el-b & sp:mc: solstice
Francisco Espregueira
GD4YA just released a nugget of an EP called Solstice, result of a collaboration between El-B & SP:MC. Not much info is available on online about the release, but El-B shared that this journey with SP:MC began through GD4YA, where a mutual appreciation for each other's music blossomed into a defining moment at Outlook Festival in 2023. With the label head keen to unite them, and El-B desiring SP:MC's touch on this project, the stage was set for some serious studio alchemy. What started as a completely different track, originally not intended for live instrumentation, evolved organically when SP:MC suggested adding certain elements.
The transformation of Solstice took an unexpected turn when El-B’s father, Bud Beadle, a jazz session artist, contributed sax and flute, pushing the track from a "club destroyer" to something more chilled – inspiring the inclusion of a "Club Dub" version to satisfy initial expectations. The result is a testament to both artists' styles, infused across two tracks that offer a captivating duality of light and dark. Beyond the original mastery, the record also boasts an "absolute beast" of a remix by Vivek System. All of this comes complete with GD4YA’s unique and original designed inner labels, adding a premium touch that enhances the experience of navigating this exceptional record. Available on a limited vinyl edition, this one deserves your attention!