EP Reviews by Mark Bayross and EDF
Review by Mark Bayross
This release showcases four tracks from Camden-dwelling Canadian and former Dream Warrior, Spek, ahead of his imminent debut album, DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF.
Spek’s nasal rap runs the gamut of the summery De La Soul vibes of the lead track to the shuffling SOHO, via the almost whispered trip-hop folk strum of HEY JONI and the nursery rhyme sarcasm of SHE THINKS SHE’S SO BEAUTIFUL.
Lacking the irritation factor of other so-called street poets, this mini-collection is a funky, laid-back and charmingly melodic antidote to the ravages of urban life.
Review by EDF
Hailing from Canada, Spek delivers a catchy mix of hip-hop and funk. The LOOK ME UP EP comprises of 4 tales, which sound as if they come from Spek’s own experiences. LOOK ME UP is funky with a hint of SHE’S NOT THERE by the Zombies. HEY JONI, a tribute to Joni Mitchell, has a hint of UK Garage lite-beats while still maintaining its acoustic sound. SHE THINKS SHE’S SO BEAUTIFUL is a laid back, amusing story about his lady friend. “Soho” could easily be a Fun Lovin’ Criminals track who, funnily enough, Spek has supported in the past, as well as Nelly Furtado and Spooks. Cool tracks for the summer.
