The first cut from upcoming debut Relax, Michael Jackson is a wonderfully snarky beast of a track. It’s a world away from the egotistical wordplay of Lil B, Gucci Mane and Tyler that has come to characterise the state of rap this year. The back-and-forth between frontmen Heems and Kool A.D is remarkable, the former’s hoarse tones offset by the latter’s smooth, bleary-eyed flow. The backbone to the track is a pummelling beat littered with vaguely oriental samples, an ingenious counter-point to the aggression that defines the track. And best of all, it boasts a chorus that is simply enormous in scale, a harsh blade ripping through the hordes of rappers who use a minimalist style to disguise their lack of talent. Das Racist have always been ahead of their contemporaries in terms of their credibility, but Michael Jackson sees them soar above those around them with flair, wit and righteous ire. Also, it wins points for at no point using the word swag, making it the first rap release this year to do so. Well done Das Racist, gold stars all round.
By Ned Powley
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