Search - High Contrast :: True Colours

Cardiff-based DJ-producer Lincoln Barrett (a.k.a. High Contrast) builds new beats and pieces into the once majestic style known as drum and bass, combining color-saturated technique, warm studio technology, and clever samples for a spectacular two-disc debut. Many producers try to bring a more song-oriented approach to drum and bass, but Barrett pulls a few old-school tricks with a new-school view that beats them all silly. The warp-speed "Make It Tonight" sounds like Mary J. Blige time-stretched and tipsy. "True Colors" fuses bracing math rock with warm R&B sensibilities, while "Passion" combines corny atmospherics with breathy females and smooth-jazz sonics. "Return of Forever" is full-on sleaze funk, with a groove as deep and sweaty as a Brazilian street parade. With his magician's programming skills and dazzling tune sense, Barrett ups the ante for drum and bass wannabes the world over. Disc No. 2 includes alternate mixes and two additional tracks, "Remember When" and "Full Intention." --Ken Micallef