Beck - Guerolito

Traditionally, remixes were what listeners patiently sat through—if they sat through them at all—out of respect and possibly, a love of the song that was being reinterpreted. Remixes really seemed of more interest to DJs than to the mere mortal fan—no matter how rabid was the devotion. Guerolito, the track by track retelling of Beck’s Guero, is not necessarily a test of true fandom but more a study in ‘what exactly is the point?’ All thirteen tracks have been given new personalities by an interesting array of artists who each take their own spin, so to speak. In some cases, a little too much personality is imparted, like Adock’s annoying “Shake Shake Tambourine (Black Tambourine).” And, in other cases, not enough magnetism, like Th’ Corn Gangg’s tame, “Emergency Exit.” The finest remixes either enhance the mood of a song like Air’s moving rendition of “Heaven Hammer (Missing)" or actually improve upon the original like 8Bit’s dynamic, “Guettochip Malfunction (Hell Yes).” Many of the remixes are just simply forgettable. Innovator or impostor, think what you will of Beck; his music is always compelling no matter how arch it seems and really can't be touched for the mastery of its execution. What is a little alarming about Guerolito is that it could signal that Beck has given up and left his music in the hands of others to do what they will. Not to worry, mischievous Beck gets the last word in one of the best tracks, “Clap Hands,” to which Odelay and Guero producers the Dust Brothers contribute hand claps. “I’ll save my best for last and after that don’t even ask,” he assures, which should dispel any doubt that he has lost faith in his abilities. [www.beck.com]