kaidi tatham: the only way
Francisco Espregueira
The inimitable legend of Kaidi Tatham sees another chapter, the fifth via First Word Records. Following Don't Rush The Process (2022), An Insight To All Minds (2021), It's A World Before You (2018), and In Search Of Hope (re-pressed in 2020), The Only Way is, once again, a testament to his virtuosism and innovation in composition and production. It’s an entirely unique exploration into sound. 11 tracks touching on bruk, funk, jazz, mid-tempo hip hop and hyper-energetic Brazilian flavours, all thrown into a melting pot that's difficult to define, but all containing Kaidi's unmistakable sonic signature.
The journey begins gently with the opening track, setting a serene ambiance. As the album unfolds, Kaidi's signature synth-led bruk boogie takes center stage with its infectious rhythm and soulful melodies. The lead track, "The Only Way," features the talented Philly MC Uhmeer, marking their third collaboration with Kaidi. "Feels Like I'm On My Own" makes a bold statement, starting as a jazz-funk jam before seamlessly transitioning into a breakneck Brazilian choro, showcasing Kaidi's masterful musical prowess. The record continues to enthrall with tracks like "It's On," maintaining the dynamic and vibrant energy that Kaidi is known for. "Fricassee" invites listeners to the dancefloor, keeping them moving with its infectious beats. Throughout the journey, Kaidi collaborates with other talented artists, including Tiran Kayhatu on "Alien @$^%" and Matt Lord on the high-energy album closer, "Not Suffering."
Kaidi Tatham’ legendary discography, both as a solo artist or as part of highly praised colelctives, continues to grow. We’re talking about a body of work that falls within the cracks of jazz and dance music, exemplifying modern British black brilliance; uncompromising, innovative, groundbreaking, intricately sophisticated and deeply funky. Available on vinyl, The Only Way is one of the soundtracks of 2023.