The Mix-Up

iTunes Review

You can be forgiven for sleeping on this album — it’s a decidedly low-key, spaced-out instrumental affair — but do it at your own peril. The beauty of this music lies in its simplicity (although the songs are neither beautiful nor simple). The Beasties throw together a mix of funky soul rhythms, gritty hip-hop beats, electronica flourishes, and psychedelic rock meanderings, all under the heavy influence of dub music. To say that the songs “go nowhere” is to entirely miss the point. Yes, their structures are basic, but, at their best, there are dense layers to be peeled away and enjoyed, and deep grooves to sink into. “Suco de Tangerina,” for example, begins with dub-style bass and keyboards before picking up a Latin-pop tinge, while “Electric Worm” boasts a distinct reggae feel ushered by slinky, sinuous guitar lines. “Freaky Hijiki” is an irresistible slice of subdued, trance-inducing funk while “B for My Name” is loungy, organ-driven soul jazz. Perhaps best of all are “The Gala Event” and “Off the Grid,” rock-oriented tracks that blend heavy, plodding beats with a heady dose of sonic experimentation. Some tracks definitely feel more half-baked than others, but there’s enough compelling sounds packed in to make The Mix-Up a worthwhile headphone experience.