For every magical Jimi Hendrix-All Along the Watchtowercombination, hundreds of reinterpretationscrash and burn.
Arthur Russell isnt a household name, but this star-studded album could make listeners wonder why.
Russelllived his life in relative obscurity.
When vocalist Alexis Taylor sings I want to see all my friends at once, theNew York dance lineagecrystallizes.
Some artists, like folkie Phosphorescent, deviate more noticeably from Russells originals.
It shouldnt work, but then again, Russells version shouldnt have worked either.
Every artist onMaster Mixinjects these classics with their own styles, but the record never feels forced.
Instead, it exposes just how many genres Russell influenced in his brief life.
From indie weirdoDevendra Banhartto pop whizRobynto Arcade Fires ownRichard Reed Parry,Master Mixis bold and eclectic.
The statement isnt limited to Russells music.
Since 1989, theRed Hot Organizationhas used pop culture to raise awareness for HIV/AIDS.
So,Master Mixtranscends Did these musicians pull it off?
territory and achieves heavier cultural importance.
But if anyone was wondering, they do pull it off.
