Aqua Bassino: Beat's N Bobs

Who would have thought that the city of Edinburgh, Scotland could give rise to such tropical sounds as those that are found on the highly enjoyable Beat’s N Bobs ? But that only pays testament to Jason Robertson’s expansive imagination. Robertson is the man behind Aqua Bassino and he has done a masterful job of creating some of the loungiest and jazziest moments of house and downtempo moods this year. The album opener "Ola" features acoustic guitars strumming summery chords, as jazzy horns float a melodic backdrop over a mellow house groove. This sets the relaxed, harmonious tone for the album which meanders through both vibrant moods and understated emotions with the same nonchalant, blissful attitude. Take for example, the wistful, "Love Is Here To Stay," which introduces Nikki King’s husky vocals, the simmering smoky-jazz club type affair that is "Time...," or the more ethereal "Spirits With Jiwe," featuring African vocals. Robertson’s skill lies in crafting varied moods with different musical styles, but somehow having it all make sense, and pulling it off with grace and finesse at that. Without a weak track on the album, Beat’s n Bobs is far more accomplished than its off-hand title would have you believe, providing rewarding and stimulating listening.

Courtesy of BPM Magazine/ DJmixed.com