DJ Snake – Encore [Interscope Records]
There is no way you got this far in 2016 without listening to some DJ Snake. The Frenchman unleashes what the world has been waiting for with his debut studio album, titled Encore.
The album covers an impressive variety of genres, and has a star-studded supporting cast. Fellow electronic producers Moksi, Skrillex and Yellow Claw contributed to three big tracks on the album. The featured vocalists on the album are top-notch as well, with Justin Bieber, Jeremih, Young Thug, Swizz Beatz, Travis Scott, Migos, G4shi, Mr. Hudson and JRY supplying their talents. Let’s go through Encore track-by-track.
Intro
This tune is a rather chilled-out, and piano based cut. It also has a bit of those vocal chops that has become a trademark of DJ Snake.
Middle (feat. Bipolar Sunshine)
This tune really permeated the summer charts. With a strong vocal, and entrancing drop, this is easily the most recognizable tune.
Sahara (feat. Skrillex)
DJ Snake and Skrillex deliver one of the heavier tracks on the album. The two combine their signature sounds very well for a track that’s equal parts trap and dubstep.
Sober (feat. JRY)
This track is my dark-horse favorite. It rocks a powerful vocal as well as a really energetic bassline. The drums are very well done, and fit perfectly with the guitar lead.
Pigalle (feat. Moksi)
Moksi imparts their trademark heavier interpretation of house on “Pigalle”. There is a very strong melody in the beginning, which then gives way to screaming high-pitched sounds on the drop.
Talk (feat. George Maple)
One of the other tracks released as a single, “Talk” is one of the more mellow selections. Co-produced by Flume, the drop perfectly combines chopped vocals and drums.
Ocho Cinco (feat. Yellow Claw)
Yellow Claw really brings out the hardstyle for “Ocho Cinco”. That typical massive bass kick is joined by exotic synths on the topline. Keep your ears open, as some trap works its way in as well.
The Half (feat. Jeremih, Young Thug and Swizz Beatz)
Jeremih, Young Thug and Swizz Beatz join this track to make a brand-new hip-hop smash. DJ Snake’s affinity for vocal chops dot the instrumental.
Oh Me Oh My (feat. Travis Scott, Migos and G4shi)
Travis Scott, Migos and G4shi turn up the intensity for “Oh Me Oh My”. The tempo is turned down, and the instrumental has the bass turned up. This one is authentic hip-hop from start to finish.
Propaganda
We’ve all heard “Propaganda” before, whether as the original or in remix form. Those chords are still so energetic, and the drop brings so much firepower.
4 Life (feat. G4shi)
G4shi shows off his abilities to both sing and rap on this tune. DJ Snake also shows off his abilities to craft fantastic beats that can still showcase a vocalist.
Future, Pt. 2 (feat. Bipolar Sunshine)
Bipolar Sunshine returns for “Future, Pt.2,” which is a bit speedier. This track definitely has some Daft Punk influences, and they are done quite well.
Let Me Love You (feat. Justin Bieber)
“Let Me Love You” actually leaked early, but the album version blows it out of the water. Justin Bieber continues to dominate on electronic instrumentals, and the “Lean On” inspired drop is the final piece of the puzzle.
Here Comes The Night (feat. Mr. Hudson)
“Here Comes The Night,” with Mr. Hudson, rounds out the album. I think DJ Snake experimented the most with this track, and got the best return on it. An energetic drop paired with Mr. Hudson‘s smooth vocals make this the perfect conclusion to Encore.
