Frankie Beverly: Before I Let Go 12"

So the legend of the street is that this classic Maze featuring Frankie Beverly sing-along was made that way by Kid (gonna eat you out) Capri's extensive play. If you're a self-respecting hip hop dj like myself, this was one of the first non-hip hop records you bought. If you're late and not up on shit like the guys who run Turntable Lab, here's your chance to make good. I could beat it into your head how "classic" and must-have this record is, but by now you've listened to the sound clip and have already added it to your shopping cart. Still not sold? Ok, the b-side has the electro stomper "Time Warp" by Eddy Grant (Couch House Rhythm Section, the same guy that did "Electric Avenue") in both vocal and instrumental versions. If you know it, you know what's up. "Time Warp" is the shit, and no Woodman, it's not that Rocky Horror song you homo, it's a house/garage/disco classic. If you've been to the Shelter, you know the power of "Time Warp." When Timmy puts the acapella of "Smooth Criminal" over it you know in your heart how crappy all the mash up stuff of late is. You need this boot. I forgot to mention the extended intro on "Before I Let Go;" yea you could call it a re-edit cause that's what you want right? A re-edit, maybe by Mr. K?

• music label: Moo / 2002

reviewed by roc 05/2005