It’s been nearly five years since Domu dramtically retired from the music business and producing in general, but today sees the surprise release of some fresh music from the much loved broken beat pioneer on new fledgling label Sector 12/12.
It’s no surprise to learn that Domu was one of our favourite artists, his rugged and fierce rhythms always guaranteed to mash up a dance, while as a DJ, his technical skill and dexterity behind the decks always resulted in an inspirational set or two (although not a live set, check out one of his last ever promo mixes from 2009). He was one of a number of leading producers who sustained the broken beat movement for over a decade, consistently pushing the sound in ever interesting directions to the point that his expansive discography is peppered with various aliases, assorted BPMs and genre-hopping.
The three track ‘Under The Weather’ EP is released digitally today and in true Domu style offers up three very different tracks to enjoy. ‘Rain All Day (VIP)’ finds his signature sound updated for a new decade, featuring as it does his trademark heavy breaks coupled with a recurring pitched up vocal sample and sweeping, atmospheric pads. ‘Sunshrine (VIP)’ takes things in a slightly housier direction and perhaps is the pick of the bunch, a heads down groove driving things forward while a bouncy bassline keeps things interesting. The final track sees the producer’s Umod alter ego revisited. ‘Rain Or Shine’ is a lush hip-hop inspired instrumental that slowly unravels into a soul fuelled beat with jazzy keys and electric bass. All that’s missing is a Nicole Kramer vocal and this would be vintage Domu circa 2001.
Who knows what lies ahead for the producer moving forward – it’s perhaps a little premature to think that he’ll return to a production schedule that amassed so many classic tunes in such a short space of time. However, this EP is a suitable taster to either introduce (or reintroduce) yourself to the man that we perhaps thought we would never hear from again.
You can stream all three tracks below and should you need them in your life permanently, head on over to the Sector 12/12 Bandcamp and add them to your collection.