despite following the whole ninjatune vibe for a few years, i have to admit that i never fell under the spell of bonobo, it was a little to just there for me, a friend lent me his previous album and it just drifted over me.

this time around things are somewhat different. for a start, he has drafted in an free soul exotic singer who goes by the name of bajka on 4 of the 11 tracks, giving the album a consistent flow that is very welcome.

her vocal style suites the sumptous backing brilliantly, and for anyone who recalls the unique vocals of massive attacks nicolette, then there are similar aspects within her tones here.

of course the music is as you’d expect, lush production, real world instrumentation (lots of flute and clarinet solos), warm bass lines, and i guess a subtle nod to the world of jazz, but without too much of the chin stroking, though on your marks gets rather close for my own tastes.

as well as the tracks with bajka, which are my overall favourites, there is a wonderfully laid back and sublime piece of music, with strings, brushed drums and a deep deep dub bass line featuring labelmate fink on vocals, if you stayed over which is just fantastic and the best thing on the album by far, though the big fat fretlass bass line on album closer recurring definitely gives a plendid chill up the spine extra with its 70’s spy drama atmosphere.

for those that want mood filled beats, laid back vibes, a touch of jazz then this album is going to be one for your wishlist.