Description
#jamesblake #vinyl #vinylrecords
In the realm of modern music, the name James Blake resonates with the soft melodies of soul, R&B, and indie pop. Yet, there’s an underlying depth to Blake’s artistry which can be traced back to his days of orchestrating audacious club mixes. His latest offering, Playing Robots Into Heaven, is a sonic journey back to those transformative days, but it carries with it the weight and maturity of his evolved singer-songwriter persona.
It’s almost like a twist in a narrative when an artist returns to their roots. The era where Blake was experimenting with breaks and synths for iconic labels like Hessle, Hemlock, and R&S saw him sculpting some of the most innovative club tracks. With Playing Robots Into Heaven, he seems to be blending his past and present, demonstrating that he hasn’t forgotten his origins.
Taking the listeners into the depths of bass-driven symphonies, ‘Loading’ is an ecstatic ensemble of pulsating two-step rhythms. With high-pitched vocal snippets and blazing synths, it paints a picture reminiscent of the golden era of pirate radio streams. Yet, Blake’s signature croon subtly permeates the track, serving as a gentle reminder of his contemporary songwriting prowess.
If ‘Loading’ is a nod to Blake’s club days, then ‘Big Hammer’ is a testament to his versatility. Dominated by the authoritative vibe of dancehall and the understated beats of minimal trap, this track comes alive with its Patois-inspired essence. It’s edgy, it’s raw, and it’s everything a club anthem promises to be.
Playing Robots Into Heaven reinforces James Blake’s unique position in the music industry. He is neither confined by his past nor solely defined by his current soulful renditions. Instead, he fluidly moves between the two worlds, showcasing the depth of his artistry.
For long-time fans, this album is a delightful surprise, and for newcomers, it’s a perfect introduction to the duality of Blake’s genius. In fusing his club wizardry with his modern-day songwriting, Blake has once again proven why he remains an unmatched force in the music world.
