A conceptual tribute to the lasting impact of pirate radio...
Despite a decline in radio's influence on music charts and news consumption, we must emphasize that the demise of this medium has been largely overstated. While major national and regional stations face challenges, the cultural significance of internet radio has surged over the past decade, exemplified by the immense popularity of London's NTS, Bristol's Noods Radio, and the US giant KEXP. In an era of pervasive algorithm-driven limitations, music enthusiasts are clearly searching for an alternative that is less aggressively personalized and focused on discovery.
This approach to extended, curated musical listening is what Nightmares On Wax (real name: George Evelyn) is exploring in his new mixtape, ‘Echo45 Sound System’. The reggae/electronica veteran has long championed the value of long-form music. His 1995 landmark album, ‘Smoker’s Delight’, is renowned for being an immersive listening experience; a work that is both subtly meditative and incredibly enjoyable to get lost in. ‘Echo45 Sound System’ possesses this captivating quality, while also introducing its own clever concept. The 14 tracks are set up like a pirate radio show, allowing listeners the choice to either hear each track individually or enjoy them in one uninterrupted mix.
The continuous mix option is truly delightful. The tracks naturally transition into one another, and it seems that this 42-minute mix is Evelyn’s favored format. Between tracks, enjoyable ad-libs from well-known voices like Gilles Peterson and Goldie are sprinkled in. Each track includes a guest musician, making the inclusion of these communal voices feel organic and adding another conceptual dimension to the album; essentially presenting a sound system with various artists taking the mic. Nightmares On Wax is among the UK's premier electronic-dub artists, and several tracks here boast an impressive bass weight. ‘Starwood Bound’ is an expansive, atmospheric gem, while ‘Holding On’ masterfully layers dub and d'n'b.
To further reward attentive listeners, ‘Echo45 Sound System’ actually improves as the transmission advances. A few of the early tracks may lack depth, but from the midpoint onward, the album truly elevates. ‘I Remember’ stands out as a highlight, showcasing introspective and relatable lyrics from Greentea Peng that are deeply engaging. The strings-driven ‘Wind Of Change’ is a smooth downtempo hit, and the closing track, ‘Hop-to-Mystic’, is both the most quintessential reggae piece and the most heartfelt. By the time vocalist Liam Bailey wraps up the track and album with a call to “stand together, stand strong,” you’ll find yourself wanting to remain immersed in the lush, captivating, and ever-smooth sounds of Nightmares On Wax and his numerous collaborators.
8/10
Words: Tom Morgan
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Although radio's impact on chart rankings and news consumption has diminished, it is important to emphasize that the medium has not completely lost its relevance.