Remember Jaydiohead? It was that awesome mash-up album of Jay-Z and Radiohead that dropped in December of ‘08 and introduced the world to producer Max Tannone. He’s back, this time with an album called Mos Dub, which mashes my personal favorite Mos Def with roots reggae.
Each of the 10 tracks expertly lays a Mos Def vocal track over a reggae instrumental, usually weaving in some chorus vocals from the reggae song as well. The Mos Def tracks are well chosen from throughout his career, and Tannone has dug up 10 absolutely gorgeous reggae tunes. Each song is perfectly paired and mixed, far past the point of the novelty mash-up and well into the territory of true art and incredibly enjoyable music. The excellent production creates a showcase for the fact that Mos Def’s deep, smooth voice works beautifully with the vibes of ‘70s Jamaica.
Sometimes the sunny upbeats give a very relaxing vibe that wasn’t there in the original, as is the case in “History Town” (“History”, from The Ecstatic, and “007 (Shanty Town)” by Desmond Dekker and the Aces). Sometimes it goes the other way, and the reggae track takes on a darker tone, as in “In My Math” (“Mathematics” from Black on Both Sides, and “Your Teeth In My Neck” by Scientist).
If you like reggae and hip-hop, you have no reason not to pick up this album, because it’s free! Download individual tracks or the whole album at Mosdub.com. Tannone has once again displayed his incredible mash-up talent, and the album provides a new, brilliant way to experience Mos Def for long-time fans and new listeners alike. If you like it, also be sure to check out its equally excellent companion album, Dub Kweli.
[audio:History-Town.mp3,Travellin-Underground.mp3|titles=History Town, Travellin’ Underground]
Download: History Town | Travellin’ Underground
Mos Dub:
Release Date: April 6, 2010
Download: MosDub.com
Max Tannone:
Genre: Mash-up/remix
Styles: Hip-hop, reggae, electronic
Origin: New York City
Birth Name: Max Tannone
Aliases: Minty Fresh Beats
Albums (All free downloads): Jaydiohead (Jay-Z vs. Radiohead) | Doublecheck Your Head (Beastie Boys vs. Beastie Boys) | Dub Kweli (Talib Kweli vs. Roots Reggae)
Similar Artists: Wait What | The Hood Internet
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