The Columbus, Ohio, forward-thinking musician and producer, RJD2, emerged into the music scene in 2002 with his debut album, Deadringer. It displayed his skills as a producer and also exhibited his fondness for cinematic atmosphere, jazz and his ties to the underground hip-hop scene. As of June 2024, he added an eighth studio album to his discography with his newest album release, Visions Out Of Limelight. The Hip-Hop album is filled with grooves, deep basslines and is structured around a melodic core. By exploring new concepts throughout the album and demonstrating his curiosity for new sounds, he offers listeners the chance to also explore these new concepts, challenging them as a producer and musician.
For the opening track, “Cold Eggs,” listeners are immediately drawn in by the organic instruments coexisting harmoniously for the duration of the track. That being a great drum beat carrying on throughout, one similar to a marching band, accompanied by a trumpet creating an upbeat track. Voices are also scattered in the background, creating a vivid scene of people gathered together to enjoy a band performance. The layering of sounds here is a meticulous and textured experience that is entwined throughout the whole album.
To add on, another track that exemplifies this layering is, “Through it All,” which features a vocal assist from the British singer Jamie Lidell. Different elements seamlessly fuse together throughout the track. Beginning with an amusing bubble-like popping sound drawing in a pulse-slowing impact from the gorgeous piano laced throughout the song. As these elements fuse together it creates a soothing passage for listeners, creating a sense of comfort with vocals and a tranquil beat.
The other eleven tracks explore similar concepts, while also showcasing his ability to incorporate disparate sounds such as funk and flamenco. One of the tracks that displays this is the closing track on the album, “Asphalt Lamentations.” Being the perfect conclusion, it fuses together different instruments previously heard throughout the album, the guitar, piano, drum, trumpet, flute and many more. It’s a perfect way to leave listeners, showcasing his ability to bring together different genres like funk and hip-hop. That way, listeners exit the album with a subtle reminder of his skillful versatility.
RJD2’s experimental sounds have been heard throughout the music scene for many years. His latest album, Visions Out Of Limelight, is a testament to his skills as a musician and producer. His ability to bring together different genres and instruments in a distinctive way is what makes his music stand out.
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