Mix Master Mike
Eye of the Cyklops
Asphodel Records
Release Date: March 2000
The problem with turntablism is that perfecting the art itself requires hours or research, followed by weeks of practice and trial, which is finally perfected through months and months of production tweaking. Just ask anyone who patiently tore out their hair waiting for the newest Kid Koala record or those whoe dream of the day that will see the release of the next DJ Shadow full length.
Thus, seeing Mixmaster Mike's return to the fray after such a short break is a welcome surprise. Although "Eye of the Cyklops" does provide another visit to the wacky sci-fi world of the now defunct Invizibl Skratch Piklz, the most important thing to remember here is that this is simply a minor EP meant to prepare all the hiphop heads for the next true MMM release.
Sure the cuts and scratches are still world champion quality, but it seems obvious why this material takes the form of an an EP instead of progressing into a full length record. "Eye of the Cyklops" is a bit less focused and never really grabs the listener for the full ride. The highlights are as fun and imaginative as the best cuts on "Anti-theft Device," but on the whole they are fewer and much shorter. Instead of packing more wonders into the 22 minute collection, Cyklops suffers from its time constraints; shorter and thus not as sweet.
A worthwhile purchse for the biggest turntablist fans, "Eye of the Cyklops," for the casual listener, is more of an execise than a fully realized performance.
-- Miguel Banuelos
banuelos@outersound.com
