Soul Motive At Juno Download

Review: Released by Bristol label Soul Motive, this hugely impressive mix of poly-rhythmic jazz instrumentation simply leaps out after one listen. "Al Fattah" opens the EP with an epic jazz scape that recalls everything from Charles Stepney, Herbie Hancock and DJ Shadow, while 'Emanations" gives the double bass plenty of space in the mix - leading to a low-down groove that's nicely countered by some floating pads. There's even a more synth-aided take on dubstep/bass on the spacey "Emergence".

Review: With material from Hyetal, Bashmore, Headhunter, Joker and more in their discography, Soul Motive have established a reputation for seeking out the various strands of music blossoming both close by their Bristol HQ and far (Cosmin TRG has also featured on the label) Arriving at their eleventh release Soul Motive further indulge the sounds of local talent Coleco, a producer who contributed to one of the label's early, split releases and is now granted the full grip of a twelve inch. Lead track "Hypnagogia" takes it's cue from the loose percussive style of Shackleton, gradually weaving in a thumping half step groove and intoxicating layers of Eastern strings - accomplished stuff! On the flip Victoria Klewin adds her floating, slightly saturated vocal tones to the galloping mysticism of "Find Me."

Review: Soul Motive have always been representative of the current strains of Bristol's ever flourishing tapestry of music scenes so it makes perfect sense that the label would call on the Young Echo collective sooner or later. After some notable releases for fellow Bristol hubs Idle Hands and Punch Drunk, Kahn steps forth with another example of his undoubted talent for making music that spans the shades of the bass music spectrum with the rowdy yet soulful 2 step bump of "Angeles." This is Kahn in smooth mode, demonstrating his prowess at weaving vocals so that they form an integral part of the rhythm. Fellow Punch Drunk acolyte Superisk ensures it's an all Bristol affair with a remix that dampens the soulful nature in favour of something altogether darker.