Since the announcement of their very own label showcase starting in the autumn, we’ve been growing evermore excited as 22a’s inaugural event draws nearer. Only adding more fuel to the fire is the label’s newest release, an EP of two halves occupied by UK rapper Do£ Boy and vocalist Shepherd. Like only they know how, 22a bring the vibes on 22a007 and we’re pleased to premiere our favourite Sherpherd cut.
‘No Thunder’, produced by Reginald Omas Mamode IV, is a soulful joint that’ll give you that lean and bounce that is unmistakably 22a. Inching in with a head bopping drum pattern and background hollers of approval, a funk-smeared bass line muscles in to lead the track into its contagious groove. Sheperd’s vocal line stirs memories of Prince with eighties style harmony effects, and swims casually in and out of the foreground, topped off by falsetto ad-libs and routine Rhodes chords cementing the tracks earthy soul feel.
22a007 is released on 2nd October on both vinyl and digital formats – pre-order a copy now from the label’s Bandcamp. Catch the 22a Label Showcase at Stour Space on 10th October.
For more 22a on STW, check out the following:
22a Label Spotlight (mixed by Tenderlonious)
Premieres of Reginald Omas Mamode IV and Henry Wu
Monday Morning Mixtapes curated by Henry Wu and Reginald Omas Mamode IV
