|
DJ-Love, mixtape DJ
and producer from Queens, NY, has been bubbling on the
underground circuit for quite some time now. Mostly known for
his �Best Of� series of CD�s (Ghostface Killa Hidden Darts, Nas�
Finest and Rakim Legends, to name a few), he�s also produced
tracks for the likes of Jay Z (�Stop�), 50 Cent (�Gangsta Shit�)
and Nas �You Know My Style Remix�). With mixtapes dating back to
96, his first record deal circa �97, �98 and Mixtape Awards in
1998, 2002 and 2003, it�s a surprise is not better renowned, for
now.
Keeping to his mantra of only playing what he feels, Better Your
Life is a compilation of J-Love produce original tracks and
remixes with various mainstream, old school and underground
artists. If you�re an old school head you�re going to want to
check for Slick Rick�s �Trouble� and Masta Ace�s �N.F.L.� If
you�re more into the newer school wielders, Mobb Deep & 50
Cent�s �Clap Them Thangs� and Cuban Link & Jadakiss�s �Talk
about It� will be right up your alley. The album is stacked with
a murder�s row of top notch artists that make stellar
appearances, including Raekwon, Kool G Rap, Cormega, Ghostface,
Big Pun and Big L.
J-Love is an accomplished producer. His use of punchy drum
patterns, emotive horns, sinister keys and sharp percussion as
sonic accompaniment are reminiscent of NYC underground street
tracks of the early to mid 90�s. Gritty tracks made for ghetto
ballads or battle raps with equal aplomb. While J-Love�s
production is on point, his flow and hooks can leave a lot to be
desired. Good thing there are only there of these slip ups on
this 25 track disc. If you�re looking for good beats, rhymes,
and something different from your average mainstream mixtape,
you need to holla at J-Love |
