Every once in a while something comes out that really makes people stop for a minute. This is one of those releases. Originally released on Def Jux back in 2002, Deadringer was producer RJD2's full length solo debut. By this point he had already made a name for himself in the underground circuit as producer for Mhz, but I don't think many people fully expected Deadringer to be this much of an accomplishment. The first three tracks are a pretty good gauge for where the album stands. It begins with the giant sci-fi scope of "The Horror," followed by the mellow soul of "Smoke + Mirrors," and finally the arena rocking "Let The Good Times Roll pt 2." All of them are expertly constructed pieces of sample-based production, working with big themes while maintaining that elusive soulful element. Most importantly, the tracks have movement: rolling through beat changes, hook-driven choruses, tastefully placed vocal samples and skratch sessions. For further evidence check out "Ghostwriter" and "2 More Dead." Its pretty hard not to make the knee-jerk Shadow (Endtroducing) connections here, but that really isn't such a bad thing. 16 tracks total, three with emcees including "June" with Copywrite.

• dark green colored double vinyl pressing (please note: vinyl color is very dark, may appear black under normal lighting)
• limited edition
• original release year: 2002
• music label: RJ's Electrical Connections 2024

reviewed by Cray Fish 07/2015