Souleance At Juno Download

Review: Both as individuals and collectively under the Souleance pseudonym, French producers Fulgeance and DJ Souli have a rising reputation as fearless makers of bespoke MPC beats. Here they give a glimpse of their talents with a long-promised debut album for Leeds-based First World Records. La Belle Vie is a largely impressive concoction, offering a glitchy and cut-up but nevertheless smooth and soulful take on hip-hop beat science. There are nods to Latin, soul, funk and jazz flavours, a smattering of vocal tracks among head-nodding instrumentals, and more than a healthy dose of cheeky Gallic humour.

Review: Comprising Fulgeance and DJ Soulis, French duo Souleance make a big impact with "La Gourmandise" ahead of their full LP, La Belle Vie. Creating a tough, funky rock vibe with Dr John-style percussion and piano, "Schack" makes for a great opener. "Tryin'" on the other hand is a standout, almost Portishead-like pared-down beauty featuring a haunting female vocal over softly plucked electric guitars and some simple drums. A great sampler of what should be a very impressive LP indeed.