Istanbul imprint Oath’s sister label LYAM prepare to release Amsterdam-based artist Retromigration’s ‘Kush Calls‘ EP — sign up for break-inflected jazz- and house-influenced numbers that feel all the right kinds of strains — if you catch my drift.
With Retromigration’s past releases on Rhythm Section serving as pre-listening inspiration, those in the know will already be comfortable with understanding the kind of vibe he’s working with on the ‘Kush Calls‘ EP — take light, organic drum licks, add some groovy, flowing basslines with plenty of the soulful emphasis, a few bird chirps and a masterclass in summer-summoning synth work inundated with ‘oooh’ moments, and you’ve got your recipe.
The titular track, with Cem Mo & Moritz Schuster guesting on additional musical tinkerings, rolls in with some downright suave sax and a peak performance on those oh-so-eloquent synths mentioned above. There’s a real heart and soul to the track, with each instrument showcasing a nice flourish here and there, and enough going on in the ensemble to make it feel more like an all-star jam from the best of the funk and soul scene, rather than something that could have been produced in a sterile studio. Whack this on when the summer warmth finally breaks through those clouds for good.
‘Kush Calls’ is scheduled for release 6 May via LYAM. Order a copy from Bandcamp.
TRACKLIST
1. You Want That
2. Heat It Up
3. Arranciata
4. Kush Calls (ft. Cem Mo & Moritz Schuster)