Review: Having reached their twenty fifth release last year with Myagi & The Root Sellers' "Rock One," Westway Records continue to push things forward with the release of "Electric Forces Funk" by breaks superstar, Cut La Roc.
Run by Barry Ashworth, Carl Loben and Billy Borez, Westway is committed to driving the scene forward with every release. Although the label touches on varying styles, their output focuses mainly on electro and breaks. More important in terms of fitting in with the label is attitude. Named in reference to 70s punk outfit, The Clash, Westway is founded on a raw, punkish attitude of exuberance.
As such, "Electric Forces Funk" feels right at home here, boldly announcing itself amid an array of noises and FXs. Built around a robotic vocal that repeatedly asks "can you feel Electric Forces Funk?" this futuristic, mechanical techno fiend takes on a future sci-fi feel from the outset. Squelchy FX, sirens and synths from outer space combine in this full throttled, high octane tech monster. Even the breakdowns sound like vicious and dangerous machines, intent on killing the remaining humans. Not laying low for long, the tune springs back into action ferociously, covered in a whirlwind of huge beats and glitchy techno sounds.
The Drum Monkeys' remix is up next. Much like the original but with an even filthier bassline, this is thick wad of tech-funk for the big rooms. 601?s remix ignites big breaks and electro interludes with the kind of string-like synths that used to litter 90s house. Finishing the release is the Sneaky remix. More atmospheric and dramatic then the rest, the Supercharged resident delivers a no frills, driving rework. Once again proving that both Cut La Rock and Westway are still pioneering a sound, "Electric Forces Funk" stands as a top release.
