PEPE レコード& CD

Review: Given his impressive track record - his releases have been championed by such luminaries as Peggy Gou, Shanti Celeste and Ben UFO - it would be fair to say that 'Reclaim', Pepe's first album since 2016, is hotly anticipated. It was apparently inspired by the idea of a 'human free future' where the Earth has been allowed to re-wild itself. With this concept as a reference, the album's blend of spring-fresh synthesiser melodies, summery textures, ambient-leaning soundscapes, sample-rich electronic experiments and dancefloor ready grooves (there are nods to ambient house, deep house, electro and UK bass) makes perfect sonic sense. More importantly, it's a hugely enjoyable album that stands out as one carefully considered, admirably executed piece of work. In other words, it could well turn out to be one of the electronic albums of 2023.