A Guy Called Gerald - Essence

A GUY CALLED GERALD

ESSENCE

K7

The long-awaited comeback album from A Guy Called Gerald is a typically complex affair possessing a heavy bent towards vocals and searching lyrics. I didn't find this a particularly easy album to listen to. but it does run deep and so needs some sinking-in time. Ranging from ambient and downtempo. to breakbeat and sub-jungle rhythms. 'Essence' is a very suitable title for this well-rounded journey into the music of this maverick Mancunian producer. Vocalists involved in the project include Lamb's Louise Rhodes on the dreamy 'Humanity'. and Wendy Page. who features on six tracks. most critically 'Fever (Or A Flame)' and 'Universal Spirit'. sounding none too dissimilar to label-mates Smith & Mighty. and the wonderfully blissed out strains of 'Beaches and Deserts'. Male vocals come from David Simpson on the retro reggae breakbeat of 'Could You Understand' and the similarly styled 'I Make It'. which are full of that old S.U.A.D. flava. Finally. Lady Miss Kier appears on the junglist inflections of 'Hurry To Go Easy'. I was quite harsh on this album upon first listen so. if you feel such sentiments to begin with. try and give it a bit more time to properly do its work on you. RA