Recloose: Hiatus On The Horizon

(Herald rating: * * * *)

Recloose (Matthew Chicoine) has settled well into his new home in New Zealand after coming here a few years back from Detroit. Just listen to his second album, Hiatus On the Horizon, for proof.

His debut, Cardiology, was a great sample-driven jazzy techno fest, but came across a little flimsy. But right from the first sexy vocal strains and beautifully burping beats of the opening track, Landed, Hiatus On The Horizon is a soulful, lush and cohesive affair.

The list of guest artists - including Joe Dukie (Fat Freddy's Drop), Lisa Tomlins (Rhombus) and Hollie Smith - shows how well Recloose nestles into our local music scene while staying true to his roots. So although Time Is On Your Side (where Dukie's distinct vocal leads the deep bass and campfire guitar) oozes the subtle forces of Fat Freddy's, on the next track, Why I Otta, he's back into pulsing glitches, big brassy bits, and bells.

The warped jazz-funk of Makutu Man is a reminder that this noodly music need not be all sun-soaked pleasantries. Then again, Hiatus On the Horizon is an album that induces an early summer feeling and the outlook is for a long, hot one.

Label: Loop