the bug

Pressure (2008 Reissue)

2008 REISSUE! Rephlex, ever abreast of what every kid wants and needs, and almost in sequel to their much needed DJ Scud collection, come with the full length Bug selection! Where Scud tweaks those machines for broke, The Bug have made this an album of congress with bashment rydims, ragga vocals and dub poetics. Instrumentally its as honed, trim, technological and futuristic as anything you'd find adorning the rhythm side of many a 45 fresh from yard. Yet there's a more canny side to this release which only becomes apparent when you start to delve past soundbwoy killas from Daddy Freddy, the x-rated Wayne Lonesome, He-Man and New Flesh hero Toastie Taylor. And it hinges on the crucial contributions of two voices familiar from other situations, and here's the key. Roger Robinson's spoken word voice rings as true as Linton Kwesi Johnson did on 'Street 66', his centred and grave vocal on four cuts providing a meditative, but inspiring point around which the digital rhythms can revolve. Long term casualties of this list will recall the inspiring 'Rastabomba' cut by Timeblind, which graced his fine Orthlong album, and also received the twelve inch remix treatment at the hands of the men like dj Rupture, the Kid 606, Kit Clayton. Keep this in mind when you think of Roger Robinson's earthy tones. More importantly, some sweet vocal inspiration and assistance comes in the shape of Paul St. Hilaire, the artist formerly known as Tikiman, integral Burial Mix, Main Street and Rhythm & Sound protagonist. Long live Paul St. Hilaire we say, on this form he's left his slight False Tuned efforts behind and found new chords and dimensions to his voice. For bashment fans this is unmatchable, but for the true lovers of 'Living Dub; there's surprising riches here. Excellent.