Express Yourself EP

Diplo

Express Yourself EP

Mad Decent

Sep 03, 2012 Web Exclusive By Lily Moayeri

All Diplo creations have a lewd undertone to them that, more often than not, comes to the surface disguised as grimy rhymes. On his latest EP, Express Yourself, in typical fashion, the in-demand DJ/producer hosts numerous dirty/likeminded collaborators. Snorting basslines and Middle Eastern-flavored honks lay the groundwork for the squalid lyricism on Express Yourself. No matter who the female vocalist, there seems to be a search for a M.I.A.-esque input. Case in point: a lowdown, sleazy-sounding Sabi asking for it raw and slow—the beat that is—and commanding you to watch her back it up on "Barely Standing." It's not just the ladies that are providing the filth here; the male vocalists hold their own. Exception: on "Move Around," Elephant Man's languorous island tones mask the rudeness with their spliffed-out vibes. On more than one occasion, classic Chemical Brothers loops are generously borrowed/referenced (i.e., "Butter's Theme," "Express Yourself"), thinly veiled under electro-whomps and bassbin flatulence. But hey, it's all in the name of getting the booty shaking, which Diplo accomplishes every time. (www.facebook.com/diplo)

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