Product Review
From the film that crystallized a subculture comes the soundtrack, finally reissued on Rhino, that first gave people a window into the exciting and innovative world of hip-hop. The names--like Grand Wizard Theodore & Kevie Kev Rockwell, Double Trouble, and The Cold Crush Brothers--may not have lasted, but their continuing influence on contemporary rap music is easily apparent. Digging through the minimalistic, hard-hitting tracks that fill this compilation, it is easy to discover where everyone from A Tribe Called Quest to LL Cool J and DJ Shadow found the original impetus to create their music. Wild Style is not so much about individual artists or songs as it is overall effect; highlighting the manic turntable scratching, the precise synthesizer beats and the spirited verbal gymnastics crucial to classic hip-hop. This soundtrack serves as a vital history lesson for anyone interested in the origins of the last major cultural revolution, or those who simply appreciate raw energy gelling into a new art form. A pair of bonus tracks and a long-lost Fab 5 Freddy cut make this nothing less than a crucial purchase. --Aidin Vaziri

This CD here embodies the true essence of Hip-Hop culture in every aspect. This is the soundtrack of of all B-Boys and true Hip-Hoppers world wide. Before MTV2, Yo! MTV Raps!, Rap-City, HOT97, The Source, Breakin' and Beat-Street there was "Wild-Style"! If you ever owned the record, you'll notice the extra trks. on this CD edition. This is the real deal people! The Fantastic Romantic 5, Cold Crush Bros., double trouble are all in here! this is a CLASSIC!!! All true Hip-Hop heads should own a copy! Comment | Permalink | (Report this)