scoundrel, Apr 11, 2005
The German have been musically colonizing much of the world lately: from Jazzanova’s incorporation of Brazilian vibes to Select Cuts’ conquering of Jamaican dub. But here’s a new one: Motorcitysoul’s album DID YOU EXPECT THAT? moves in on Chicago and Detroit house. “It’s On” is the most obvious example of this, with its soulful vocals, but “Written in the Stars” sounds like more traditional downtempo, especially with the smooth jazz guitar line. But the denizens of Chicago needn’t worry; Motorcitysoul only extracts certain parts, rather than invading wholesale. “Take a Look Around” blends an Inner City-like synth line into a dancefloor-ready groove; “Let You Go” adopts a two-step vibe; “With You ‘92” revels in its happy blippery. The final track, “(You Don’t Know) The Blues” gets down with some smooth tech-house grooves. More of an homage to the Motor City, really, than a takeover.
3.6/5 (