Hit Parade Posted by mike

Kool G Rap: On the Run (remix) From Modern Hits EP (Dinkytown, 2002) Rakim: Follow the Leader (remix) From More Modern Hits (Dinkytown, 2003) Andrew Broder (aka Fog) takes the concept of remixing into deep leftfield with these two EPs. In fact, calling Broder's song treatments 'remixes' is almost an understatement. He abducts hip-hop acapellas from their native habitats and transplants them in totally strange new musical surroundings. The tense bass/guitar interplay during "On the Run" expands Kool G Rap's already vivid verses to cinematic proportions. The moaning vocal chorus gives the track a mournful tone - there's no triumph here, only weariness and resignation. "Follow the Leader" gets launched into deep space, Rakim's raps drowned by flying-saucer drones and washed-out dub effects. In this context, "let's travel at magnificent speeds around the universe" takes on a whole new significance. Sometimes these remixes are way too abstract for me to listen to, but on other days I think they're brilliant. Decide for yourself.