Amalgamation Of Soundz, The - Amalgamation Of Soundz

The Amalgamation of Soundz is brilliant. Not the album, not the band -- both. This genre-crossing release takes on drum 'n' bass, house and downtempo with panache and style to spare. "Hut (Remix)" is an aggressive d'n'b workout; "Cat in the Rain" is a slow, moody, horn-driven slab of downtempo. The Amagamation boys also incorporate ethnic flavors without seeming to pander. "Fiesta De Castellon" (obviously) has a Spanish flair, while "Tears for Yazd" invokes a Middle-Eastern flavor. This is future jazz done right -- completely essential.