One thing I’ve learned over the years is that music is not a one-stop station. It’s a journey. There are artists that are masters at the craft, and simply watching (or listening to) their varied evolutions can be a learning experience in itself. And there are artists that are newer to the scene. They soak up all that wisdom to create something entirely new.
As no song is an island to itself, I like to feature both types of artists. After all, where would Lou Reed be without Ella Fitzgerald? At first, that might not make sense, but after listening to Reed’s “Goodnight Ladies” as it flows into Ella’s “Solid as a Rock,” the connection becomes clear.
I don’t think John Tejada and Reggie Watts thought about Mad Professor when making their new music, but “Black Orpheus Dub” seems like a ready reference to Wajatta’s “Don’t Let Get You Down.” At least that what it sounds like to me.
These are just two moments in time captured on the February edition of Alternate Take on dublab. Have a listen and get grounded.
I’m really looking forward to read more on this topic.