This week's "Tales From TapeDeck" introduces Shammy Dee outta the "818" (www.shammydee.com and www.MySpace.com/ShammyDee) as he reviews the following two mix cd's featuring Jay-Z:

Beirut’s "Jay-Z Beirut Gangster":

Jay-Z seems to have a recent cult following of remix albums following his original releases (see the "Black Album" and the colorful variety of remixes following suit!).  It’s been similar with "American Gangster" and the release of full accapellas.  With barrages of mixtapes droppin', it can be difficult to stand out above the rest. 

But, Beirut’s contribution is an exceptional remix album that truly stands out.  This remix album took the basis of Jigga’s album, incorporating the sounds of the 70’s and followed through a step further.  Producer Beirut did an excellent job with matching original and well-arranged beats against the lyrical mood and content of each song.  You can hear the precision of arrangement throughout the whole album.  Each cut stands out on its own, with some tracks that could outshine even the original.  Some of the standout tracks are, "Pray,"  "American Dreamin" and "American Gangster" to name but a few. 

This one is not just for Jay-Z fans, but for those who love good music and are big fans of the soulful era of music.  You will not be disappointed. 

You can peep out Beirut on MySpace at: www.MySpace.com/Beirut
Or to get laced, call: 818.451.7474

Funkdaddy and Mistah Clark’s "West Coast American Gangster":

A lot of remix albums are similar to mash ups, taking acapellas and placing them over current beats or classic hits of the past.  With Funkdaddy and Mistah Clark’s remix album, they take classic West Coast instrumentals juxtaposed against Jay-Z’s American Gangster acapellas. 

It was a good effort in matching the lyrical mood and content to the large library of Left Coast bangers!!  Some of the tracks shine well, “Blue Magic” with the Luniz’ “I Got 5 On It”, American Gangster with NWA’s “Straight Outta Compton”, and a dope stand out mesh with “I Know” matched with Bone Thugs “Crossroads”.  But some cuts don’t necessarily hit the mark in matching up mood with beats, like "Party Life"and Roc Boys.  Although it’s not a stand out remix album, this mixtape is definitely one to swoop for those who hold the West Coast close to their Caddies and locs.

You can peep both FunkDaddy & Mistah Clark on MySpace at:

www.MySpace.com/FunkDaddyOfficial

www.MySpace.com/MistahClark

Or to get laced: MistahClark@gmail.com
 

You can hit me up with your latest mixtape news and/or events at: nastynes1@aol.com or at: nastynes1@tmail.com...

I'm in like Barak Obama & I'm out like Hillary Clinton!