— Issue 83 —

So the year has well and truly kicked off, and we have been inundated with lovely musical experiences already, including a field trip to go and see Dennis Bovell the legendary “Dubmaster” live at the Jazz Cafe. He’ll be releasing an anthology album on Trojan Records in March of this year, so go check that out if you’ve enjoyed the reggae we’ve slipped into your subscription here and there.

Now, on to the records:

Our album by the mighty electronic Dutch duo, Kraak and Smaak. If you’re not familiar with the name, you probably will have still heard some of their extensive discography in bars, clubs and on the odd TV show as well. Those of you who know them will likely have seen one of their many festival appearances including Glastonbury, Lovebox and the Big Chill. This is a lovely, relaxed release from them with a real Mediterranean feel. We think it will probably feature highly in some Ibiza soundtracks this summer, so you get to hear it first and dream of the sun to come!

For the 12” we’ve picked out something rather special. This is the debut from Gabriels, a trio made up of Jacob Lusk, Ryan Hope & Ari Balouzian; an acclaimed gospel singer and choir director, an established film director and a classically trained musician and soundtrack artist. “Love and Hate in a Different Time” is an emotive, beautiful and atmospheric take on gospel soul that really does sound timeless. Enjoy!