a, Arts & Entertainment, Music

Bonobo: The North Borders

Bonobo is back, and he has evolved. The North Borders, the British producer’s first album of original material since 2010’s Black Sands, boasts a heavily modern UK garage sound with inflections of fellow garage artist Burial.

Simon Green, also known as Bonobo, is the most popular guy on the Ninja Tune label. This album will only further solidify his status as one of the UK’s go-to producers.

The North Borders is exciting and vibrant, and begs to be played over and over again. Fans of the producer will not be disappointed with a track that features Erykah Badu, as well as songs that involve many new voices.

Standout tracks include single “Cirrus” and “Emkay,” the latter featuring a somewhat slouchy, loungey intro that evolves into a fast-paced garage track.

“Cirrus” (presumably named after the type of cloud) reaches lofty heights, transporting the listener to an airy, otherworldly realm with layers of light synths and chimes.

Album closer “Pieces” (with vocals by Cornelia) is a charming ditty, bordering on ballad territory. However, Bonobo maintains a heavy feel with the track—not surrendering completely to the pretty, whimsical sounds of the vocals.

All in all, this entire album is stunning, without even one dud track. It takes a couple of listens to fully get into some of the songs, but once you do, it’s definitely worth it.

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