27 Apr 2024
Dillastrate - Album Review: Dillastrate
31 Dec 2019 // A review by Ben Ruegg
Smooth is a perfect way to describe the feel of Dillastrate's new album. It has a Kiwi vibe to it while being drenched
in a collection of synth sounds that helps to bring an almost 80's feel to this Summer jam collection. That doesn’t mean it’s an 80's sounding album. Far from it - it’s more like it’s a subtle nod.
Smooth is a perfect way to describe the feel of Dillastrate's new album. It has a Kiwi vibe to it while being drenched
in a collection of synth sounds that helps to bring an almost 80's feel to this Summer jam collection. That doesn’t mean it’s an 80's sounding album. Far from it - it’s more like it’s a subtle nod.
The opening track Mama Told Ya starts the album on a slow vibe. In the middle of the track there is an incredible jazz inspired piano to boot, which provides just a sampler of what Dillastrate are able to do.
Tracks like Better Than This, Nightlights and Vibe With You really bring the pop and funk. Special mention goes to Nightlights - it had me reliving those early Dr Dre days with that lead synth sound popping up in the song. High five boys.
Slower tracks don’t dampen the mood either, with songs like Heroin, which is about the addictive nature of fatal attraction, making the album shine. The lyrical content is solid and meaningful, each cut telling a story with authenticity. The way the vocals sit in each song encourages you to hear everything, while not making them stronger than the music.
The album really is a trip through the influences of Dillastrate - every track has a different sound, yet the entire album sounds cohesive. The magic that comes from blending together pop, hip hop and soul allows for so many magical moments.
As a debut, this is a strong album, and one that shows a different side to what pop music can be. This is one album worthy of being played all summer long.
Rating:
( 5 / 5 )
About Dillastrate
Dillastrate describe their signature sound as neosoul pop – a product of intense refinement and humanizing machines, combining modern digital sounds with analogue soul to provide the best of both worlds. A heavy hat tip to funk legends Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson mingles with current soul, hip-hop, jazz and electronic sounds that seems to leave audiences open-mouthed and itching for more.
Members Henare 'H' Kaa (drums, lead vocals) and Tim Driver (keyboards, loops, vocals) realized the potential for Dillastrate while playing together in multiple groups, including kiwi staples AHoriBuzz and Soulsystem. With the ability to perform using all the necessary instruments with just the two of them, Dillastrate are agile and determined to play for appreciative audiences wherever and whenever possible. As working session musicians, the pair have worked with an intimidating host of national and international acts, including members of The Rolling Stones and a host of New Zealand’s top talent.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Dillastrate
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