What makes Strictly Turntablized by DJ Krush notable?

'Strictly Turntablized' is significant for its influence on the development of instrumental hip-hop and downtempo music, earning critical acclaim from publications like The Wire. It also helped solidify DJ Krush's reputation internationally, paving the way for future artists blending electronic elements with hip-hop production. By the time 'Strictly Turntablized' was released in 1994, DJ Krush had already established himself as a pioneering force in the Japanese hip-hop scene, following his debut album 'Krush' in 1994. This album marked his evolution into a more experimental sound, showcasing his skill as a turntablist and producer, while bridging genres like dub and ambient music.

Who is Strictly Turntablized for?

Strictly Turntablized works well if you're into atmospheric soundscapes for introspection, intricate layers for active listening and short tracks for quick engagement.

How many songs are on Strictly Turntablized?

Strictly Turntablized has 11 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Strictly Turntablized

DJ Krush · 1994

38 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop

Experimental beats blend with atmospheric samples, creating a hypnotic soundscape that transcends traditional hip-hop boundaries.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lunation — This track exemplifies Krush's ability to create an immersive atmosphere through layered samples and intricate beat structures, embodying the essence of the album's experimental nature.
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Silent Ungah (Too Much Pain) — The haunting melodies and deep grooves in this track illustrate Krush's mastery of mood-setting, making it a standout piece that resonates with emotional depth.
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Dig This Vibe — With its infectious rhythm and engaging flow, this track showcases Krush's unique blend of hip-hop and electronic influences, highlighting his innovative approach to production.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album's experimental approach and atmospheric layering create a unique listening experience within hip-hop.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brief intro that sets a moody atmosphere, followed by tracks that layer samples and beats without traditional song structures.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental passages, allowing the atmospheric elements to take precedence over rhythm.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

atmospheric soundscapes for introspection
intricate layers for active listening
short tracks for quick engagement
moody vibes for late nights

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party anthems
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified DJ Krush's reputation in instrumental hip-hop and downtempo music.
Career context: By the time 'Strictly Turntablized' was released in 1994, DJ Krush had already established himself as a pioneering force in the Japanese hip-hop scene, following his debut album 'Krush' in 1994. This album marked his evolution into a more experimental sound, showcasing his skill as a turntablist and producer, while bridging genres like dub and ambient music.
Stylistic neighbors: Nujabes· Bonobo· Amon Tobin