Back in ’08 I started to get into Japanese hip hop pretty heavily. I cycled through most of the popular DJ’s out there and was impressed by their use of soul and jazz samples. One thing in particular attracted me to some artists over others – the use of MC’s. Nujabes is no doubt my favorite for this very reason, but a few others have also done this with much success, notably DJ Krush. Although, I’ve checked out a couple of his albums and really enjoyed it, I think I need to take another look at this talented DJ.
Only the Strong Survive is one of only a handful I listen to of his on a regular basis. CL Smooth’s, featured MC on the track low-toned, voice glides soulfully over Krush’s jazz instrumentals. What does me in on this track is the kick drum along with the brass instrumentals, really hits the ear right. Give it a listen and give a shout out to your favorite DJ from Japan (I want more!).
[audio:OnlytheStrongSurvive.mp3|titles=Only the Strong Survive](Download Link in Full Article)