Tracks

“Hold the Line”
Major Lazer feat. Mr. Lex and Santigold

It feels a bit like saying “a thinking man’s lobotomy,” but if there’s anything in pop right now that could be considered “a thinking man’s Black Eyed Peas,” it’s Major Lazer, the cartoon dance-hall party from superduper DJs Diplo and Switch. This is just pure, gonzo joy—by people with taste. Nasty Dick Dale–like surf guitar tommy-guns through crisp snare snaps and gut-punching 3/4 bass beat. Cheeky samples of neighing horses, cell phones, jungle cries and smooching lips keep things Looney Tunes. Jamaican idol Mr. Lex barks in his deep patois, while the ubiquitous Santigold coos, “I’ll make you vibrate like a Nokia.” Will.i.am’s gonna be so jealous.

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