Spearhead レコード& CD

Review: BCee returns to Spearhead Records with These Are The Days, a fresh collection that showcases his continued knack for bringing vocal talent to the forefront. This time, he collaborates with thirteen different vocalists, drawing on some of the finest voices in the scene. Over the years, BCee has built a solid reputation not only as a producer but as a tastemaker, steering his Spearhead label to discover and nurture artists who have since skyrocketed - Hybrid Minds and Netsky being prime examples. The tracklist offers a wide range of moods, starting with the title track 'These Are The Days', featuring Zara Kershaw's uplifting vocals. BCee's knack for pairing the right voices with his productions shines through again on 'Imposter' with Degs and 'Lies' with Lauren Archer, blending emotion with groove. Elsewhere, 'Hurt Each Other' sees the soulful Liam Bailey stepping up, while Philippa Hanna and Neon Tigers bring a delicate balance to 'Straight To Your Heart'. Across two LPs, there's a sense of progression and cohesion - from the thoughtful 'Make Time' featuring Catching Cairo to the energised 'Gamble' with Javeon and Abi Flynn. BCee's beats are punchy, yet there's always space for the vocalists to shine. Tracks like 'Stepping Stones' with Tempza and 'Never Too High' featuring Solah maintain the energy, while still offering moments of reflection. This record feels like a celebration of the range of talent in modern drum & bass, with BCee curating the experience from start to finish, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Review: Seba is a name that has long been synonymous with the cutting edge of drum & bass. He has been active in the game for more than 25 years now and has never let his quality labels dip. He backs up that bold statement here with One, a new album that draws on everything he knows while also looking to new, unknown territory. There are hits of the great sounds he has dropped on the likes of LTJ Bukem's Good Looking Records, Goldie's Metalheadz and his own Secret Operations here with driving beats but also plenty of cinematic sound designs and widescreen synths. It makes for an involving and ethereal work right up up there with some of his best output.