THE REMIX WARS CONTINUE: ROOTS VS. ROOTS

The Roots: Distortion to Static (Black Thought Mix)
From 12″ (Geffen, 1994)

The Roots: Silent Treatment (Beatminerz Remix)
From 12″ (Geffen, 1995)

Two more of my favorite rap remixes from the 1990s. The first is Black Thought’s jazzed out remix of the Roots’ first hit single, “Distortion to Static.” This initially came out on a promo-only 12″ of “Distortion” remixes that, to this day, remains one of my favorite pieces in my collection. The hyper-than-a heart-attack rap fan in me likes the “Freestyle” mix of the song better, so much so that I put it on my Incognitos mix-CD. Nowadays though, I like the vibed-out cool-like-that flavor of Black Thought’s mix. Very Sunday afternoon, you know?

This goes up against the Roots’ “Silent Treatment” remix which had not one, not two, but THREE remixes included (man, I miss them days). They’re actually all REALLY good and at some later point, I’ll try to post up the other two remixes. However, I’m feeling the Beatminerz remix. It uses the same Blackbyrds’ sample as GangStarr’s “Say Your Prayers” and unlike the other two remixes, this one features new lyrics including one of my favorites from the group:

      I take it all in moderation, about my loving situation
      While patience is a virtue but I wasn’t used to waiting
      I mentioned making moves without hesitation
      I want this physical and mental stimulation not the perpetration.
      The penetration of the center as I enter
      Intercourse keeping you warm through winter
      The source is the wood that won’t splinter
      Enter dimentions of brain tension when Black Thought back bends ya.