1988 is the third single to be taken from the forthcoming Westbound EP by accomplished multi-instrumentalist and producer Alexander IV, otherwise known as Joris Feiertag. This latest sobriquet has allowed the Dutch beatmaker to move away from his more club focused offerings, to explore his hip hop, soul and jazz roots.
All of these influences are present and correct in 1988 with its boom-bap drums, ethereal vocal samples, loose guitars, strident percussion and haunting synths. Add some dubbed out horns plus atmospheric spoken word and you’ve traveled back some thirty five years to what might now be considered a simpler time.
The track fuses organic and electronic elements with ease, which isn’t surprising given the artist’s experience not only as a consummate dance music maker, but also as drummer of choice for Dutch superstars Kraak & Smaak. Add to that an extended family of gifted musicians, and you’ve got something brand new yet retro; uncomplicated yet masterful.
Listen or download Alexander IV – 1988 here: https://sonarkollektiv.lnk.to/WestboundEP