Last month I brought you a profile on Austin-based hip-hop label Beats Broke. The latest release from Beats Broke is Progressions by Netherlands-based Arts The Beatdoctor.

Progressions is a mere five songs, but they are well-produced and executed. The most striking thing about Progressions is how much the overall sound differs from mainstream American hip-hop. Where American hip-hop is centered on bass and samples, Progressions feels more like a trance record with some breakbeats and a splash of traditional hip-hop hallmarks.

Arts the Beatdoctor is a gifted producer with exciting potential both on original songs and remixes. The standout track on Progressions is an Arts the Beatdoctor remix of Sleepby fellow Beats Broke artists Pax & Pry. The Sleep remix is intense at times, but still leaves room to breathe. It fits nicely into Progressions, which is overall very chill. It is the perfect record to sit back and smoke to. Lets hope Beats Broke is marketing the album in Amsterdam!

For more information on Arts the Beatdoctor, visit the Beats Broke website. Progressions is available as a digital download or a limited edition vinyl pressing. You can also Stream Arts the Beatdoctor on MySpace.

Post from: Austin Sound Check