- Following on from his debut release on re:connect, Neil Briggs AKA High Eight returns with a heavy platter of two original tunes. So far he's pulled off remixes for labels like Full Intent, Skydive Recordings and Bless Records and also hosts his own show on Breaks FM.
Side A. Open Your Eyes
High Eight must have learnt a thing or two from Future Funk Squad as the drum programming has distinct elements of FFS' style - stabby kick drums, thin hi-hats combined with crashing snares. After a short breakdown a big electro hook kicks in with a dirty rolling bassline taking care of the bottom end. Another drop takes place in the middle featuring female sci-fi vocal stabs before the tune goes half tempo (about 70 bpms) for a wicked hip hop style breakdown before the tempo doubles back to the original theme.
Side B. Thru Time
On the flip, Thru Time features a funkier breakbeat with a melodic bassline before it crosses over into trancey territories featuring a massive synth hook and a lovely piano melody. An epic female vocal is introduced during the middle beatdrop who sings in acappella before the beats and melodies build up and accompany her to the end. It's a really musical effort with catchy hooks and vocals on a serious note - perhaps more suited to sister label en:vision.