COMPILATIONS / AMBIENT / BALEARIC/DOWNTEMPO
In the age of the playlist you might think a series like Late Night Tales would become less relevant, but in fact the opposite is true. The presentation and the variety of ‘curators’ chosen for their compilations is what keeps them ahead of the pack, and with such a well-established series it’s really good to see them pushing the boat out and giving the reins to up and coming Canadian group BadBadNotGood. There are certainly a few curiosities in their selection, and the lyrics for Esther Phillips’ ‘Home Is Where The Hatred Is’ ensures this won’t be the easiest of listening! There are some curious stylistic jumps, from the soothing Boards Of Canada track ‘Olson’ at the start to Kiki Gyan, who turns up the funk with ‘Disco Dancer’. Along the way we enjoy the corners of the group’s record collection, running through The Beach Boys, Thundercat, Stereolab and Charlotte Day Wilson. A compilation should always inspire you on to new musical journeys after you hear it, and the latest Late Night does just that, more often than not!
Ben Hogwood
4 out of 5
