RJD2 Refines His Signature Sound on ‘Visions Out of Limelight’
RJD2 felt he was getting pigeonholed for his sample-based style, only to be lambasted when diverting from it. On his new album, he embraces his true muse.
Kyle Cochrun
Kyle Cochrun is a writer from Akron, Ohio.
Slum Village Boldly Take Hip-Hop to the Disco
Nearly a decade since their last album, T3 and Young RJ continue Slum Village’s legacy as a duo, bringing the group’s sound into a mature yet danceable space.
Exploring the Hip-Hop Vibration with Hank Shocklee
Tying in his legacy to a new short film trilogy, legendary Public Enemy/Bomb Squad producer Hank Shocklee traces the line from his classic grooves to our modern sound.
Funk Producer Jamma-Dee Distorts Time on ‘Perceptions’
Despite not playing an instrument growing up, Jamma-Dee’s love of crate-digging and funk soon birthed their own colorful contribution to the genre.
RP Boo Traces the Chicago House Roots of Footwork
Foundational footwork producer RP Boo takes us through the history of the influential electronic genre, a mutant offshoot of ghetto house that makes you dance.
Buscrates Brings Real Heart and Soul to Vintage Synth-Funk
In crafting his own brand of hip-hop-inspired instrumental funk, Buscrates proves on his latest album he’s a student of the great producers who’ve come before.
Once Upon a Time in the Northeast with Kid Koala
The beloved Canadian turntablist Kid Koala knows the secret to success: always push for the new and unexpected. No wonder his new album comes with a board game.
DJ Sun Discusses His Immigrant Roots and ‘Loveletter’ to Music
DJ Sun discusses how he started DJing, his process for making albums, sampling 1970s porn records, and recording an LP about discovering his Chinese heritage.
The Orielles Break Old Patterns with a Film and a Card Deck
From releasing films as a band to using Brian Eno’s card deck to help guide the sound of their epic new double-LP, the Orielles remain as indescribable as ever.
Mike Paradinas on His IDM Sound From the 1990s to Now
Electronic music legend Mike Paradinas is having a big year, with the 25th-anniversary edition of the classic Lunatic Harness, as well as the new LP Magic Pony Ride.
DJ Amir Is Fighting for Detroit’s Musical Underdogs with Jazzanova
Jazzanova’s DJ Amir has fought for the musical underdog, and with the Strata Records catalog now readily available, Detroit soul and jazz are getting a glow-up.
Homeboy Sandman Stays Fly and Authentic on ‘There in Spirit’
Homeboy Sandman represents the hip-hop ethos with a sound that’s not in the contemporary mainstream but not a nostalgic throwback either. He’s pure hip-hop.