THE FUTURE IS NOW

There are people in this world who can make music with a needle and a pile of records. They are called DJs, but I think they are really magicians. DJs make magic with the drumbeat, which is the single most primitive thing we as living, breathing things can relate to. If you don’t believe me, understand you have the first drumbeat ever played right inside your chest. DJs take this primitive sound, and make music for the future. People who like to label things call this music hip-hop, or techno, or jungle, or drum ‘n bass. Certain peoples in San Francisco recognize it for what it truly is, and call it the Future Primitive Sound. They even started a record label by the same name. Past Future Primitive Sound releases were live recordings of actual Future Primitive Sound sessions (where badass turntablists worked their magic live in front of an audience). One features DJs Cut Chemist and Shortkut, the other features Z-Trip and Radar of the Bombshelter Crew. The newest Future Primitive release is Urban Revolution-- a compilation showcasing DJs who know no boundaries and limitations. And it’s all good. There isn’t one point in the disc where you get bored and skip tracks. That’s a rare feat for a compilation. But if you want a quick sample of the record’s magic, I recommend the following tracks:
”Strudel Strut” from Aromadozeski Therapy - It starts off with a bizarre vocal sample about the 16th century, eases into a Cuban rhythm and then, to quote Chuck D, “Here come the drums.” It’s a beautiful big beat boat ride.
“Invitation to Hell” by Presage featuring Mr. Dibbs & Jel - It scores the end of the world with cinematic beauty. The East Indian instrumentation that eases you in is the calm before the storm. When the drums roll in, you can almost see the skies go black. And when the rhythms change up and the fuzz guitar chimes in, you feel like you’ve just entered purgatory.
“Downtime” from DJ Z-Trip - This is my absolute favorite track on the album just for its sheer simplicity. It’s very cool, very mellow. And the acoustic guitar makes it sound Pink Floyd-ish in a good way.
To get it for yourself, check a good record store near you or scout the label’s website here.