Logic of Chance

2 years ago, Daniel Stephens and David Meads (better known as Dan Le Sac & Scroobius Pip) burst onto the UK Hip-Hop scene with a refreshing new look, sound and message, which has since seen them acquire an army of fans that appreciate the Musical talent they both possess. Mr. Pip is an exceptional lyricist that has brilliant politics backing him up, with Le Sac complimenting his work beautifully by producing some of the most unique beats I have ever heard. I personally didn’t think they could better a seemingly flawless debut album. Well you know what - I was wrong.

When I arrived at the Manchester Apollo on February 16th 2008 to see Mark Ronson & Co; I knew of a man called Scroobius Pip who had a solo album to his name called ‘No Commercial Breaks’, but had no idea that he, and his partner Dan, would be the support act for what was going to be the most eye-opening gig I have ever experienced. At first I was astounded by the distinct lack of appreciation that was shown from a 3000+ capacity crowd; but then again, you’re average human being wouldn’t understand why an artist is standing on stage, ‘talking’, with a bible in his hand. However, I myself thought it was one of the most unique and thought provoking performances I have ever seen, and since that day I have been encapsulated by the phenomenon that is Dan Le Sac vs. Scroobius Pip.

Having heard ‘Get Better’ three months ago, I had a feeling that this album was going to be something special. It’s safe to say, I was right. Currently positioned at No.1 on the Hip-Hop Album Chart on iTunes; Logic of Chance is the perfect Hip-Hop/Electronic crossover album - providing messages and touching on issues that no-one else would dare to take on. This is the main reason why I rate Pip so highly as a recording artist. Dan has also widened his production style on this album, with influences from both Ambient and Dubstep being quite apparent on some of the tracks. However; it’s wrong and very difficult to put these two into any kind of bracket/genre, as they have created their own genre of Music throughout the course of the two albums.

In many ways it is a very similar album to ‘Angles’ - it shouldn’t work, it’s not commercially friendly and you need to listen to it with an open mind. But if you are a true Music fan, then it should tick every box you on your check-list. I don’t think anyone can argue when I say that Dan Le Sac and Scroobius Pip are the most forward-thinking group in the world and continue to break down barriers that once looked unmoveable. I would like to pick out some tracks that stood out for me, but that would mean telling you about 1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,10,11+12. It is a quite magnificent album that deserves all the success it gets.

“She walks in and walks straight to the guy at the desk and says - I’m loving De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest”

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There Is Love In You

So after nearly a 5 year break since his last LP, Four Tet has returned with an album that has blown me away. I have followed this guy for years now and he has stayed true to himself ever since the release of Dialogue, and that is something I really admire.

After hearing the single ‘Love Cry’, followed by the Remix from the genius that is Joy Orbison; I have been so excited to hear the direction of this album. Remixing songs by artists such as Radiohead, Madvillain & Bloc Party, means you are never quite sure what you are going to get, but can be assured it will be of the highest standard.

He has always reminded me of the Barrow-In-Furness based producer, Aim; however this album is something completely different. In the past, the music has been Downtempo, Lounge & Ambient with a lot of breaks, where as there are a lot more Electronic and Techno influences evident in this project. A good move, if you ask me.

The album works beautiful from start to finish and leaves you with an overwhelming sense of happiness after your first listen. With February fast approaching, this month has been pretty impressive for the first month of the year. 29 days in and 299 songs down. I feel I have posted the three best albums so far and I am looking forward to hearing more of the same in the coming months. Support good music.

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He also did the Essential Mix on 23rd January, which you can download HERE (amazing)

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Feels Like The First Time

Evening.

I have finally decided to start up a (music) blog, after a little bit of persuasion, which was all I needed. After an incredibly strong start to the year, it’s quite ironic that one of my favourite songs is perfect for the title of my first post.

After a four year break, the troubles in her personal life and the astonishing performance on Jools Holland; It’s safe to say I was rather excited for the new project by one of the brightest Soul/R&B talents this country has produced in the 21st Century. I am happy to report that after many listens over the past week, I wasn’t left wanting in any way, shape or form.

I first saw Corinne Bailey Rae back in 2007, where she was the support act for John Legend at the Manchester Apollo, and I have become fascinated with her ever since. Her debut self-titled album was a worldwide success and one of the most pure and enjoyable debuts I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. She had quite a task on her hands to better it; however I think she’s done a pretty good job in doing so.

You can tell from the outset that she has grown as both a person and an artist. Her lyrics have stepped up a level, and the production is flawless throughout. I love how she has let herself go on the production side of things; on my favourite track (Feels Like The First Time) it sounds like something that Madlib has cooked up with ?uestlove. On other tracks such as ‘The Blackest Lily’ and ‘Are You Here’ she has created a sound, which is a cross between Raphael Saadiq, Norah Jones and Rahsaan Patterson (but better).

People say that this genre has been weak over the past 5 years - I disagree; they just don’t dig deep enough to find good music. One of my favourite albums of 2009 was from Laura Izibor, who is an Irish Soul singer that has also had the honour of touring with Mr. Legend (I know it’s Stephens really). If you enjoy Soul Music that is straight from the heart, then you need look no further than this.

I’ll get the hang of embedding YouTube videos as I go along, but for now, please enjoy this and purchase ‘The Sea’ on 1st of February. I genuinely believe this will be one of the albums of 2010, even at such an early stage. Beautiful.

Feels Like The First Time

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