Music Reviews
Dubble D - Reachin' Out
2020 Vision RecordingsI was being given a lift around Leeds with the manager of 2020 vision at the end of 2004 and in his car stereo was a track from 'Reachin Out'. The track in question was 'Switch' which features vocals from legend Flora Purim. I could not quite believe my ears and I can see why that was chosen for the first single. Danny Ward has invited some excellent guests, which include Diane Charlemagne, Qball and Curt Cazal [QNC], Kate Rogers and Nightmares On Wax. 2020 vision are known for their quality house productions but here Danny really pushes the boundaries on just about every style known to man. There's the bluey 'Rain', the house anthem 'Switch' and hiphop monster 'Would You'. What else do I need to say?
PermalinkSimon Harrison, 06/05
Dusty - Keep It Raw
Jazz and Milk RecordingsJazz & Milk founder Dusty has created an amalgamation of various sounds with funk being the underlying foundation throughout this disc. Whether it’s the soul jazz arrangements of the title track, a funky organ grinder number that utilizes elements of Miles Davis “Kind of blue” or the pulsating rhythms of “Salsa Step”, the funk is the engine that drives this record. There’s plenty more that you’ll find enjoyable. The ultra talented Carla Val appears on two cuts here. The standout track, “Just an illusion” is a soul-jazz gem. “An exotic Breed” is a funky dub step treat. “Voodoo” explores afro beat rhythms with great results. Overall “Keep it Raw” is a deeply satisfying and entertaining set. Fans of soul jazz, afro beat and latin all wrapped into one session will find this record a worthy candidate for your collection.
Reg Dancy, 07/09
DWH (deeperwiderhigher) - Follow Me
Counterpoint RecordsAfter two ace singles the Deeper Wider Higher collective deliver their debut album and what a treat. With a whopping 17 tracks in total which includes a few remixes thrown in for good measure, this keeps up the quality we've come to expect from Counterpoint records. "Follow Me" mixes soul and jazz with beautiful vocals from Genifa Edwards, a name I've not heard of before but I'll certainly keep my eyes pealed for future projects. This is a must for fans of Fertile Ground and The Rebirth and given time will easily generate as much hype and respect. I hope these guys get on the road soon and show us what they are made of.
Simon Harrison, 10/06