Edan - beauty and the beat

[Lewis Recordings: 2005]
In 2005 a white Jewish guy from Boston released this album. That year it made my top ten, but I had forgotten how good it is. Then I listened to it three times in a row a couple of days ago and it blew my mind so much I was dancing in my chair and I wanted to tell every single person around me to listen to it. So, the music: It’s a sample-crammed psychedelic suitcase packed with countless references – 60s pop, early rock styles, droning feedback, drum loops, 70s funk breaks, and jazz. Edan’s mic skills are astonishing – ruthlessly witty, completely inventive with a surrealist bent and an aggressive word-spitting flow that comes at you like a clenched fist, this record has so much you’ll never get bored. ‘Beauty and the Beat’ is like a time machine of hip hop goodness that is both one of the most refreshing standout rap albums of the last ten years and a genuinely respectful nod to the old school.
This record is so undeniably excellent that anyone who has ever had a Jones for hip hop needs to listen to it right now or, at the very least, tomorrow. I’m out of breath it’s so rad. Phew!

buy on itunes
edan on myspace
home