In Song Riff Offs, we look at a popular recent song, and trace the riffs back to their origins. Today’s pick sees a small sample taken from the original that comprises the basis for the entire new track.

THE RIFF OFF

THE ORIGINAL

“Rill Rill” was one of the standout tracks from 2010 album Treats by American noisepop duo Sleigh Bells. The repetition and lack of any chord changes in the guitars immediately hinted at this track being built around a sample, which was revealed to be from the 1971 track “Can You Get To That” by legendary American funk band Funkadelic.

The sample taken was subtle, and it wouldn’t be obvious to most people of its origins. Furthermore, the way that Derek E. Miller and Alexis Krauss weaved their magic around the sample, using bells, drum beats and vocal harmonies, created an original song in its own right.