Nightmares On Wax: In a Space Outta Sound

Herald rating: ****

First you can't help but think George Evelyn (the man behind Nightmares On Wax) has had too much of his beloved weed.

He's had plenty of time to indulge as it's been four years since the disappointing Mind Elevation.

But Passion, the lovely, lilting, opening track on In A Space Outta Sound, is just easing you into things.

The tempo picks up slightly on The Sweetest, and with the deep, shuddering thud and searing brass samples of Pudpots, Evelyn's clever hip-hop-meets-down-beat sound starts kicking in.

Like his DJ Kicks compilation from 2000 (easily one of the best in that series) In a Space Outta Sound is a stunning mix of relaxing, nutty, eerie and, occasionally, cutting moments, with solid beats throughout.

While not to the standard of 1999's excellent Carboot Soul, this new album proves that while Evelyn isn't flamboyant, he is one of the most deft electronic producers around.

It might sound like background music on first impressions but turn it up and it's likely to be the best nightmare you have.

Label: Warp