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Known primarily for it’s standing within deep house circles, Om Records have progressively ventured into other genres such as downtempo, acid jazz, hip hop. This debut album from San Franciscan Bassnectar sees the revered label stretch it’s vast tentacles deep into the realms of breakbeat.
Underground Communication opens with tinkling chimes before dissolving into a confident merger of hip hop and electronica. It is this hybrid which forms the basis of this artist’s sound. Alternating between rap tempos and more dancefloor oriented material this album retains an ebb and flow which holds the listener’s attention throughout. The inclusion of various MC’s at points adds interest, with the feminine touch of Persia and the Latino funk of Kristina Maria proving especially flavoursome. However, it is on the instrumental cuts that the talents of this artist shine brightest.
Bassnectar favours a sound built on the glitchy edits, rotund bass and vocal contortions which in parts recalls the work of Tipper, Mr. Oizo and Prefuse 73. Each composition is deeply layered and evolving with pristine melodies counterbalanced by clicks, whirrs and beeps. That, and thick, syrupy bass. Moving between soundsystem workouts and introspective moments with aplomb, this Californian producer has all bases covered with this well rounded release.
Bassnectar executes his art with a technique that is above many of his peers, but ultimately Underground Communication sounds just a shade dated. A touch more dirt and a willingness to veer into uncharted territory might’ve yeilded frightfully good results. As it stands, this is an impressive release which will win fans of many persuasions.
