(Liberator Music/Shock)

Krafty Kuts hit a new level of fame over the past few years with his first artist album, Tricka Technology (co-produced with A.Skillz), an awesome Radio 1 Essential Mix and a tour schedule an American president would be proud of. 2006 sees Krafty return with his hotly anticipated Freakshow album, preceded by the first single Bass Phenomenon. The single features an interesting pairing with house identity Tim Deluxe, so let’s see what we got ‘ere…

Bass Phenomenon’s sound aligns closely to Krafty’s promise to make a more breaks-oriented album (than Tricka Technology). It has a medium-paced beat which I best describe as quite broken and staggered. Many of you will have heard the track already, as it has received substantial internet radio play, and I could swear it Krafty played it on his most recent (of many) Aussie tours. The single is distinguished by a slightly annoying squeaky noise throughout and chant style lyrics by Tim. I don’t get it, I really don’t. There is also only one version on the single I received, surprising considering the DJ talent at their disposal.

It is obvious that Krafty has taken a different direction, moving away from the flat out funk-tastic sound which has been his trademark. This doesn’t come as a huge surprise, as A. Skillz isn’t present here and it’s understandable that Krafty wants to reinvent his sound (to some extent). I hope others get more out of it than me. Highly recommended if you like his squeaky-bleepy DJ set sound, and based on hearing samples of other tracks from his upcoming album, there will be plenty there for us funk-lovers to enjoy. In the meantime, track down the Bass Phenomenon film clip featuring Krafty in a blue 80s vinyl jacket!