(Passenger/Inertia)

The first CD release from fledgling label Passenger, Breakbeat Bass is labelled as “74 minutes of upfront breakbeat anthems”. Now they’ve definitely got the upfront part right but as far as breakbeat anthems go I’m not so sure. Overall the mixing talents of UK lads Aquasky are commendable and the offerings from artists such as the Breakfastaz, Ragga Twins, Freestylers, and Kool Keith definitely enliven things, but I couldn’t help but feel marginally unfulfilled by the album. I think that the tracks target a certain segment of breaks fans and perhaps I’m just not one of them.

Breakbeat Bass lives up to its title however with a bass dominant sound over technical, layered effects. The music on offer is ballsy enough but I felt that the fuzzy bass, sweeping synthesiser and patterns of build up/break down cheapened the sound at times. At times the tracks seemed to become too busy and cluttered. Rather than keeping the beat going and bringing in extra elements to create something rich and eclectic it seemed like each part was fighting for attention, generating a confusing and at times eyebrow-raising effect. But then again, with breaks being such an adaptable genre it’s hard to say what does or doesn’t make for a good tune these days.

With the majority of tracks coming from Aquasky vs. Masterblaster, standouts include the Chris Carter remix of ‘Cobra’ and the Freestylers remix of ‘Soundbwoy’, as well as the ‘Movin the Hype Track’ featuring Kool Keith from Aquasky and Crash Berlin. Also worth a mention is ‘Murder on the Loveboat’ courtesy of Transformerman.  I should point out that there are some unfortunately “Wild Volume (insert number here)” sounding tunes that make an appearance, but this may be a delight for some. Really I just felt like this CD could have offered so much more. I’m not sure whether Passenger is trying to pursue an alternative audience to that which Aquasky would usually be affiliated with, or whether I’m just missing the point somehow, but listen after listen Breakbeat Bass still struck me as being unmistakably substandard. The range of tracks are brought together as a group well enough, but there’s a certain aggravating element to the album; almost as if the notion of putting together songs that motivate and excite has gone somewhat astray and instead you’re left with a headache-y compilation that irritates more than it inspires. Yes there are a few songs of saving grace but they are at risk being overlooked if the less favourable tracks consume the listener too much.

At the end of the day it comes down to how far you’re willing to stretch your breaks. Breakbeat Bass explores a certain avenue of the genre and is a sort of forthright release, in the way that it’s not what you might expect. I would by no means suggest that you shun it without a listen. I gave it a few tries and resolved that it wasn’t for me but for some of you out there it’ll be right up your alley.