While iTunes may class DJ Shadow's The Outsider as a hip hop/rap album, it is not so easily defined. It is more like the eruption of a musically schizophrenic brain.
This album proves that DJ Shadow - real name Josh Davis - is far more than just a hip hop guru.
The mish-mash album pulls together elements from hip hop, rock, funk, dance music and blues.
While Shadow is responsible for all beats and scratching, a variety of guest vocalists make this a joy for all tastes.
Hip hop fans will be delighted to see an abundance of rappers on tracks, such as 3 Freaks, featuring Keak Da Sneak and Turf Talk, and Dats my Part, with E-40.
Soulful track This Time (I'm Gonna Try it My Way) features an unidentified vocalist from an old album Shadow unearthed at a bankruptcy sale. Despite the nostalgic feel, this track is enchantingly refreshing.
