I was just thinking yesterday how good the album Last Exit from Junior Boys was, and how I don't think any work after that really lived up to it... But after some serious radio silence Junior Boys come back to us with some VERY JB-ish remixes. I especially enjoy the treatment they give Sally Shapiro's song "Jackie"... a very Miss Kitten-esque track with depressive aloof German-accented chick talking over sultry beats.
The King of Deep Sass-house, Derrick Carter NEVER disappoints!
What makes Derrick Carter so interesting as an artist and stand out as a powerhouse in the dance music industry? His talent for songwriting and production. What makes him stand out as a DJ? The style and ease with which he selects/mixes tracks during his live sets. Some adjectives that come to mind: flawless, funky, soulful, teasing, focused. Oh yeah, and there's this 'little' record label he ran called Classic Recordings. Heard of that? I hope so. They only released 100 tracks, as envisioned by Mr. Carter himself upon the inception of the label. Cool? Si. As a house DJ I think Classic is indispensable, treasured, and truly classic.
Personally, this 'army of one' has shaped the way I listen to music, the way I select records and my style of mixing. Derrick is not your average "I'm such a superstar international DJ". He keeps a low profile, and he has never used his influence to shamelessly self-promote the way some jocks do (ahem! I'm looking at YOU Europe/Australia blowhards). His sets, his label, and his recorded mixes are always showcasing not just his music, but music that has either been shaking asses for years, or will be shaking them for years to come. Some trivia that makes me love the guy even more - he doesn't OVER-USE the effects processor on the Pioneer CDJ when he plays live. You know those (C)DJs who think they can pull a fast one on the ears of their discerning audience by laying on the effects bravado extra-heavy. Barf. Derrick doesn't do that.
This Roisin Murphy track is kinda old, but the twerk it has recently been given upgrades it to totally fresh & jacking. Check it out and let me know what you think. This one makes me wiggle! Roisin Murphy - Ruby Bleu @ B.H.Q. (Derrick Carter remix)
