180 gr., Full Cover), Ltd 500. It’s safe to say this release marks Heist’s most international endeavor so far: next up we’ve got Alma Negra, 4 guys with roots in Portugal, Cabo Verde, Italy and Spain, hailing from Switzerland. They’re putting out an African influenced EP with German Detroit afficionado Soulphiction involved for a remix. Afro lovers will probably know Alma Negra because of their great work on Highlife, Sofrito or Basic Fingers and we’ve been in touch with them for a long time to make this release happen. Their 3 originals are a great showcase of their skills; blending traditional African music with contemporary house and techno. ‘Afrorleans’ is a track with Fela’s footprint all over it. They serve a lovely Rhodes jam over a classic Nigerian afrobeat, subtly supported by sparse electronic percussion giving room for the keys and afro drums to really shine. Meanwhile ‘Luanda dub’ is another beast altogether. As a modern reinterpretation of the traditional Lamento style from Luanda, this track is a gloomy techno workout with some killer bottom end, getting nice and trippy with dubbed out guitars, spacey vocals and tribal percussion. On the flip, we’ve got both versions of ‘Endless summer’, closing the EP on a light and mellow note. Alma’s original leans heavy on indeed “endless summer-y” Rhodes keys, filtered wahwah’s and African chants. Soulphiction does well in keeping the cheery vibe alive, but adds some serious grunts with his percussion and a killer bassline. With these fantastic guys as our second release of this year, and knowing what is still to come, I’m sure all of you will keep on listening to anything we send your way. Thanks for doing so. Your Sincerely, Maarten & Lars.
