Return to Sender

So, after a almost year and a couple days hiatus, I have decided to bring back them savory reviews. What could possibly bring the hype machine back from extinction might you be asking; Mark Ronson's new album "Version." Dude puts in Tim the Toolman like work on this cover song driven roller coaster. Collaborations with Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen, Kenna, and the underrated Daptone Horns Section give the album its character and balls. However its the unexpected cover of Britney Spear's summer jam "Toxic" that made me googley eyed. Stew up a horn section, smooth drums and the vocals of Ol' Dirty Bastard and you have a monster. The energy doesn't stop there. Each track is layered with raw melodies and especially emphasized are his drums of gold. How do you do it Mark? It's almost like the soul and rhythm of the 60's and 70's are reborn through his music. Daniel Merriweather gives "Stop Me" a new vibe and definitely redefines it's original greatness. I still recall waking up to Donald Duck cartoons with the original by the Supremes blaring out during some scenes. Timeless records are becoming more and more hard to find in an age of the daily download and update. "Version" gives a revival to the hope that new shit is about to break new grounds after such a long hibernation.

- coincidenceuno

(buy my album people, Oatmeal With Rhymes, www.myspace.com/coincidenceuno)