Donnie Darko-Letting Go review by John M. Ellison IV

Well folks, DJ Bless and his trusty MPC are at it again with the Donnie Darko release “Letting Go.” With Bless’s production work that’s usually in most cases a shuffle pattern with heavy drums and a sample from a “core” subgenre. In this case, Bless samples something less sonically abrasive in this case, specifically Sacramento alternative rock band Middle Class Rut and their song “New Low.”

What grabbed my attention were the lyrics used in the intro of the song.

I’ve been right, I’ve been left
I’ve been wrong, I’ve been left behind
I’ve been up, but mostly down

Then listening to the hook…

I make mistakes just like everybody else
But instead of letting go of it, I can’t forgive myself

Well, the lyrics grabbed my attention. The usage of the “New Low” sample sets the tone for Darko to share lyrics that sounds more like the introspective poetic confession rap that’s reminiscent of “Suicidal Thoughts” by Notorious B.I.G.

In closing, even if you’re not into alternative rock/indie rock whatsoever, Bless’s production work makes Middle Class Rut more palatable to the hardcore rap crowd and Middle Class Rut has gained a potential fan.