- Karizma is one of house music's quiet legends. The Baltimorean has never quite reached the dizzying heights of some of his peers, and yet the persistent, honest quality of his output as a DJ and producer commands the kind of respect most yearn for. Continuing to work closely with London-based label R2 Records, his latest EP is the first in a new series aimed primarily at DJs.
Beats and Bobs Vol. 1 presents varying shades of Karizma's output. Opener "Bounce Bitch" is the sort of thing he's most famous for, layering raw stabs over rickety kicks, wooden knocks and shrill quivers. Though simple—and at seven minutes a little drawn out—it's a potent tool for house DJs looking to stamp their authority on the room. His Kaytronik dub of "Tech This Out" is a deeper late-night affair and similarly straightforward. Scruffy claps and snares clamber atop pudgy kicks, propelled forward by the hypnotic tumble of a one-note synth line. "K To The P" has us removed from the dance floor altogether, as sweet-sounding chimes flitter over broken beats, maracas and the occasional rude bass hit. It's the most beguiling of the three, wrapping up a release that's pleasant on the ears, without really tapping into the heart of Karizma's artistry.
Tracklist01. Bounce Bitch
02. Tech This Out (Kaytronik Dub)
03. K to the P