I typically don’t pick up CDs based on how much I like the cover, but then again, most CD covers don’t feature mummies, lightning, bats, rocket skateboards, and a Jamaican commando with fucking laser arms. It takes a lot of work to get all those design elements to work together; I figured they must have put just as much work into the music. Turns out they did, and it sounds almost exactly like what the cover suggests.
I did my research (g o o g l e) and it turns out MAJOR LAZER(!!!)* is a fabo collabo** between Diplo and Switch, two grammy-snubbed DJs with some crazy connections to the Jamaican dancehall scene. Every track has a different special guest and a really different sound; it’s shocking how much variety is here. This album will take you through every room in the club and fuck you up in each one of them.
Now, I’d be lying if I said it was a great album. Diplo and Switch*** clearly have more enthusiasm than restraint, and at times they cram in so many layers and sound effects that the best bits are crowded out. I’d pick it up anyway. The most important element is there: you can dance to this until you melt into a puddle of sweat. Moreover, it’s really fun to shout “MAJOR LAZER” completely out of context. Try it sometime, say, next time you’re at the dry cleaners.
Here’s a link to their first video, which looks exactly like a G.I. Joe cartoon from the early 90s, down to the picture-perfect action figure commercial. Also, here’s their most recent video, which is directed by Eric Wareheim, my favorite music video director since Chris Cunningham. I’ll caution you that it’s probably NSFW, unless your boss is cool with daggering.
Major Lazer feat. Future Trouble – “Lazer Theme”
Major Lazer feat. Mr. Evil and Mapei – “Mary Jane”
* Emphasis mine.
** Nobody ever says this.
*** They sound like rascally cartoon characters when you refer to them like that.
