Internal Affairs ‎– In My Soul

The record that (for me) changed it all. If you have heard Goldies Timeless LP, this record is the prototype. Absolutely stunning.

It's been written a number of times that Marc Mac and Dego (aka 4 Hero), along with Goldie (aka Metalheadz) wrote the blueprint for drum'n'bass. This record must surely be regarded as one of the critical tunes that paved the way for the development of the sound. Floating about as early as late summer of 93, this EP was, and still is incredibly ahead of its time - two years before Inner City Life, one year before Parallel Universe.

The lead track 'In My Soul' with its twisting vocal refrain, lush drops, and bending sounds. 'Find A Way' is more a nod to the classic hardcore sound that had precursed this release, with its stabby sounds, grinding breakbeat, and screeching vocal, but at the same time still retains an air of sophistication of the music to come.

On the flip, 'Hands To Heaven', is a mellower, laid-back affair, with its at times pitch-shifting break, lush synth washes, as well as all manner of other sounds and vocal samples. Finally, 'Shinin' Down On Me', is my stand-out track, starting off quite dark and menacing, with more pitch-shifting breaks crunching away. However, as it progresses, a lush synth sound and 'You take my breath away' female vocal and the most subtle of twisting mentasm sounds really give it a laid-back vibe. And not forgetting the most sublime of drops about a third into the track, where the title vocal is layered over the most uplifting chord riff.

Essential.

I am amazed to be the first person writing a review on this ultra rare seminal release from the most innovative label in the history of Hardcore / Drum and Bass. This is a four track EP produced by Manix, Tek 9 and Goldie in collaboration, and the results will not disappoint. All the usual classic reinforced synths and strings are present but where these tracks really stood out was in their tempo. Heard within any mix at the time (see Doc Scott at Wedding Anniversary 2, and Peshay virtually anywhere) these tunes hit you with a seemingly down tempo vibe, although this is more to do with the drum programming, and real time vocals. Although more twisted vocals do appear on 'In My Soul'!. The vocals on 'Hands to Heaven' and 'Find a Way' are stunning as is the production, and paved the way for a more laid back, mellow drum and bass sound. These tunes were years ahead of their time, and still stand alone as great tracks just to listen to to this day.

This is without doubt one of my favourite releases of all time, and I would recommend all Headz to buy on sight!