Jehst’s previous work as an MC is essential listening for anyone interested in independent hip hop. The High Plains Drifter EP and the full length Falling Down are both exceptionally strong releases, chiefly for Jehst’s impeccable flows and intriguing lyical content. He achieves a rare density and energy, and has mastered the art of ‘signifying’ in the Henry Gates Jnr sense. Its mysterious to me why he hasn’t featured on more releases.
Jehst doesn’t rap at all on this, which is disappointing because he’s more interesting than most of the MC’s on this collection. There are certainly some high points though, the Sundragon shine over some lovely stripped back funk. Rodney P is another highlight, doing his thing over a nice organ sample.
But: and I say this with a certain regret because I have plenty of respect for Jehst’s previous work – this is a fairly pedestrian release. Its not that its bad, its just not good. There are too many samples featuring on their umpteenth release, and there is none of the Earth Shaking bass lines or disconcerting grit that characterised the production on Falling Down. This album disappoints me because Jehst represents a rare meeting of orthodoxy and real artistry, and this seems like a step backward.
Having said that, this will be welcomed by some heads who’ll drool at the thought of Jehst interpretations of their favourite tracks, and adherents to a purist production ethic will feel safe in this familiar territory.
