Mashups by E-603

When I talk music with people I’ll often hear the complaint that music isn’t as good as it used to be.  If you really believe that then you are either very cynical, or not looking hard enough.  Of course there will always be great music in hindsight, but a quick Wikipedia search will tell you that popular music has always been littered with forgettable tracks. Just like the club rap and hip-pop of today it’s fun, catchy and popular.  Some of the tracks will survive the test of time, and others will be forgotten, and some teenager of the future will lament about how much better music was in the present then it was in there time. 

            One thing that surprises a lot of people is that I enjoy mashups.  The hooks are memorable, it’s easy to dance to, and everyone there has fun recognizing tracks.  Of course there are tons of other great dance tracks, and I don’t really listen to it much outside of parties, but there’s a time and a place for everything.  People who go to bar or a club to dance don’t want to debate the latest trends in music.  They want to dance and socialize, and just like everything else, music makes these activities better. 

When people ask me to put on some music in a social setting its not always an exact science.  Music that I would put on when I was by myself is not necessarily the best thing for a group of people.  I like to put on something that the most people will enjoy.  Mashups are normally a good place to start if you don’t really know the musical sensibilities of the group.  My first choice when choosing among the plethora of possible mashup artists out there is almost always E-603.

             I have never played his mixes without at least one person asking me for the info for the mashup artist.  He has a really great ear for pacing and finds great marriages for lyrics and beats.  I was lucky enough to do an interview with the New Hamster native backwhen I use to write for a blog semi-regularly.  He has 3 albums, a remix album, live album, and a new EP all of which you can check out (and download) on his website.  I would highly recommend getting some of stuff.  It’s a great addition to any house party or celebration, and I can guarantee someone will ask you where you can get it.  Also listen to his most recent album SMOKESHOW below.