Emphasizing melody & rhythm
Double Cup is the debut LP from Chicago producer DJ Rashad. It’s a high-octane collection of dance tracks that distinguishes itself from the rest of the Chicago footwork scene by emphasizing melody as much as rhythm and high BPMs. “Show U How,” for instance, utilizes sped up soul-samples to create a lush, Kanye West-on-speed type groove, while “Let U Know” uses a smooth R&B sample as the backbone of a frantic, beat-driven track. Innovative tracks like these are truly a breath of fresh air compared to most of the electronic music that’s floating around the internet these days. This album isn’t immediately sonically accessible, but rewards repeated listens. A must-hear for fans of modern electronic and instrumental hip-hop.
RIYL: Burial, Four Tet, Flying Lotus
REC: 2, 1, 13, 5
Reviewed by Andy Miller