When artists who have been making music for a long time are asked about their motivation, the typical and cliché answer is that they are just trying to challenge themselves by pushing their music to new directions. While the sentiment rarely reflects the finished product, it is safe to say that nothing could be truer when it comes to Cut Chemist and his latest musical adventure. Sound of the Police is a live mix that was a part of Mochilla’s “Timeless” concert series. However, the success of this performance made him realize that it needed to be heard and seen by people who were not able to attend the event.  Unlike traditional mix, instrumental albums, only one turntable, a mixer, a loop pedal, and all original vinyl pressings were used.

Over the course of the three tracks, one of which is the free downloadable single “Adidas to Addis,” Chemist demonstrates what diggin’ in the crates is all about. With the title of this album being influenced by Ethiopia’s military bands, Chemist’s soundscape is influenced by Africa and South America.  Sound of the Police’s strength rests in its creativity and structure.  There is a beautiful intensity present on this project.  As the horns and drums shift in intensity and texture, it is as if Chemist is taking us deeper and deeper into the geographical regions which this music is taken from. Because most of the album is divided over the course of two tracks, Chemist is able to really develop a mood and sustain it before transitioning to the next one. If this is any indication as to what fans might expect from the next full length project, it is safe to say that it will be a project that music enthusiasts will be anxious to get their hands on. For now, Sound of the Police is a testament to what sample-based music should sound like and a refutation to the limitations that DJs or the industry might put on any artist or their own craft.

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