Album: Hermitude - Threads

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Quite often in Hip Hop, producers seem to go un-noticed. Being an art form inevitably revolved around the vocals, the MC is usually the focal point. Sydney's Hermitude have proven this theory wrong with their huge army of Australian fans.

Their third album Threads is a very appealing listen. While maintaining a vibe for mellow, downbeat tracks, they also show case several up-tempo numbers that will surprise some listeners. A bunch of vocalists and MCs feature here, and they provide an added diversity. The highlight would be reggae singer Luciano's track New People. After the first few cuts traversing a very similar path of production, this track is a feel-good number possessing a strong melody, nice guitar and the much needed pop sensibility.

It's also interesting to note that Urthboy was credited with some of the songwriting. Two of the four vocal tracks, New People and Frayed he wrote, plus he also spits a verse on You Call. Hau from Koolism also takes care of things on Exhale, as well as that he performs the hook which is a bit of an odd move but it seems to pay off. The way the dude raps is always entertaining because his confidence and hunger always come across so well. The saxophone played is also helpful in capturing the vibrant energy of the song.

Frayed is sung by Steve Clisby, but as opposed to other vocal tracks, the singing remains more of a background instrument while the instrumentation is being made as the most important part of the song.The piano played across the song sound beautiful as it sets the mood for the song perfectly.

The River is another interesting track that’s focused around a simple drum beat, but progressively moves louder and more atmospheric with a keyboard loop played over the top. Later on the track is given a brass make-over as a trombone is added to create more energy.

Hermitude move into electro territory on Cartridge Kings which has a heavy bass line and a slightly drum n bass rhythm.  This is not an idea that’s explored much on the record but it’s a very effective move. The turntablism is one aspect that is also appealing here. Often the samples and different layers of instruments are enough to appeal to listeners, but hearing scratches over the top of the tracks is the icing on the cake.

Threads is an intriguing listen, with plenty of thought and devotion gone into the production process. It’s a great instrumental record that can be enjoyed without sounding monotonous or familiar. For all the people expecting to hear a hip-hop album without the vocals – think again, this is a lot more then that.

Available through Elefant Traks