Review: Ahadadream recently dropped the hymn-like urban anthem Pray For You, which showcased the light and ethereal vocals of Olivia Louise and some observational MC'ing from Scrufizzer. Now we get the remixes - Tarquin delivers some killer stop-start carnival action, Jamie George opts for a deep garage vibe laced with digital pops and fizz. Finally Murder He Wrote conjures up a supremely atmospheric rework with moody synth washes over a percussive shuffle.
Review: With this new single Ahadadream displays a talent beyond merely inventing witty band names. "Pray For You" is an hymn-like urban anthem where the light and ethereal vocals of Olivia Louise waft above simple piano chords and restrained percussion, before giving way to some observational MCing from Scrufizzer. Coming soon to radio playlists everywhere.
Review: More Time and R&S linking up is always going to lead to something fantastic, and this latest four track selection is just that, as we firstly kick off the project with some incredibly vibrant drum work and percussive brilliance from Ahadadream on 'Melty'. Next, Bala Bala Boyz rise to the occasion with more high energy drum chops and vocal lines on 'Sieta' before Bryte brings the grooves with the irresistible switch ups of 'Ice Cream'. Finally, 'Bleep Test' lands from SNOW, putting a final touch of rhythmic bliss onto what we can safely say is an excellent body of work.
FooR - "Don't Judge Me" (feat Dekar Da Don) - (4:52) 138 BPM
Pete Graham X Chris Lorenzo X Jamie George - "Let Me Down" (Nu Era remix) - (5:07) 128 BPM
Review: When it comes to compilations, it's important to keep them as jam packed with entertaining material as possible and it's safe to say that the Four40 camp have knocked this one out of the ballpark. As a project 'This Is UK Culture' is an incredible selection of bass, garage and grime creations, spanning the full breadth of the electronic dance music sphere. Comprising of 16 high profile inclusions, it's difficult to select highlights, but our stand outs would have to include Jamie George's soulful UKG remix of Ahadadream's 'Pray For You', the intense patois flavours of Tomb Crew's 'The Sermon' and of course the dance destroying arrangements of 'Lust' from UK Bass giants Hybrid Theory.
Review: Established during UKG/deep house's latest halcyon era in 2011, Four40 have navigated the bass, house and garage landscape with understated charm, forward-thinking fusions and occasions splashes of gully for five years, amassing well over 70 releases in the process. To celebrate they're put together this immense 54 track collection that represents the label's many sounds and successes. From Regality's deep Chicago inspired chugger "Celebrate" to Morcee's subtle speed garage swag "It's You", Hybrid Theory's atonal bass grunts and happy slap snares on "Mind Games" and Tom Shorterz subverted soul on "Wot U Do", Four40 cover all bass bases and provide an opportunity to fill any holes in your collection. Here's to another five years.
