For this week's upload we're going mixtapey with DJ Neoteric's "Indie-Cent Exposure" from 2003.
Mixtapes have gone through phases. They once referred to cassette compilations. They then evolved into compilation blends of sorts. From there, they transformed into either (A) a collection of more free-flowing tracks that a rapper would use to typically spit over other rappers' beats and/or (B) a collection of exclusive tracks or debut tracks that DJs would use to promote themselves and the rappers involved. From there, mixtapes turned into essentially free albums where it became difficult to distinguish, based solely on sound, between what was a "mixtape" and what was an "album." Now the term is a bit of a meme.
Anyhow, Neoteric's "Indie-Cent Exposure" falls into a mixture of the first couple of examples. On it, the Canadian DJ gives us some exclusive verses from Tachichi and Cee!!!! up front before transitioning into some light blends of indie rap tracks of the time from the likes of Busdriver, DOOM, Edan, Josh Martinez, El-P and others. We even get a bunch of short silent tracks at the end to build up to the "secret" Young Joseph tune haha.
Neoteric dropped a handful of these "Indie-Cent Exposure" mixtapes and while this one is fun, it's probably my least favorite of the bunch. Tune in throughout the month, though, for the other installments!
Indie-Cent Exposure