Review: Jimpster - Soul Spectral EP [Freerange Records]

I've been a big fan of Jimpster's deep creations, ever since hearing his fantastic 'Messages From The Hub' 'LP which was released in 99. Involved in the music scene since the 90's Jimpster's sleek jazz infused electronica has always oozed soul and depth and his new 'Soul Spectral EP' continues along this path.

Dropping on his own Freerange Records, founded with long time collaborator Tom Roberts who he also runs Delusions of Grandeur with, the EP marks a milestone achievement. Launched back in 1996, the label has been home to some of my personal favourites including Dam Swindle, DJ Aakmael, Crackazat and Black Loops, with this year marking their 25th anniversary. And what a way to celebrate. Indicative of it's contents the limited vinyl run of the EP has already sold out, but don't fear the digi version will be dropping this week.

Opening up proceedings 'Soul Spectral' is a master class in deep house with luscious, warm rhodes which are joined by Greg Paulus' trumpet melodies which float in and out, simultaneously euphoric and melancholy in a deeply contemplative way. Underpinning this is calming waves and organic bongo's - courtesy of Laroye - which give the track a natural, earthly edge. It's easy to image this was inspired by laid back, late nights at the beach, dancing under the moonlight or laying back on the sand.

'Sanguine' alters the energy with more energetic percussion but is soon joined by those characteristic chords. This takes it to more cosmic realms with reverberating effects which are tinged with an acidic edge, alongside little balearic embellishes. Flipping over, we are greeted with a New York house style bassline, which calls to 90s productions. 'Think of you Always' is a slow burner which adds different levels of texture as the track develops. An acid jazz line meanders atop the track, vintage vocal samples come and go and piano keys lazily float across the diverse soundscape.

Finishing up is the stripped back, dub mix of the opening track 'Soul Spectral' which seems to be mainly there to showcase the talents of Greg Paulus and Laroye. Overall, this is yet another wonderful creation from a truly inspirational talent which gets you to dig that little bit deeper into your emotive side.

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Jimpster's 'Soul Spectrum EP' drops on Freerange Records on the March 12th and is available to pre-order HERE.