L.A based Blakkat, AKA Mark Bell, has added his golden touch to both major labels and the cool underground, and also runs his own label Shaboom. As original member of M People, Mark Bell was signed as a solo artist to Atlantic Records, BMG, Sony and more. Mark has been a featured vocalist for King Britt’s Sylk 130 Project, Funk D’ Void and also released on Josh Wink’s Ovum label. His catalogue of music includes Felix Da Housecat, Josh Wink, DJ Sneak and Marshall Jefferson, while Chez Damier, Zero 7, Jamiroquai, Wyclef Jean, A Tribe Called Quest, and The Jungle Brothers have all received his remix treatment. Blakkat’s own productions have been remixed by David Morales, Basement Jaxx, KINK, Todd Terry, Steve Bug and Armand Van Helden. As his collaboration with David Morales, ‘Second Chance’, lands on DIRIDIM, DMCWorld goes Back To Mine with Blakkat.
Massive Attack V Mad Professor – Eternal Feedback (Sly)
The whole album is a masterpiece and should be experienced as such…
The Phenomenal Handclap Band – All of the Above – (Frisvold &Lindbaek Mix)
Taken from Frisvold and Lindbaek’s Diskoism mix album featuring their own remixes. I’ve heavily tested this collection of works in an afterhours environment. Definitely encourages you to take flight in the comfort of your own home.
Bobby Womack – You’re Welcome, Stop On By
Hard to pick a favourite version of “Stop on By”. I absolutely love Chaka’s recording, but today I went with Bobby Womack’s original. The vocal performance is truly magnificent, 100% soul heaven, from a giant of the genre.
S.O.S Band – No One’s Gonna Love You
I listened to this on repeat for most of my teens! Jam and Lewis defined 80s ethereal soul music within this album. A magical world in which to escape. Tabu Records was my mentor.
Loose Ends – Don’t You Ever
The best of British. This record was a transition from the end of the 80s, into the beginning of the 90’s and a massively important statement from the best to ever do it (from the uk). Carl’s vocals are absolutely gorgeous, UK street soul at it’s finest.
Sylk 130 – Romeo’s Fate (I:Cube Remix)
Had to put one of my own up in here! The original was a collab I did with King Britt for his Sylk 130 Re:members Only project, along with De La Soul, Jazzy Jeff, Questlove and Martin Fry of ABC. I:Cube created this wondrous wash of cosmic psychedelia that I got to swim about in! Thanks King for making this happen!
Deniece Williams – Free
I grew up in Blackpool in the 1980’s when soul music was still huge, and I don’t think I’ve heard a more beautiful sound to this day. Produced by the mighty Charles Stepney and Maurice White. A great example of translating sensuality into sound and then sound back into sensuality!
D’Angelo – Untitled (How Does It Feel)
What a guy! This record defines his absolute command of his art and genius. Everything about it blows my mind!
Minnie Riperton – Inside My Love
Don’t think for a minute there aren’t 3 ATCQ albums getting played at my afterhours. If had to choose 1 cut from them I’d have to refer to where Tip snagged “THAT” sample! Minnie was so special on so many levels. She even made it through to the rave with the Orb’s use of “Loving You”. Beautiful and eternal.
Sananda Maitreya – Sign Your Name
I love this cut so much! This man could and still can sing like a m#tha f#cka! Martin Ware and Howard Gray’s production skills are masterful.
David Morales & Blakkat ‘Second Chance’ (Remixes) is out now on DIRIDIM.
