March 19th, 2004 3:22pm
You Better Wake Up
Bibson & Xuman “Kay Jel Ma” – This is taken from the Trikont compilation Africa Raps, which is a remarkable sampler of hip hop from Senegal, Gambia, and Mali. It’s a peculiar thing to hear Africans putting their own spin on an African American form rather than the reverse – African producers borrowing from the production styles of DJ Premier, Dr. Dre, Timbaland, and Swiss Beatz seems to bring something full circle, though I’m not quite sure what that may be. I recommend hearing the full record – Bibson & Xuman’s Rawkus/DJ Premier-ish style is only one part of a bigger picture that the compilation presents. If you have any interest in how hip hop translates into other cultures, this record is a must-have.
Also: The WFMU 2004 marathon is almost over, and if you still haven’t gotten around to pledging yet, please do so as soon as you can! A perfect opportunity to do so will be during Gaylord Fields’ program on Saturday evening from 6 to 8 PM EST, when he will be joined by guest host Tom Scharpling and Yo La Tengo, who will play any song you request if you pledge at least $100. The annual Yo La Tengo covers show during the marathon is always a lot of fun and full of surprises, so be sure to tune in because these performances are never archived on the site.
I’ll be answering phones at the station tomorrow morning from 9 am to noon, so you could always call in then and I will personally take your pledge!