends, and even if you dont like hip hop you should own this

Directions.
After abandoning commercial rap/hiphop in 1995, I started to make my own compilations of the hiphop/rap I could stand. With the popularity of Funkmaster Flex and the release of a new CD by Kid Koala, turntablism and freestyle hiphop are here to stay. DJ Rhettmatic from the Beat Junkies take us on a trip through turntablism, underground rap, and freestyle rhyming. To those looking for an album with "anthems" you will remember, look elsewhere. Freestyle is all about improvising and battling. Every track is seemlessly mixed together. It's amazing this album is sold so cheaply as it could easily be packaged into two separate compact discs. Get this CD anyway you can if you have an open mind to different forms of hiphop (vs commercial hiphop/rap) or happen to like the flavor of underground east coast hiphop/freestyle with a touch of turntablism. Keep up the good work Beat Junkies, you have brought me back to the world of hiphop(I was on a 5 year electronic music vacation...:P) ... Read more