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Al Sunny – Summer End [Légère Recordings]
“Summer End”, the third album from Al Sunny is the synthesis of soul and pop wrapped in atmospheric textures. Based in Nimes, France, Sunny recorded this album at the home of Parisian pianist Florian Pellissier. Pellissier is featured on keyboards throughout the album. The opening track “Why” sets the tone for melodic lush grooves combined with Sunny’s engaging vocals and songwriting. “So Lonely” rides a steady drum kick, a thumping bass line and vibrant synths. Sunny’s honey toned vocals layered on top is the main ingredient to a burning tune. The compositions embody a cool West Coast vibe that reverberates throughout the album. Sound engineer Lois Eichelbrenner’s prowess of heightening the vocals and instrumentation is noticeable from the first note. Sunny continues to build on the promise of his previous album “Planets”. This is the breakout record we’ve been waiting for.
The Expert – Vivid Visions [Rucksack Records]
Dublin Ireland hip hop producer The Expert presents an ambitious collaborative album. “Vivid Visions” is a psychedelic hip hop album that was two years in the making. A short turnaround when you consider that the project features a whopping twenty one rappers from across the pond and beyond. The roster contains veterans and newcomers of the Indie hip-hop scene. “40 Winks” has a hazy sublime guitar melody tailor made for rapper/producer NAHreally. “Dreams” has a dreamy seventies soul sample that features LA rapper Blu and Stik Figa of Tanya Morgan.”Remember The Summer” has a laid back soul jazz sample. Chicago rapper/producer Defcee and UK rap legend Jehst take turns trading bars. Defcee is a major contributor throughout the album. The Expert set out to make a left of center hip-hop album that has an easy cohesive listen. This album’s production and clever use of samples evokes Pete Rock vibes. One of the best Indie hip-hop records of the year.