More from the estimable Vick Lavender who seems to be on a bit of a roll of late. Four new tracks for his Sophisticado label, beginning with "Afro Go! (Jazz Playground extended mix)" which gifts us a highly treasured bassline from the very start, adding infectious chants, niggly clav licks and big timpani rolls to create a highly desirable slice of funky & tribal house music. "Ambrosia" follows suit - with more exceptional live bass playing paired with a lively percussion palette and warm keys soaked in a velvety reverb.
Onto side B and Vick drafts in house music's royal vocalist Robert Owens for his unique moods on "Tonight" which adds keys and synths that Mr. Fingers would be envious off - a highly Alleviated-styled offering which should take listeners back to the golden years of deep house.
Finally, "Acid Outpost" slows down with woozy organs, slowly galloping congas and a plethora of organic instrumentation - reminding me of a lost Rotating Assembly or Amp Fiddler jam.
Onto side B and Vick drafts in house music's royal vocalist Robert Owens for his unique moods on "Tonight" which adds keys and synths that Mr. Fingers would be envious off - a highly Alleviated-styled offering which should take listeners back to the golden years of deep house.
Finally, "Acid Outpost" slows down with woozy organs, slowly galloping congas and a plethora of organic instrumentation - reminding me of a lost Rotating Assembly or Amp Fiddler jam.
STAFF COMMENTS
Matt says: We've been really enjoying Vick's recent slew of releases but I think on this particular four track EP he really cements himself amongst the legendary US house producers alongside Ron Trent, Larry Heard, Joe Claussell etc; and I hope we continue to hear from this prolific and naturally skilled producer.TRACK LISTING
AFRO GO! (Jazz Playground Extended Mix)
Ambrosia (Vamp Funk Mix)
Tonight (with Robert Owens - Extended Vocal Mix)
AcidOutpost (Ext Mood 3 AM Mix)