All Things Deep - Reviews - Grandmaster Flash: Essential Mix

Grandmaster Flash - Essential Mix: Classic Edition

Grandmaster Flash is a central figure in the history of DJ culture. It was his mastery of cut-and-mix techniques, immortalized in "The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash," that exposed the world to the DJ as a performer and defined turntablism.

So it comes as a surprise that his edition of the Essential Mix series is more Paradise Garage than Disco Fever. Recalling the era of neighborhood block parties, this expertly chosen blend of classics is like unearthing a vintage mix from Tee Scott rather than a hip-hop pioneer.

All eras of party music are accounted for, starting with relentless funk from Jimmy Castor and Cymande, and moving through MFSB's disco chesnut "Love Is The Message" before exploring the progressive street sounds of the post-disco age courtesy of Liquid Liquid, Nu Shooz and Rockers Revenge. He even throws in some soul weekender cuts from Fatback and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, bringing it all back home.

While his skills were largely undocumented during his prime, this disc serves as a potent reminder of why he's considered a legend among DJs of all genres.

Released 2002 on Warner Brothers
(Click on cover to buy)

Selected Tracks:

Cymande - Bra
Blondie - Rapture
D Train - You're the One For Me
Liquid Liquid - Cavern
Maze - Before I Let Go