Mark Ronson can play a mean guitar, but his extensive knowledge of rap, funk, and soul was what got him noticed in the first place. Ronson’s past two records have been slick, sample-heavy dance records that hint at his formative years as a club DJ. The formula is no different on his newest album, Record Collection.
Record Collection, recorded under elongated the alias Mark Ronson & The Business Intl, glows with a kind of cool-guy charisma. You’re just as likely to hear it on alternative radio as you are to hear in on the next episode of Entourage. Ronson’s usual brand of polished dance tracks make up the bulk of the album and draw from his famously diverse influences. They literally borrow from his vast record collection. He samples classic funk drums reminiscent of early hip-hop cuts, uses ‘70s funk and dub horn sounds, and drops ‘80s New Wave and shoegaze vocal stylings on top, creating a sound that is both fun and aesthetically interesting.
Though Ronson is a solid musician in his own right (he composed the synth parts on the instrumental tracks “The Colour of Crumar” and “Circuit Breaker,” among others) the guest spots are what really makes Record Collection work. “Lose It” features a cameo from Ghostface Killah, who lays down a great verse over a beat so ominous that is sounds like it could have come from the soundtrack to A Clockwork Orange. Ronson also enlists the help of hip-hop heavyweights Q-Tip and D’Angelo, the latter of whom spits the hook on the reverb-drenched disco track “Glass Mountain Trust.” Ronson also gets some help from his own side of the pond, with guest appearances from Boy George and the London Gay Men’s Chorus.
Ronson has found success stateside as the producer for some of the UK’s biggest recent musical exports, including Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen. But even though Record Collection is a meticulously crafted album, it’s a little heavy on the Euro-dance track for some American ears. Ronson’s unique blend of hip-hop and classic Britpop sounds, along with a jaw-dropping list of featured artists makes it a smart and refreshing record. I just doubt it will break into mainstream radio play in the States—not while America is suffering from Bieber Fever.
Voice’s Choices: “Lose It,” “Glass Mountain Trust,” “Circuit Breaker”
