Album Review: Clams Casino - Instrumental Mixtape 2

Mike Volpe graciously uploaded his second (and free) instrumental mixtape for earlier this month via major social networking sites. It delivers the same impossibly emotional production as its acclaimed predecessors. The mixtape consists of a number of forward-thinking tracks that could only have been produced by the man that continues to push the boundaries of electronic music as well as hip hop: Clams Casino. 

'Instrumental' is the key word here: for the most part these tracks are simply instrumental versions of hip hop collaborations (A$AP Rocky, Lil B), but this is where his production allows itself to shine. Not tarnished by B-grade rappers, the sheer emotion of Volpe's work is left untouched where all its subtleties and intricacies can truly be appreciated. Instrumental Mixtape 2 features stretching entrancing synths, sublimely pitched vocals and colossal-sounding, torrential percussion that conjures inspiring imagery and provokes raw emotion for its listeners.

Angels features big breathy vocals and a whispery echo, complemented by pitter-pattery hi-hats and shattering crash cymbals. Closing track I'm God provides uplifting and harmonious vocals that dance beside its listener, as well as booming, deliberate-sounding drums. The track samples Imogen Heap and its vocal version features a collaboration with Lil B, and manages to capture his sheer eclecticism as well as his unique transformative ability.

Clams Casino gives his listeners an album that bursts at its seams with innovation and personality, and shows why he's quickly becoming one of the most sought after producers in the business.