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Switching
up the usual humdrum remix efforts on Hip Hop cuts nowadays
courtesy So-So Def/JD & P Diddy, the effect of the
Contemporary/Smooth Jazz & Hip Hop hybrid is refreshing and
welcome with the newly released Hidden Beach Recordings
Presents Unwrapped – Vol. 1. Not only does Unwrapped blend
these every changing genres together, it also offers up
grooves that both jazz lovers AND Hip Hop heads can appreciate
all in this one well-orchestrated musical package.
Produced by DJ Tony Joseph and Daryl Ross, listeners get
jazzed-up instrumental versions of Hip Hop joints with
highlights that include: “I Get Around” (Tupac), “Stan” (Eminem),
“Ms. Jackson” & “So Fresh & So Clean” (Outkast), “The Light”
(Common), “You Got Me” (The Roots), “Danger (Been So Long)” (Mystikal)
and “One More Chance” (Biggy Smalls).
I got a sampling of this project at the Jill Scott concert at
the Pier back in the summer and was digging this new way of
listening to Hip Hop. What started out as a mini jam session
amongst a group of seasoned musicians, turned into this unique
and welcome piece of work. With the likes of Patrice Rushen
(of “Forget Me Not” fame), Paul Jackson, Jr. (guitar), Karen
Briggs (violin), Everett Harp (saxophone), Andrew Gouche
(bass), Louis Van Taylor and Hidden Beach artist Mike Phillips
(saxophone) how can you go wrong? Audiences got an up close &
personal look at Mike Phillips as the opener for Jill’s “Words
& Sounds Summer Tour”.
I’ve had this CD in heavy rotation since I got it. One can’t
help but realize how closely the two music genres have been so
influential on music through the years and how such a
collaboration makes complete sense. One thing is for certain,
Hidden Beach Recordings is on the fast track to innovative
artists and projects. Can’t wait till Vol. 2!
For more information check out http://hiddenbeach.com/main.htm
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