Music
Master Mix: Red Hot + Arthur Russell
Robyn, Blood Orange and more celebrate underrated composer
Few knew the wildly eclectic cellist-composer Arthur Russell’s music when he died from AIDS in 1992 – but in the 21st century, he has experienced a renaissance that’s taken in his many sides. This two-disc covers set bravely attempts to capture them all. Robyn and Hot Chip re-create the ebullient joy of Russell’s disco productions, while Devendra Banhart and Phosphorescent find the quiet heart of his ballads. Best are the José González, Blood Orange and Revival Hour contributions, each wedding the contemplative, poppy and body-moving sides into a curious whole – just like Russell would have wanted.