Stereotypes marks the third LP but major-label debut for hip-hop/classical crossover duo
Black Violin, who also incorporate jazz, R&B, roots, rap, and pop into their unconstrained sound. Violinist
Marcus and violist
Wil B invited numerous collaborators to the recording, including but not limited to Grammy-winning singer
Melanie Fiona, rapper
Pharoahe Monch, keyboardist
Ray Angry (
Dianne Reeves,
Elvis Costello), drummer
Daru Jones (
Jack White,
Talib Kweli), string arranger/performer
Rob Moose (
yMusic,
Alabama Shakes,
Bon Iver), and producer
Eli Wolf (
Norah Jones,
Digable Planets). Much more likely to appeal to open-minded hip-hop devotees and those with eclectic tastes than to strict classical fans, the impressive collection offers 11 original tunes, including the atmospheric and wistful "Addiction" and virtuosic instrumental "Runnin'," as well as a funky, mostly instrumental cover of the
Bacharach-
David classic "Walk on By." ~ Marcy Donelson
