athletic progression: dark smoke
Francisco Espregueira
Athletic Progression are responsible for one of the surprises in this beginning of 2019, embracing the rhythms of hip hop, with colors and tones of jazz and soul music. Dark Smoke is the debut album from this danish Hip Hop & Jazz outfit, comprising nine tracks with the help of Minna Forouzandeh, Isatta Sheriff and Blacc El. Common to all the songs is the relaxed feel and playful approach to their music. The rhythms and evocative harmonies merge together.
Dark Smoke drinks the influences from the best neo soul names in the 90’s, like D’Angelo, Erykah Badu or the characteristic Dilla-esque beats, managIng to create a soulful and groovy universe. Recorded in late 2016, the band was then composed by four members. The group composition and its sound has changed since then, but always reflecting their common background in hip hop. Dark Smoke is where Athletic Progression’s story began, introducing us to that universe. Released by Super Bad Disco and HHV, Dark Smoke is available in vinyl.