Deo & Z-Man – Thugs Lake EP – (Jeudi Records)

Up next on the Jeudi Records imprint is the energetic four track ‘Thugs Lake’ EP from Deo & Z-Man. Opening the show is ‘We Can’t Go Back’, a smooth yet fierce at the same time house shuffler that incorporates a deep vocal sample that runs across the exhilarating journey. The introduction of rolling ride cymbals pick up the pace as you become lost inside the whirring organ and repetitive bass line.

The prominent bass line appears once more with track number two, ‘Chanel Affairs’. Keeping it simple at first, a tight drum loop locks with ease around the irresistibly groovy bass line before sharp piano stabs begin to make themselves heard. ‘1980’ changes up the tempo, throwing you in amongst a powerful organ riff that is sure to be one stuck in your head for days after. Shimmering synths come and go, taking control of the higher frequencies as the track begins to shine in new light and colour.

The finale comes from ‘Chanel Affairs’, a production which sees Deo & Z-Man head into somewhat darker surroundings, giving the power to punchier hi hats, and deep echoing synths, coming together for an ideal ending to an impressive and inspirational EP.

4 out of 5

Reviewed by Ian Fleming

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