Marcus Marr – Well Alright review

Exciting times in Brixton as new label New Finger drops its very first release. To launch the imprint, the south Londoners chose Marcus Marr, who although is delivering a debut release of his own, is no new comer to the scene. As a songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, Marr has had a long musical background featuring as one half of the Fanglers  (Cynic Records) whilst also having featured on Felix Dickinson and Toby Tobias’ alias The Mythical Beasts’ track, “The Magical Creature.”

He has also spent time as a session player, working with the likes of Felix Dickinson, Horse Meat Disco, the Idjut Boys and Black Cock. Both himself and New Finger are set for big things in 2010 as “Well Alright” gets them off to a flyer with a killer debut and double A Side of bassy, floaty synth-pop meets nu disco.

Up first is the title track, a feel good summer tune that merges funk, disco, rock and house into one delightful cut. It is funkoid nu disco at its very best mixed with a gut-pounding, disco rock feel. A thumping kick drives forward beneath a swirling mesh of funky guitar licks, tight slap bass, soulful keys and vintage vocals. One to get dancefloors moving, this will shake asses from Brixton to New York.

“Pleasure Moon” is dubbier and deeper, sinking into an irresistible cosmic groove that builds and builds with an almost laidback attitude. The acid bassline is simply gorgeous, and when mixed with the dreamy, ethereal Donna Summer-esque vocals from space-siren Helena Ward, creates the kind of atmosphere that was previously thought to have only existed in a 1970s new year party in outer space.

A fantastic debut for both artist and label, the combination delivers on all counts. Keep an eye out for both throughout 2010!

Reviewer: Tom Jones