Kosheen - Independence
Artist: Kosheen
Album: Independence
Label: Kosheen Recordings
OUT NOW
Rating: 4/5
Kosheen have always been a band who are not afraid to rip up the music rule book and experiment with their sound and try something new - and that is exactly what they have done with their new album Independence.
It has been a while since we last heard the band but in that time they have left their record label and have struck out on their own.
Independence is a fine return for the band as once again they mix the potent and emotive vocals of Sian Evans with the electronica and dance vibe brought by Darren Decoder and Markee Substance.
The album kicks off with Addict and a pulsating bassline blasts out - and you know that you are in for a treat.
The band’s production has got so slick over the years and it is on this track where that is really evident.
But when Evans’ vocals kick in the heavy backtrack almost melts away as you are totally mesmerised by her voice.
She has a real commanding presence and power than no matter how heavy the music is her voice is always centre stage.
Addict is a mix of Evans’ fantastic voice the heavy bassline and synths and it is just a fantastic combination that proves to be a great introduction to this record.
Get A New One is another track that is driven by a heavy beat and that just washes over the listener - seriously the backing music on this album has been superbly arranged and mixed for maximum impact.
Bella Donna is one of the catchiest tracks on the album as Kosheen turn down the volume and the bass a little bit - this song really shows off Evans’ fine voice.
It is one of the more subtle tracks on the records and it is a song that will stand out amongst the tracks around it that have an in your face beat.
Enter is another track that almost strips the technology away to leave a beautiful and haunting track that is driven forward by Evans.
Independence is great electro album that sees Kosheen back to their best as they have created a collection of tracks that with mesmerise and at times haunt.
The band may have been away for some time but they have kept their finger on the pulse and delivered an album that is completely contemporary.
And Independence is a cut above the other dance records that are out there at the moment as there is a darker edge to this album.
It may have been a while since we have heard any new material from this band but it was well worth the wait as they effortlessly mix genres such as dance, electronica, drum and bass and dub.
Kosheen - Independence is out now
Click here to buy Kosheen - Independence
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw