Rjd2 Album Editorial: RJD2 creates music thats not easy to pin down though everyone seems to try. The Columbus Ohio-based DJ-producer explores the same basic formula used by DJ Shadow and Moby but his style is more complex and refreshingly a hell of a lot less pretentious. Less bass-heavy than Shadows 1996 release IEndtroducing... (the album its often compared to) IDeadringer showcases RJD2s master ability to layer unusual samples with complex drum patterns funky grooves and original vocals. The 50s horror movie-sampled The Horror starts things off on the grunge tip and then the albums sound progresses into straight-up hip-hop break beats rock roll blues and more. Songs like the Jimi Hendrix-influenced Smoke and Mirrors and the honky-tonk soulfulness of 2 More Dead up the ante demonstrating just how far the trip-hop genre has progressed since the mid-90s. One of the most enjoyable albums of the year IDeadringer is an essential addition to your listening library. Rebecca Levine
