Count Bass D - Dwight Spitz (2002)

Count Bass D - Dwight Spitz (2002)

In 2004, Madlib and MF Doom released a collaborative effort under the name of Madvillian. The album, Madvilliany, was met with thunderous approval in the world of indie music. Backpackers all over hailed it as one of the best hip hop albums of the year (which I could agree with), and one of the best hip hop albums of the decade thus far (which I could agree with) if not one of the best hip hop albums of all-time (whoa there). Two years earlier, Count Bass D released this album; similar in style and equally as good, yet largely ignored.

I'm not sure why is this album not as revered in the indie hip hop world as Madvilliany. The similarities between the two are notable, especially in the rapid fire album flow with punk song lengths (and partially because both albums feature MF Doom). I'm not prepared to argue that Count Bass D is better here lyrically than Doom is on Madvilliany, because he isn't, but whereas Doom trumps him in skill they are both about equal when it comes to appeal. Bass D's slightly nasally yet ultra-relaxed baritone delivery exudes tons of personality. And with a host of guest rappers by his side (including Edan and the aforementioned MF Doom), the album feels fresh throughout. Production-wise, Dwight Spitz is at least on par with Madlib's effort in Madvilliany, meaning lots of off-kilter beats layered with obscure and not so obscure samples, but the use of live instruments (played by Bass D himself) give it a feel all its own.

Fans of Madvilliany will be doing themselves a favor by checking this out. It's similar enough to feel familiar but still has it's own unique personality.

Score: 8.5/10


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