Search - J-Dilla :: The Shining Instrumentals

Better than the version with lyrics!!

David L. Vance | Altalnta | 01/12/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you're like me and you appreciate the true artistry of HIP-HOP production, but, don't like the vulgarity that is so prevalent in RAP (which is merely a part of HIP-HOP not the embodiment of the culture) then you will truly enjoy this piece. It features J's usual crazy assortment of sound, and seemingly misplaced samples as in the Donuts album. But after listening to it for a while its funny how it can change your perception. On the whole I really enjoyed this album.



Some of the tracks that stood out were:



"E=MC2" (A funky little mix. Sort of reminiscent of that early 80's atomic dogg sound)



"Love" (A nice example of J's precision cutting and mixing)



"So Far To go" (Nice little Isley Brother's chop) J definitely loves the Isley Brothers. Look at "Won't Do".



and more.....



There's a very old school R&B feel to this album. No doubt influenced by his final days with his mom. True fans of Dilla will also notice that in his later life he was a lot more infatuated with Love. Look at the themes of many of his final songs: Love Jones, Love, Baby, So far To Go, Jungle Love. Even on the "Donuts" album songs like: U-Luv. This is a far cry from the old days of "What love got to do wit it? Ask S V it's all B** S***". Facing life and death does that to a person. We'll miss you Jay Dee-Jay Dilla. Your gone for now but there's a hope so "Don't Cry".



In conclusion buying this album is a no brainer; it's definitely worth every penny.

"

Just a fraction of his light

nosa | Billings, MT | 01/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Jay Dee or J Dilla, whichever name you know, the sound is always uncanny. If you don't know, start with "Labcabincalifornia" and work your way up the years to these unfortunately posthumous releases. Dilla was a master. Thank you J Dee. I prefer the unadulterated instrumentals that allow the listener to experience Dilla's use of simplicity and nuance without interruption. Buy it!"