Record reviews - June 2005

Relation Superenlightened Urban Torque (URTR019) There been a lot of hype surrounding this release not to mention comparisons with Underworld and Joy Division. Relation is a pairing of Andy Leary who is the knob-twiddler and Oliver Keech the vocalist. Together they form this mid-nineties styled, low-fi cross-over which was a popular DJ cut at this year WMC and is sure be huge in the clubs this summer. Circulation beef things up and add a touch of prog in their traditional manor whilst keeping the chords and vocals. 'Oral Code' completes the pack and reinforces the Underworld parallels. Eli Bingham/NDL/Ty Tek This is Fresh Meat Vol II Gourmet Recordings (GOUR026) The second release in Gourmet Fresh Meat series is introduced by Eli Bingham. His 'Bonus Beats' in F minor is a percussive and energised instalment of tech with a cunning breakdown that builds just the right amount of tension. Over to side B for the dark, head-nodder courtesy of NDL. Slightly darker and exactly what you expect from Ty Tek is his dirty fusion of gritty electronic bass and synths are coupled with his hallmark hip-shaking drums. The pressure continually mounts throughout and just over halfway a rumbling bottom-end kicks in. This will shake your brain when heard on a big system. Funk Doid & Phil Kieran Lost in Belfast Soma (SOMA169) The title track is an intriguing slice of big room techno with drums that are highly comparable to and more than possibly sampled from Dave Clarke classic outhside Put together with this are chaotic synth patterns with a smattering of sparkly keyboard riffs. 'Worm' is decidedly more tech-house and a somewhat remarkable creation at that. Fatter than a weight-watching club, it's a fantastic layout of funkin', syncopated beats. An incredible array of audio, superbly laid out and possibly the best arrangement I've heard for some time. Check it without delay! Gene Farris Take Me Back Industry Recordings (INRE001) Chicago based Farris returns with a slamming chunk of moody house. Thumping drums, old school claps and occasional rolling snares ride together with intent to punish anyone not paying attention. Added to this is a dark vocal used well throughout. The dub mix is a creative re-work looping in some extras to make a tracky piece that a good alternative to the original. Chardronnet Vs Afrilounge Phonix Poker Flat (PFR57) Two of Stuttgart's finest come together to create two typically avant garde tracks plus a dub mix thrown in for good measure. 'Phonix' is sharp and minimal with funked rhythms riding merrily beneath staccato acid snips and simplistic three note melodies. Check the dub mix for a stripped-down take on things. 'Shake it' on side B is made up of household appliance samples, perhaps inspired by Doctor Rockit similar antics. The outcome is enchantingly unique and let face it, the likelihood of anyone using exactly the same instruments is highly unlikely. For those seeking an anomalous sound, this is sure to appeal. Mass G & Matt Thomas Who Bad Essential Beat Recordings (EBR002) London based Mass G and Matt Thomas serve up some no-nonsense, driving sounds in the shape of Who's Bad' Some may think that although topical, the use of a Michael Jackson sample is not a good choice however these guys are out to prove us wrong. It used well and not too often retaining the ever-popular Croydon sound along with a prog bassline and a hint of tribal percussion. Grant Dell mix lifts the theme noticeably through the use of springy beats. Although this side is a lighter reflection the bottom end is still fat enough to offend any sound dieters. Without a doubt both sides are designed to work the floor. Codebreakers Vs Bobkat Suntan Agave Records (AGAVE0508) This US label is on a top-quality release roll. Joining the impressive catalogue of artists are Codebreakers and Bobkat who form a solid party stomper. A funk-heavy bass and cheeky vocal FX are expertly laid out with occasionally interspersed rock-guitar licks. Man of the moment Joey Youngman lends his expert hand in remixing 'Suntan' on the flip. An aptly titled tune for Mr Youngman style he seems to inject natural UV rays into everything he touches. This is no exception, brimming with beams of summer sunshine it a healthy dose of feel-good medicine guaranteed to chase off the blues.

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