2000 And One* – Heritage

2000 and One's Dylan Hermelijn has been a presence on the techno scene nearly from the start, and he finally drops his debut album, HERITAGE, on the label he's headed for nearly 20 years. It's mostly an understated affair, from the constant groove of "Burnin Dub" to the gentle twinkles of "Honey Bush." And, true to its name, "Spanish Fly" has a little Iberian flair to it, while "Dat Na Poku" edges into some more tribal rhythms. "Egusi" goes much deeper ("Mejiro" lets in a little acid flavor), and "State Of House" goes retro. A good, subtle album.

Great album, swinging on a mighty fresh oldschool vibe exactly between House and Techno. As much as I personally like the earlier releases that built 2000 And One's comeback during the last years ("Tropical Melons", "Pecan" or "Pak Pak") - compared to them, this album is on a whole new level regarding the arrangement's timing, drama and developement. The tracks still work on well crafted, repetitive grooves, sparse bass lines and walls of hall effects building up a blurry tension before things suddenly turn dry again and the groove moves on. There's even some snarerolls in "Spanish Fly", which is the best take on Lil' Louis "French Kiss" I heard in a long time. A honest tribute, no cheap copy. "Honey Bush" is another favourite of mine, minimal euphoria at it's best. However - all eight tracks really deserve their place on this album. Rock solid stuff and a future classic for sure.