Search - Up Bustle & Out :: Compared to What

Another Heavy Hitter

The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 07/30/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you know anything about Up Bustle & Out, it's that these guys can do no wrong. Along these lines, this is an EP associated with "Light 'Em Up, Blow 'Em Out." As with the parental album, this music features a seductive meeting between acoustic/analog elements, techno style beats and like-minded digital processing. Considering the illustriousness of the initial LP, this EP meets expectations. Many Up Bustle & Out discs have a theme and "Compared to What / Emerald Alley" is no exception. While 'worldly' is an accurate descriptor of the corresponding LP, the guys narrow the focus as this premise loosely revolves around that which is exotic. 'Emerald Alley (Indian Morning Theme)' starts off like a classical raga. Before you know it, the tablas kick in and the piece moves into overdrive with big beats and digital layering. As one of the strongest tracks, the improvisational sitar work is stellar. 'Compared to What (Chase Mix)' plays old skool style rap with heavy chunks of funk. The Beats remix of 'Emerald Alley' features a stripped down version that does not include the classical introduction or sitar part. Such a similar version might get old before it even hits the ears, but somehow it still shines. 'Emerald Alley (Maharani's Reflection Mix)' is a slower version of the title track. The Radio Mix version of 'Compared to What' is edited so that it cuts off about two minutes. As a shorter version of a fun song, it offers no epiphanies. 'Amber Prayer' is an odd closer. It features what sounds like an Islamic recitation. The male voice is unaided by musical instruments or digital enhancements. Coming off a wild digital ride, the recitation offers a peaceful closure. All in all, this EP features various remixes of two fantastic songs with the 'Amber Prayer' thrown on the tail end. As with most EPs, those with the LP already own most of these songs so the potential consumer has to decide if the price is worth a couple new tracks. As an enchanted mental trip, "Compared to What / Emerald Alley" is sure to transport the listener away to a virtual country."