MUSIC@TWO_SENSER: The Crystal Method - Born Too Slow

L.A.'s Crystal Method have been referred to as America's answer to the Chemical Brothers. A dance-based electronic duo with a definite rock band feel, the comparison would seem appropriate, although it tends to erase what makes the group distinct: a solid base in American hip-hop, rock, soul, and pop.

Formed in 1993 by Ken Jordan and Scott Kirkland, the pair's demand to be taken seriously as a band (as opposed to the enforced anonymity of most techno acts, and something of a new concept for American dance producers) extended to incessant live performances, and Crystal Method's increasing popularity both in the clubs and among radio jocks led to record deals, producing seven albums to date.

The Crystal Method's music has appeared in numerous TV shows, films, video games, and advertisements. Their best-selling album, Vegas, was certified platinum in 2007.

So what's all the fuss about? Check out one of my TCM favourites, Born Too Slow...

The song was famously featured on EA's Need for Speed: Underground in 2003, and features the vocals of Kyuss lead singer John Garcia and guitar by Limp Bizkit's Wes Borland. The music video was actually directed by Gore Verbinski, director of such films as The Mexican, The Ring, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series.

Verbinski liked the song so much, he asked The Crystal Method if he could direct the video for it. Wes Borland makes a cameo appearance as a man using a pay phone. Fitness expert Billy Blanks starred in the video as the silver man. Scott Kirkland and Ken Jordan also cameo as the two men in line after the silver man gets his drink.

Enjoy!