About this album
Where they were
Released on September 16, 1996, 'Endtroducing.....' was DJ Shadow's debut album, emerging from his work as a producer and member of the influential group Solesides. At this point in his career, Shadow was seeking to establish himself as a pioneering force in instrumental hip-hop, showcasing his innovative sampling techniques and unique soundscapes.
Why it matters
The album is widely regarded as one of the first to be created entirely from samples, earning critical acclaim and influencing countless artists across genres. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and has been included in numerous 'greatest albums' lists, solidifying its status as a cornerstone in the development of trip hop and electronic music.
Essential tracks
- "Building Steam With a Grain of Salt" — This track exemplifies DJ Shadow's intricate layering of samples and haunting melodies, creating an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of the album.
- "Midnight in a Perfect World" — A standout track for its cinematic quality and emotional depth, it encapsulates the lush soundscapes that define Shadow's style.
- "Napalm Brain / Scatter Brain" — This piece showcases Shadow's ability to fuse diverse samples into cohesive narratives, balanced with dynamic shifts that keep listeners engaged.
Release Date
September 16, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Best Foot Forward 0:50
- 2 Building Steam With a Grain of Salt 6:40
- 3 The Number Song 4:39
- 4 Changeling / Transmission 1 7:51
- 5 What Does Your Soul Look Like, Part 4 5:09
- 6 [untitled] 0:25
- 7 Stem / Long Stem / Transmission 2 9:22
- 8 Mutual Slump 4:04
- 9 Organ Donor 1:57
- 10 Why Hip Hop Sucks in ’96 0:44
- 11 Midnight in a Perfect World 5:01
- 12 Napalm Brain / Scatter Brain 9:24
- 13 What Does Your Soul Look Like, Part 1: Blue Sky Revisit / Transmission 3 7:29
