Monkey for Sale

Chances are, you may be a Dan the Automator fan without even knowing it. DJ/producer Dan Nakamura's beats have been permeating the airwaves since this summer on several hit songs from the Gorillaz's self-titled debut, but he's also collaborated with the likes of Kool Keith, Del Tha Funky Homosapien, and, most recently, with Mike Patton.

But although Dan the Automator's name appears on the cover of the recently released Wanna Buy a Monkey?, this is by no means a solo album. It is instead one continuous track comprised of Dan's favorite songs. Some are remixes of his own creations; others are simply from under-appreciated artists who exemplify his tastes in music. In his own words, "This is a chance for people to get a look into my head."

The result is quite enthralling. Following a clear progression, the album begins with a couple of straight rap tunes from Brand Nubian and Black Rob, then meanders into mellower territory before finishing on a harder note. Somehow Dan the Automator has managed to visit every musical genre on this journey through his record collection. Somewhere in the middle between Air's "Le Soleil Est Pres de Moi" and Zero 7's "Destiny,"--as you try desperately to classify the eclectic mix of sounds you've heard--a striking realization will dawn on you: This is just good music.