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People's Movement
Posted Mar 13 2006
By Daniel D. Zarazua
Review of DJ Defiant mix CD
If you believe big business, it’s easy to think that the world of hip hop is filled with sex-obsessed, violent-prone teens. The reality is that hip hop is multi-faceted and actually grew out of political struggle. With that in mind, Detroit’s DJ Defiant has been using his love for the music to help empower youth through various events and musical projects. His latest recording, “The People’s Movement” mix CD features 30 MCs rhyming about various topics, selected by Defiant himself. By overseeing the subject matter, including the effects of mass media, critiques of the free market economy, terrorism, and socialism, Defiant keeps things from getting overly repetitious. He sets the sonic backdrop with an excellent variety of underground beats laced with tight scratches and samples from Civil Rights rallies and the likes of Malcolm X, reinforcing why he’s one of the premier turntablists in the Midwest and beyond. Vocally, standouts include Miz Karona, CST, and Maz. On the flipside, too many of the MCs have lackluster lyrics and mediocre delivery. Unfortunately, some of Defiant’s guests can’t live up to his lofty expectations. Don’t get it twisted though, outside of the political context, the beat selection alone makes this CD well worth picking up. Even if you’re not a hip hop fan, “The Movement” opens up a window into the minds of young people giving serious thoughts to social justice issues. For more info, check out www.appreciateproductions.com (June 2002)
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