Adrian “Tricky” Thaws is one of electronica’s distinguished alumni without any doubt. His resume bullets include being one of The Wild Bunch as well as one of the original members of one of electronic music’s most amazing ensembles Massive Attack. It is obviously no secret that Thaws is one of the electronic genre’s elder statesmen. In 1995 he collaborated with the stylistic and talented Martina Topley-Bird to create Maxinquaye. This album’s dark exploration of human nature’s vices and virtues solidly establishes it as a defining representation of the urban tribal beat. Even now this album is a powerhouse that belies its own age and remains contemporary and relevant. Every track makes good as a beautifully vivid portrait of the era and this includes but is not limited to the album’s cover of Black Steel originally presented by Public Enemy. Hell Is Round The Corner is an exquisitely modern track that presents with a beautiful patina of antiquity reminiscent of old soul and is almost ironically chronicled in the title of the track Brand New You’re Retro. Aftermath is an audio collage that is soulful and unrepentant while possessing a low-key vibe that is irresistible. Each amazing track has the potential to serve as both entree and appetizer. This complexity and subtle power make the entirety of this album a real treat for fans of electronica, soul, and r&b alike. The versatility and listen-ability make it the perfect choice for both entertaining and settling in for the evening.
