“U Get Me”? Yes. Out today, Friday, Loraine James’ newest LP It’s Nothing Personal. is the kind of massive, glitchy percussive syncopation I would want to use to break in an excellent, brand new pair of trainers. Then comes deep bass, explosive rhythm, and heart-skipping vocals. (“Oi!”)
If there is a type of IDM Warp rhythm in the old mold you love, you get it here — all the best ones that make you want to shake your ass. Then there’s absolutely massive bass that makes you let out a relieved sigh. (I just ran through the record with some nice Adam subs.) Then the tempo modulates, and it’s like the sun breaks through the clouds, and there’s some warm, blissful chords. (Start with “Catch This” for that example.) Grime, yes. Intelligent, moving harmonic writing, yes. I did actually start singing along at one point, even on the first listen.
You should probably really buy the CD, and then find a nice CD player. Switch off the world and remind yourself that you do actually like music again.
Every syncopation has some reason to be there. Nothing is overcomplicated even as it’s off-kilter. It all tells a story.
It’s also clear and intense and there’s actual dynamic range. And look: it’s Joshua Eustis (Telefon Tel Aviv) on mastering. Somewhere around “Back 2 Skool Riddim” the sub can get you a visit from the police.
Without a hint of nostalgia, all of this is a reminder that there’s some good in the world to go fight for, and to listen — this is important — from the f***ing beginning to the very end, and then once more from the top. (If you need a routine reminder of that, you can follow Peretsky.)
Now for some nice pair of sneaks to celebrate.
If you are in London, Loraine is coming to the ICA — bringing some Torso Electronics along, too.
Previously, a full interview — written with a little more care than my immediate reactions here, but I was excited.