In less than a decade Osunlade’s become something of a phenomena to those that resolutely support the underground house scene. To be frank before 1999 I didn’t really know anything about the deep house, Afro, broken beat, soul spirited producer, DJ and musician native of New York. Setting up Yoruba Records over seven years ago, opened up many doors for him, namely acquiring himself a record and distribution deal with UK independent Soul Jazz records, which definitely helped to put him on the map following his ‘Paradigm’ debut offering for the said label. Offloading many LP, DJ mix compilations and singles for any credible label worth its salt both in England, Japan and Europe, it’s a wonder how the Nigerian ordained priest of his Ifa faith, who lived for a while in Puerto Rico and now presently resides in Greece manages to find the time come up with any fresh material as he has done on his latest ‘Elements Beyond’ magnificent project. Its shortly due for release on the new repackaged, rebranded Strictly Rhythm label – thanks to Simon Dunmore of Defected. For fans of his work expect no real surprises in terms of genres; from the minimalist approaches of dreamy techno on “139th Street”, the rather hauntingly demure ripplings of “A Monk’s Tale”, the middle eastern subtleties of “Frequencies” to the appealing disco funk homage of the seventies on “Momma’s Groove” which sit alongside each other with the greatest of ease. Other highlights include the rap timing monologue of Lotus A on the “Cream” love ballad, whereas the beats per minute drive full throttle but not manically on the Afro house musing called “April”. The one and only disappointing feature “Queen’s Battle” has a horde of foul language that totally ruins the track’s production of what could have been adopted by today’s funk devotees. As far a comebacks go Strictly have made a good move showing that they have moved with the times in the sounds of house. Kicking off with a class name as Osunlade should prove a solid investment on all sides, be you a DJ or a collector, you’ll dig this for sure.
