LTJ Bukem - Journey Inwards

Definitely, the most progressive and the most various work by Danny Bukem. As it was already mentioned here one can find a spirit of jazz and modern intelligent jungle/drum'n'bass. I'm a huge jazz fan, so I was glad do discover such slices as 'Journey Inwards', 'Sunrain' and 'Inner Guidance'...the track which was a complete surprise is 'Point Of View'...the word of gentle strings and analog vibrations. But, unfortunately, he's not a jazz-man, he's more of a beat-maestro, so the lack of possibilities is felt sometimes...I mean when trying to compare with the future-jazz bands, which produce more improvisation stuff. But...this CD is damn good. Esp. for relaxation and having a lot of free time, lying on a sofa in front of the speakers with the favorite book in the hands...

Thank you. Alexander. SPb, Russia.

And what a journey it is. Whereas many of his counterparts struggle to blend quantity with quality, Bukem provides both. Ambient soundscapes abound and are blended with acoustic percussion, flute, cello and cool synth timbres. It's a more jazz influenced style than on previous outings--a tone set by the languid flute opener, "Journey Inwards." This doesn't prevent Bukem from writing more uptempo material, however. "Watercolours" and "Viewpoint" are great examples of a more forward-looking approach. "Viewpoint" in particular is a futuristic drum-and-bass workout with a great rhythm. The jazz-funk strains of "Sunrain" open the second disc, which may surprise Bukem fans. With its instantly memorable vocal line it offers a pleasing twist of styles. Further proof, as if any were needed, that LTJ Bukem is still way ahead of the game.