There’s something pleasingly loose and baggy about this mini album from new Brit funkateers Phase 5 Stereo, aka producers/instrumentalists Simon Ham and Jo Brooks. Joined by a string of vocalists, hired players and a scratch DJ, they lay down a comfortingly hazy collection of ’60s and ’70s inspired grooves. It’s a musically expansive set, but one that retains a consistent sound thanks to Ham and Brooks’ consciously sunny production. Opening with a dash of Afrobeat (“Two and Afro”), 8 Track moves through Hammond-laden psychedelic grooves (“I Want You”), Latin-tinged hip-hop funk (“Raskins Skank”), baggy blue-eyed soul (“Out For The Count”) and dubwise reggae-soul (“Get Together”).

 

Record of the week- Nu Jazz (Juno Download)

 

It’s also featured on the Umbro Blog! With a great little interview!