Review: Linkwood clearly enjoyed the process of recording his 2021 album Mono, which was created in a week in the Athens of the North Studio in Edinburgh, as he's repeated the exercise on Stereo. It's an impressive sequel all told, with the long-serving producer delivering an even deeper, warmer and more evocative excursion informed by his love of analogue deep house, classic sci-fi techno, the 80s compositions of Jan Hammer, intergalactic electro, drum machine-driven synth-funk and star-gazing ambient music. It sounds like it was primarily made with vintage synthesisers and drum machines, which when combined with his impeccable sound design and judicious use of outboard effects results in an enveloping, immersive and highly atmospheric sound that rewards repeat listens. In other words, it's another fine album to get lost in.
Review: Given their shared musical heritage - both are members of the extended Firecracker Recordings crew - it's perhaps something of a surprise to find that Face The Facts marks the first serious collaboration between Linkwood and Gav 'Fudge Fingaz' Sutherland AKA Other Lands. It's less surprising that the album is really, really good. Touching on warming synth-boogie, head-nodding downtempo jams, mutant beatdown, Balearic beats, sunset-ready soundscapes and warming analogue deep house, the 13-track set is notable for the pair's extensive use of dusty old drum machines, tactile instrumentation (think smooth Rhodes solos, languid guitar solos and blissed-out synths) and Sutherland's hazy, sometimes seductive singing voice.
Review: The two tracks on this release are a brilliant blend of disco-funk fusion. 'Thinking About Phlash' kicks off with a commanding guitar riff and a deep, driving disco bassline, layered with a touch of spacey atmosphere. It's an instrumental groove that feels timeless. On the Side-2, 'Phlash Boogie' turns up the funk with a playful yet sophisticated groove. Early space-funk sounds and dynamic keys create a vibrant interplay, showcasing a perfect blend of rhythmic complexity and cosmic vibes. Together, these tracks offer a polished yet soulful journey through the realms of disco and space funk, proving that high-quality grooves never go out of style.
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