shaolin cowboy feat. aj edward: a story of innocence lost
Francisco Espregueira
Alec Campbell, also known as Shaolin Cowboy, just released his latest work via Piff Records. A Story Of Innocence Lost is a mesmerizing five-track EP that presents a jazzy and r&b-ish vision of deep house textures and features the essential contribution of producer AJ Edward. Crafting intriguing rhythms and exploring ‘mysterious’ and soulful textures, Shaolin Cowboy adds a stellar project to Piff Records’ growing catalog and affirms his status as one of the most promising electronic producers hailing from the UK.
A Story Of Innocence Lost kicks off with “Down Like That”, in which the duo build plush synths around a pitched-down vocal sample. The real highlight here is the thumping percussion, driving the track forward at a steady pace with thick bass tones enveloping the speakers. “Make Me Cry” is up next, with a warm texture combining with brisk drum patterns and vocal samples. Gentle. “Yeh Yeh Yeh” is an emotional anthem that blends the physicality of jazz with house stylings. Minor-key chords make up the lead section, but the shuffling percussion underneath adds vitality. “Gumballs” is the record’s second link-up between Shaolin Cowboy and AJ Edward. Shimmering pad arrangements and minimal percussion make this one a textural delight, like a slow-burn light show that dazzles the senses. Last, but not least, “Goodbye George” is an incredible bonus track for all of us. Melodic synth motifs glisten like a pristine ring in the sun, with irresistible grooves coming from the rhythms and soulful vocal sample.
Available on vinyl at the end of October, A Story Of Innocence Lost is sort of a coming of age record that we’ll come back to often.