The Beat Generation series was launched in March 2001 and was BBE's first real foray into original artist albums. It went on to feature the debut solo albums for some of the worlds most respected hip-hop and modern R&B producers such as J Dilla, Dj Jazzy Jeff, Larry Gold, Dj Spinna and Will.i.am. It also included albums from legends such as Pete Rock and Marley Marl. In addition there were albums from leftfield heavyweights King Britt and Madlib. Last but not least the set included a session of unreleased poetry from American literary giants - Allen Ginsberg, Peter Orlovsky and Greg Corso whose well documented movement lent its name to the series. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of this cult series BBE enlisted the services of two of its stalwart associates and compilers (DJ Spinna and DJ Mr Thing) to create a double mix CD featuring the best and most popular tracks from the nine albums recorded for the series...

The Beat Generation - 10th Anniversary Collection represents highlights of the nine Beat Generation albums to have been released since 2001. This 2-disc collection was compiled and mixed by DJ Spinna and Mr Thing.

On balance, I have to admit that I preferred Mr Thing's collection. While there's quite a bit of cross over on the tracks used, Mr Thing's mix is a little more slick. The most notable example is the transition between the tracks 'Pete's Jazz' and 'African Rhythms'. The beat makes it difficult to ease from one track into the other and this shows with DJ Spinna's mix, which is a little clunky - despite the fact he's added a customised jingle over the top. However Mr Thing's transition is almost flawless.

That slight niggle aside, what you're getting here for your money is a neat taster of 10 years of everything The Beat Generation stood for. From the classic hip-hop 'Nothin' Lesser (Featuring The UN)' to the Brazilian themed 'Rico Suave Bossa Nova' this is a compilation album that throws its net wide and constantly surprises.

Whether you're a fan of The Beat Generation, or have never sampled its music before, this is well worth checking out.

9

Nick Smithson