DJ Set I can't Ado Much About - Didjè Tyson x B2S "Road to Summer in Paris (Live)"

Elders are to be respected.

Dancehall, however, should be revered.

Go forth and raise shrines. Jamaican vibes should be worshipped by I-and-I. Fortunately, open source blueprints have already been provided. No architect need be contracted. But although born of sound system culture, the concept has expanded beyond the Caribbean. A kami of musical styles, dancehall is ubiquitous. The influence is strong and boundless. Ties with hip-hop are evident and variations such as reggaeton spring forth on occasion. While immediately preceded by garage, drum 'n' bass, and jungle, the link between grime is firmly rooted in the swagger of champions.

The current selection is merely another branch on this firmly rooted tree.

In contrast to the above examples, though, what follows is not entirely an offshoot. Likewise, a free-standing hybrid, as in the sense of kwaito, does not seem wholly analogous. Alas, what follows is very much dancehall. The tradition of 1980s and 1990s beats is carried with modern aesthetic flare. But aside from the serendipitous live aspect, the mix below contains one more unique quality unique to its French origin. A local scene - a personal touch - is promoted. Which is to say that Jamaica is not the only island to be prominently featured. Granted, an english language track, not unlike Vybz Kartel's "Straight and Narrow," is bound to be heard. But, then again, so is  MrSM. Direct from Martinique with the song "2 Minutes Krazé Kay," the Antillean style is combines aspects of kizomba (vocals) and zouk (instrumentation) with reggae (harmony/melody) and dancehall (delivery). As in Puerto Rico, a familiar drum pattern is used to establish beat will frequently be syncopated by vocals; worthy of an exploratory post all its own.

On a DJ front, though, the ability to maintain a consistently high energy level throughout a half hour.



- J.N.

A Noggle Brain Trust, LLP. website