12/04/2008

DJ Drez & Marty Williams - The Complete Moon Bay Sessions

Say It Loud Music

DJ Drez & Marty Williams - The Complete Moon Bay Sessions

This record must be one of the most successful hip hop/jazz collaborations in years, because it explores each genre's dialogistic features while remaining true to the DNA code of both. The Moon Bay Sessions are a feel-good take on fusionism which ultimately has the listener wonder how the two genres could ever live separately.

In a tradition that goes back to the acid jazz scene in the late 90s, DJ Drez makes the bed where legendary Bay Area pianist Marty Williams puts his syncopated notes to sleep. "The Complete Moon Bay Sessions" also feature a handful of guests that only add up to the overall magnetic characteristics of the album.

Lacking the lipstick often in excess in some downtempo sessions, "Don’t Know Why" is a high-caloric number that builds up from the loose piano and the rapper’s delight to the incredibly warm voice of Nikko. Following that, "Maleah", featuring Grouch and Zaire Black, is the first time that hip hop truly shows its delivery, even if punctuated by sax-driven dives into the night.

But if you’re looking for an emblematic dialogue between styles, "Mr. DJ Piano" is the living proof that hip hop and jazz actually talk to each other and no love is lost in the process. "Jazz Funk" welcomes James Brown in the already overcrowded jam session. And while doing so, it spreads the lethargic disease even further – a move later seconded by the incredible "Reason for Funk". This one features Domonic Dean Breaux, an experienced neo-soul artist based in the States.

"Sun Moon" evolves from the dichotomy sunshine/moonlight, which is key to the understanding of these Moon Bay Sessions. While most will likely go for the moonlight, this 18-track journey can also be enjoyed under daylight, especially in the early hours of the morning. For details, please refer directly to the brilliant "Keep the Feel", as augmented by Abstract Rude and Myka Nyne. Sweet!

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