Freddie Cruger

The name Freddie Cruger might be new to most, but for the past several years, Cruger's alter ego, Red Astaire, has been tearing up hip-hop and soul dance floors. He's put out a steady stream of mash-up 12-inch-only releases that've kept the international DJ community on high alert. Now the secret's out, and the Stockholm-based producer/DJ is ready to shine. Cruger is at his best on the club-ready "I Feel Quote Whatever," featuring rapper Swingfly, and the instrumental "The Hustle." The unexpected surprises here come from fellow Swedes Linn and ADL, whose soulful croonings bless the tracks "Pushing On" and "Special Lady," respectively, and really fill out the album. Cruger moves from blues organ to reggae rhythms to Jay-Dee-style hip hop with ease, and his vocalists complement his productions well. From the hit potential of "Bap Yo Head" to the CD's soothing closer, "Take It Personally," Soul Search showcases the subtle talents of this producer to watch. — TophOne