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This seven-song EP is a merger between electronic duo Phantogram and rapper Big Boi (Outkast). It's an unexpected pairing which is able to balance the funky flow of Big Boi with the flowing, dreamy vocals of Phantogram's Sarah Barthel and solid production work by Phantogram's other half, Josh Carter.
It's an interesting dichotomy in which the sum is nearly greater than the parts. Songs would be solid with just one of the vocalists, but the combination is what truly sets them apart. The participants know when to balance the vocals, as well — Big Boi takes the lead on opening track "Run for Your Life," while Barthel is the focus of "Lights On."
Two stand-out tracks on the album — outside of the titular collaboration itself — involve other guests. "Born to Shine" is a best-of-both-worlds showcase featuring Run the Jewels rapping alongside Big Boi while Barthel offers a slow and sultry chorus.
The closing track, "Drum Machine," features Skrillex — but don't expect any dubstep drops or EDM-focus here. The DJ wisely holds back, letting his beats serve the song without taking any of the spotlight away. If you didn't already know Skrillex was featured on the track before listening, you'd probably never notice.
The two parts fit together so well that you can only hope this seven-song EP is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to collaborations between these two artists. And, hopefully, there's some touring in the works, as well.
The pairing was fun enough for an online game, where the mission is to collect coins, to be created. Why not get your game on while listening to one of the year's best collaborations — it's better than hip-hop and cats, in my opinion.
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