Up, Bustle and Out: Rebel Radio

Up Bustle and Out’s beat inspiration draws heavily from the hip-hop universe, with hard Bronx-style drum sounds that run through the first two cuts on Rebel Radio. “The Educators” and “Hip-Hop Barrio,” as well as others, like “Kennedy’s Secret Tapes,” quote heavily from the gospel according to Pete Rock and DJ Premier. Sit with the disc awhile, and you’ll discover that the Rebel Radio title is a concept that is followed to the letter. With contributions from Cuban flutist Richard Egues, this disc sounds like a hijacked signal from somewhere between Miami and Havana, from the propulsive Cuban flavors of “Mami” to the hip-shifting “Afro Cuban Cafe.”

Originally Published January 1, 2001