MOG

I have a scepticism about famous, mainstream artists branching out of their comfort zones to take on endeavours that may be misguided. It's caused by those actors touting their music, or actors/musicians showing off their paintings or photographs (NBA ballers and their albums), that never really live up to the excellence of their recognized craft - it happens often. It's unfortunate, because it becomes a normative stance out of habit, leading to early dismissals of some positive developments.

The present instance: Class of 3000.

I did not expect what I got, which was a clever, endearing, even critical (of the industry, fame, the Baptist churches in Atlanta, etc.) animated series. The above excerpt is from the first episode, and it's a song called "Life Without Music." The amazing throwback animation is definitely John K, and that sort of guest collaboration (the rest of the show is animated differently) makes me happy. I'm not sure that I should have assumed Andre 3000 would have creative control over production of the original songs in the show, but considering how much leverage he must have for being him, and that Cartoon Network isn't the kind of stifling, corporate setting that would make him compromise, perhaps I should have known better.

If you have kids, or are one yourself (like me), a show like this that revolves around stripping the bullshit out of your life, and delving into music, its teaching, and its benefits is excellent. It gives you a light-hearted, smart (and sometimes trippy) romp through Dre 3000's head - a head that has said he would work with Squarepusher in a heartbeat. Respect.

[Class of 3000 Official Website]