The Colossus

RJD2 originally began his career in Columbus, Ohio, DJing in 1993 with a pair of turntables bought from a friend. He claims his name originates from another friend who referenced him as "RJD2" in his raps, and the name stuck. Since then he has released half a dozen acclaimed albums and worked with many independent rappers, such as Copywrite; Cunninlynguists; Cage; MF DOOM; Diverse; and Aceyalone...

Marking the 10th year of his career and his first effort to be released via his own label, RJ's Electrical Connections, 'The Colossus' showcases the myriad of styles RJD2 has spanned as a maverick, respected producer. Collaborating with MCs; vocalists; and various instrumentalists, it displays an urgency & sophistication rarely seen. Weaving together rock solid beats; soulful vibes & horns; samples; and everything else available, 'The Colossus' is a kaleidoscopic look both forward & back.

"There's an even mix of instrumentals, rap jams and pop tunes - the execution shifts, too, from sample-based songs to ones with live instrumentation."
-ALTERNATIVE PRESS

"It's his finest album since 2002's instrumental hip-hop classic 'Deadringer', balancing punchy funk with soul ballads."
-SPIN

Personnel: Wendy Kaiser (mandolin); Karen Lang (violin); Jake O'Donnell (viola); Jane Sebring, Vanessa Mulgrave (cello); Heather Fortune (soprano flute, alto flute); Dan Scofield (clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone, bass saxophone); Adam Hershberger (trumpet).