“The Bells Sketch” is saturated with James Blake’s forward-thinking style. He layers soulful vocal samples, synth-generated melodies, and a boogie-inspired bassline on top of tastefully unquantized drum hits, and the result is an extremely sophisticated track that explores new sonic territories of dubstep. The London-based producer also delivers “Buzzard & Kestrel” and “Give A Man A Rod,” two super solid cuts that fall under the “dubstep” umbrealla but exude so much soul and depth as Blake draws from R&B and gospel sounds to construct the tracks. This release definitely solidifies his status as one of the most talented and innovative post-dubstep producers. Recommended.

• music label: Hessle Audio 2010

reviewed by Nakinboots 05/11