:: J. Dilla - Donuts

J. Dilla

If you ask the common hip hop listener whether they heard of Jay Dilla, they would shake their head in puzzlement. But once you mention to them the seminal tracks that he produced for such high profile artists such as Busta Rhymes, Common and A Tribe Called Quest their eye brows would immediately shoot up in recognition and appreciation. Such was the wonder and tragedy of this great artist. Everybody knew his beats but he still didn‘t get the respect that he deserved. The saddest irony is that with his latest recording, 'Donuts’, released three days before his death, Jay D may finally get the recognition that eluded him through out his career. ‘Donuts’ is a kaleidoscope of great beats and brilliant soul samples. The influences on display here are mostly from the Motown era. Vocal samples from Dionne Warkwick and Eddie Kendricks are some that were used in this largely instrumental album. These samples were left untouched, something that is uncommon with most modern hip hop producers who prefer to speed up the vocals (Kanye West) for maximum pop effect. It is this respect for the old and his modern sonic innovation that made Jay D such a brilliant and in-demand producer. ‘Donuts’ is an album that was mostly recorded on his hospital bed. You can feel that with this album Jay Dilla tried to infuse all of the ideas and themes that he played with through out his career and distill them all in this 31-track package. It is a beautiful, melancholy journey that is moving and constantly rewarding. Do yourself a favour, put on your headphones and listen to ‘Donuts’. It may not change your life but it will make you appreciate it all the more; something that Jay Dilla always done throughout his short but brilliant career.