Run the Jewels
Meow the Jewels
(self-released)
Four stars
“Unlikely” is probably the best word to describe this album of cat-themed hip-hop.
Run the Jewels – El-P and Killer Mike – were solo hip-hop players for two decades, but after two self-released albums, they were selling out shows worldwide and revitalising rap.
This third effort follows a joke Kickstarter campaign – the pair said they'd remake their album Run the Jewels 2, replacing its music with cat sounds if donations reached US$40,000 (Dh146,918). They clearly underestimated the power of cats and the internet: $65,000 later, Meow the Jewels became an actual thing, with all profit going to charity.
As well as added feline touches, the original tracks are all remixed by a stellar cast, including the dark American songstress Zola Jesus and members of Massive Attack and Portishead.
The feline power is mostly cleverly aurally manipulated, so there's still plenty of punch to highlights such as Lie, Cheat, Meow and Meowrly. Most amusing title for those aware of the originals goes to Close Your Eyes and Meow to Fluff. Google it.
aworkman@thenational.aes