Splendor & Squalor is a new label set up by Irish Hip-Hop and House enthusiasts Brame and Hamo. They've had recent releases on Berlin based Dirt Crew Recordings but this EP sees them christen their new label and christen it with style.
With everybody and his Nan seemingly starting up a label at the moment, you can’t rely on preemptive buzz alone. The first release has got to be good and it has to set the standard of what your label is about, and what direction it’s going to move in.
This is a tidy little 4-track offering featuring a song from the duo accompanied by a Session Victim remix on the A-side and an individual effort from each on the flip.
The Hip-Hop background of Brame and Hamo on ‘Clockwerk’ is immediately apparent. The drum work is bottom-heavy and sounds absolutely huge. The rising synths and vocal hits make for a polished track that really swings, definitely fit for the dance-floor. It’s a groove induced house track but at it’s heart, it’s Hip-Hop and that is probably why it works so well.
The remix from German duo Session Victim takes ‘Clockwerk’ a lot deeper. The Hip-Hop essence is drawn back, but not to it’s detriment. The bass line is beefed up and they turn it into an energetic track fit for much later in the night.
Hamo’s ‘SOUL’ is sample heavy Hip-House at its best. It’s a feel good track, aching to be played out in the heat of July at a BBQ just as the sun starts to set.
'Full Custody’ sees Brame close the EP off in style, taking the mood deeper than ‘SOUL’. With the devastating drums, subtly funk filled bass line and choice vocal samples; it is a track you can really get lost in.
As mentioned, there seems to be a current trend in dance music for artists everywhere to start up their own labels. Some do well, some fade into obscurity. Brame and Hamo here seem to be confident in their move and the EP really showcases what they have to offer.
Many will be drawn to the release by the Session Victim input but whilst it’s a great remix, it doesn’t overshadow the work, or should I say ‘werk’, of the Irishmen.
‘Clockwerk’ demonstrates undeniable chemistry and it is nice to see their own styles take center stage on ‘SOUL’ and ‘Full Custody’.
Simply put, this EP is pure House music born out of the groove of Hip-Hop. What’s not to like?
You can buy the vinyl here.
George Smith
