NEEB: Take To The Sky

For over two decades, UK collective NEEB have evolved their musical style. On the way, they have traversed drum and bass, house and techno influences, eventually reaching a distinctive niche at the intersection of song-based soul, jazz and ambient electronic music. The group began as a trio with bassist Tony Waite and drummer Mark lLoyd, along with Mark Hand on Rhodes piano and synthesizers. In 2023, they expanded into a quartet with the addition of vocalist Jasmine Weatherill, marking a pivotal evolution in their sound. This new collaboration has been distilled into Take To The Sky, an album that represents their most focused statement yet.

Based in Hartlepool on England's northeast coast, the band invested two years developing and refining the album's material, a meticulous process evident in the sophisticated introductory passages on each track. Their sound centers on Weatherill's soulful vocals, layered electronic keyboards and driving rhythms, creating a warm, cinematic atmosphere that sits at the fringes of jazz, embracing retro electronica and jazz lounge sensibilities.

Two tracks feature the touch of ace percussionist Martin Ditcham, whose impressive resume spans collaborations with jazz-rock pioneers Nucleus, Talk Talk, Sade, Elton John and U2. His expertise elevates the opening title track, which begins with the sound of running water setting the scene before Rhodes piano and bass rhythms gradually emerge. Weatherill's elegant vocals float above the light synth textures, while rhythmic patterns conjure a soulful, summery atmosphere.

Ditcham's influence proves equally compelling on "Visions," where he locks into an excellent groove with Lloyd. Guest trumpeter Mark Hill (UK) weaves melodically through the rhythmic foundation, his lines intertwining with Hand's keyboard work in one of the album highlights.

Weatherill's vocals consistently hit the mark. Blessed with a versatile voice that moves easily through soul, folk and jazz intonations, she is at her most expressive singing her own lyrics on "Wasted." Her impassioned voice soars as the band is joined by Peter Casson's ebow guitar and Andy Wain's synthesizer. Joined by guest singer Max Mirza, Weatherill also excels on "Cave of Hands" amidst multiple keyboard effects.

While no single instrument dominates the mix, Hand's keyboards form the sonic foundation of the band's sound. His creative layering techniques and vintage-style synth motifs anchor the atmospheric backdrop, with only the overt vocoder on "Time is Elastic" being a retro step too far. Recorded at the band's own Mobeus Studio, the album benefits from Waite's dual role as both performer and producer. Beyond delivering compelling bass lines, his production and arrangement work ensures the sound remains polished and well-balanced throughout.

The album closes with "Brighter Day;" the song gently unfurls, delivering a smooth and uplifting finale. It is a satisfying ending to an immersive album that features striking vocals, creative rhythms, jazz influences and a chilled vibe. NEEB's fresh focus on songcraft, combined with their willingness to push boundaries, suggests exciting possibilities ahead, making their next creative move all the more anticipated.

Comments