DJ Brokenwindow - Parallel Universe #1

scoundrel, May 26, 2004

While in theory I’m all for mash-ups, in theory, they’re a mixed bag, at best. Definitely, part of their charm depends on the original material being mashed together, and in that regard, DJ Brokenwindow’s Parallel Universe #1 is above the rest. He combines disparate musical elements (Dead Can Dance, New Order, Boards of Canada) and vocal elements (Salt N Pepa, Yes, Vanilla Ice) for interesting combinations. But even though they start out sounding great, usually around halfway, the harmony breaks down, and it just sounds bad. Also, there’s no fading between the mashed items, so that the two elements are given the same emphasis, making it sound as if the recording levels unbalanced. Still, there’s some fun to be heard: the harshness of D12 eased by the Thompson Twins on “Shit on My Side” or the Monster Mash of “Come to Perry.” Not entirely a disappointment, but some more creativity would be nice.

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