RJD2

A critically acclaimed producer from Ohio, RJD2 concocts dramatic instrumental tracks by fusing layers of samples with random soundbites. Like DJ Shadow, his unusual style strikes a chord with listeners of all genres, not just hip-hop fans. Dead Ringer, his debut LP, was released by powerhouse indie label Def Jux (home to El-P, Mr. Lif, and Cannibal Ox).

Instrumental hip-hop that's deep in the Shadow vein on his solo debut, Columbus, Ohio,
producer Rjd2 takes a brooding cinemascope approach to hip-hop that is undeniably
influenced by DJ Shadow's 1996 album, Endtroducing. . . . Although the student does not
outstrip the master, Rjd2 has clearly been doing his homework. The searing opener, "The
Horror," reeks of claustrophobic, spy-vs.-spy subterfuge, and "Ghostwriter" use... More >