As with all releases that J:Kenzo gets involved with, you know it’s going to be highly anticipated and well received. This is no different with Kenzo‘s latest release and second 12″ on his Artikal Music label (ARTKL028). The plate comes equipped with two tracks that are both sound system and head phone worthy. ‘Sharkeye’ has been rinsed for the best part of 12 months now and still sounds just as fresh on release day; a perfect sound system banger where the crisp percussion takes centre stage with a minimal edge. As good as ‘Sharkeye’ is, I seem to favour the B-side ‘Asutoraru’ a little more. From first listen (probably on Youngsta‘s Rinse FM show), I was grabbed by it’s cold wintery sound palette, a catchy lead over the meditative atmospheric low end. After all these years and releases gone by ‘Asutoraru’ in particular is Kenzo at his best; new elements are added that sound fresh and innovative, yet still remains instantly recognisable and quintessentially J:Kenzo.
ARTKL028 is out Friday (26th January), available from the Artikal Music Bandcamp.
A big shout to Marrissa Malik on the great artwork once again.
Check out J:Kenzo on Soundcloud and Twitter.
Check out Artikal Music on Soundcloud and Twitter.