Larry de Kat is a multifaceted individual. Apart from being a DJ and producer, he’s also a live act and label owner of considerable distinction. It’s his unique sound and ability to move effortlessly between mediums and genres that has quickly endeared him to many, with Gilles Peterson, The Black Madonna, Axel Boman, Laurent Garnier, Midland and Jazzanova among those who’ve waxed lyrical about his dizzyingly eclectic and always intriguing sounds.
His latest release – brought to us via his own imprint, Katnip – is a fitting example of just why he’s so revered. A fascinating prospect that moves from breezy sounds to quirky, oddball vibes, it bares all the hallmarks of a producer who’s willing to experiment and be greatly rewarded for doing so. A release that’s similar in approach to something that DJ Koze would conjure up, it’s full of enticing, mystical sounds of the sort that have brought Larry to the attention of Dungeon Meat, Slapfunk, Adult Only, Times are Ruff and Banofee Pies.
On to the music, and as is Larry’s forte, we kick off with a ‘Miaoness’, a daft interlude that’s a sign of things to come. The gloriously, summer-tinged ‘Moving Fingaz’ comes next, complete with beautiful melodies throughout. ‘B With U’ ups the ante considerably with a throwback house sound that’s hard not to get down to. A raucous banger that’s never boring, its sample-heavy sounds are a true joy to behold.
‘7DJ’ then plays out like a canny DJ tool, before the B side gets underway thanks to ‘insecure’. By this point, Larry is more focused on subtleties than big impressions. ’Trapped’ brings matters down a peg or ten, as the produce reverts to a more spaced-out, cosmic vibe. The home straight is characterised first by ‘I Lost Track’, featuring the astoundingly beautiful vocal talents of Juno. If ever there was a track to listen to kick back and throw on during a sunny, carefree afternoon, then this one is surely it. Finally,. ‘C’mon’ again sees Larry exercise his penchant for peak-time flavours. The sort of banging track that forces parallels with the best of Mr G’s output, it closes the release with an absolute bang.
Release Date: 16/07
Get your copy here