Tenderlonious + Dennis Ayler “8R1CK C17Y” (22a Music)

via 22a: 22a017 has arrived and it sees two of London’s most celebrated underground producers enter into album territory.

Comprised of ten cuts “8R1CK C17Y” takes the listener on a journey through Afro-House, Funk, Rare Groove, Boogie and Broken Beat to name a few. Tunes like ‘Brick City (4am)’ and ‘Butterfly’ groove effortlessly whilst synth leads interject over tasty chords, all the while being supported by solid bass lines – these two will undoubtedly set a strong pace on the dance floor.

‘Funky Booda’ does exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a straight Funk classic! Its infectious groove and soaring leads are sure to have you clapping your hands and stomping your feet. ‘Be Ur Friend’ is a fiery Afro-House number – reminiscent of one of Tenderlonious’s early releases ‘Bob’s Riddim’. With a slow build, the listener is teased until finally the drums drop and all hell breaks loose – another dance floor winner! There’s also more hip-hop inspired selections like ‘Brick City (4pm)’ or ‘Pepe’s Walk’, which bump hard and have strong traces of Sa-Ra and J Dilla influence.

The record comes complete with quirky skits like ‘Bootsy’ and ‘Ferndale Gateaux’, which blend in and out between the other tunes allowing the record to flow effortlessly from beginning to end. There is something for everyone on this album. It’s the kind of record you can play at home from start to finish or take out to the club as an essential dance floor filler. It pays homage to the 22a ethos, it has mass appeal and yet still maintains a high level of quality!

In short this album solidifies the duos ability to make great music with their own signature sound, unique to their world and lifestyle.

Words by Rodriguez Guido

“8R1CK C17Y” released August 11, 2017 on 22a Music

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