The Prince Paul led hip-hop collective BROOKZILL! has released its second single, “Mad Dog in Yoruba”. The group, which consists of Paul, Digable Planet’s Ladybug Mecca, producer Don Newkirk (De La Soul), and Brazilian rapper Rodrigo Brandão (aka Gorila Urbano), debuted its first single, “Saudade Songbook”, in August.
“Mad Dog in Yoruba” features legendary Brazilian singer Fafá De Belém, who sings the track’s hook, and production duo Metá Metá (Kiko Dinucci and Thiago França). Ladybug Mecca and Brandão handle the track’s two verses.
The single skips along in a bizarre, but rewarding fusion of Daisy Age production and Brazilian instrumentals. Ladybug Mecca, relatively dormant for many years, sounds lively over traditional horns and percussion, smoothly blending into the busy mix. Brandão sounds less assured, but fits well within the Brazilian rhythms.
Despite the heavy Brazilian influence, Paul and Newkirk’s influence is highly palpable. “Mad Dog in Yoruba” consists primarily of Brazilian sounds, but these sounds are arranged in a classical East Coast hip-hop fashion.
The collective recently announced they will hold their first show at SOB’s in New York City on September 14. Their upcoming album, Throwback to the Future, is out October 7 via Tommy Boy. The album will feature artists including Del The Funky Homosapien, Count Bass D, Kid Koala, Mr. Len, & Brian Jackson.