Prefuse 73 Album: “Reads the Books [EP]”

If you know the Books and Prefuse, then you know exactly what this collaboration will sound like. Its fantastic, don't get me wrong, but just as it starts to get going, its over. I've listened to it several times, suspecting that I would soon tire of it, but I haven't. Much like the Books' albums, they only grow over time as you engage in more in depth listening. Its actually interesting that clips from their last three albums make apppearances during the EP. However, a part of me was really expecting to be surprised by what I heard. Each of the Books' albums has been a surprise as they change and grow into their sound. So, something in me was hoping for that moment of "wow, I didn't see that coming." It never came, but the strength of this EP further lends credence to the importance of these two artists. It compliments their full-lengths, and is a must for fan of either artist. I used to be a huge fan of Prefuse (pre-surrounded by silence), and was glad to find him try his hand at something of this magnitude. Overall, a great listen, just not long enough, or adventurous enough......

I have grown to appreciate each Prefuse 73 album, despite their sometimes extreme difference in sound. After a few full lengths and some single eps, Prefuse 73 has explored both ends of the spectrum, from a more traditional hip-hop sound to a more electronic sound. This collaboration leans much more towards the electronic side, as there aren't guest rappers on this effort. I enjoy this the most out of his works. This just doesn't sound like much else that is out there, including his other works. This ep has enough innovation to keep the listener interested, however it is possible to sit back and enjoy this shorter release without concentrating too hard either.

Scott is still able to surprise, pulling tricks on his unexpecting listeners. Call it whatever you will this kind of skill is rare. Though his hip hop structure stays somewhat close to its roots, this music is more about the engineered textures constructed from source clippings and shavings. The beats he carves leave scattered sawdust that absorb the nitroglycerine leaking throughout and blow it back in your face. Hating on this does not make you cool folks, it makes you wrong

Prefuse 73 is a band I just recently got into. This being the first thing I've heard from them, it's really quite astonishing. It's electronic music in the vein of DJ Shadow, but it also has some weird Spanish instruments in it too, along with strange vocals and violins. It's pretty relaxing stuff, but at the same time, it's good crusing music too. If you are into electronic indie music like DJ Shadow and The Books (which this E.P. is remixing, by the way), then get this. You won't be dissapointed.