Rolling Stone recently listed him as one of their “100 Most Influential Artists of all time” and it’s no wonder why - he has collaborated across genres with the likes of Bob Marley, Junior Murvin, The Clash, The Beastie Boys - now get ready for his 54th (!) studio album, Repentence, with co-producer Andrew WK, with whom he struck up an unthinkable friendship at South by Southwest when they met in 2006.

The album is a welcome return to the diverse and shape-shifting musical landscape that is Perry’s signature. From the sexually-charged club anthem “Pum Pum” to the infectious rhythm of “War Dance”, Lee’s mastery of all sounds makes it easy to see where young artists like M.I.A., Spank Rock and Hot Chip find inspiration.

Guest artists include Moby, seminal producer Don Fleming, bassist Josh Werner of Matisyahu, drummer Brian Chippendale of Lightning Bolt, and “adult entertainer” Sasha Grey.

Repentance is considered the best album he has produced in decades, standing alongside the innovative records of the 60’s & 70’s where Perry placed the DJ in the role of the artist. What Perry created can easily be seen as the prelude to the dance, hip hop and pop music genres which makes it easy to see where artists from 50 Cent, Hot Chip, M.I.A., to Spank Rock cut their teeth and found their sound. With Repentance, Perry has truly reclaimed the throne. He continues to influence the musical landscape of today by redefining every genre of music he touches with his unprecedented vision and production expertise. He remains revered by his peers and seen as one of the most influential artists by many of today’s contemporary performers.

“Pum Pum” [mp3]

Tour Dates:

09.08.08 Solana Beach, CA 92075 - Belly Up
09.06.08 Los Angeles, CA 90036 - El Rey Theater
09.04.08 Calgary, AB T2R 0B3 - Dickens AB
09.03.08 Edmonton, AB T6E 6H9 - Urban Lounge
09.02.08 Victoria, BC V8W 2C2 - Element Nite Club
09.01.08 Vancouver, BC - Richard’s On Richard
08.31.08 Seattle, WA 98109 - Bumbershoot Festival
08.30.08 Portland, OR 97214 - Hawthorne Theatre
08.29.08 San Francisco, CA 94117 - Independent

Last 5 posts by Jon Sevastra

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