Dance

Rip It Up, Issue 201, 1 May 1994, Page 30

Dance

DIRECTIONS IN GROOVE Dig Deeper (ld/Polygram)

I was one of a very select group of people who saw Sydney’s Directions In Groove (DIG) when they played at the Gluepot last year and I bought their first EP on the strength of their performance. The band capitalise on the market generated by the rebirth of cool phenomenon and labels like Talkin’ Loud and Acid Jazz. They fuse local themes (didgeridoo on ‘Two Way Dreamtime') to the more generic (’Hip Replacement’ & 'The DIG Theme') and re-runs of material off their first EP, a remix (it sounds the same to me) of ‘Re-Invent Yourself.’ The album has a smooth, slow tempo that the unkind among us may call boring. I prefer to say that they are better live where their contemporary Hammond organ and sax centred jazz excites small crowded smoky clubs. Buy now and get a free three track live CD.

JUBTAVERY

BROWNSWOOD WORKSHOP Multidirection (Phonogram)

People who picked up on that little gem from Japan, the United Future Organization (UFO) album, will have bought this compilation already. UFO’s infectious international debut exposed the world to what is obviously a new country to keep an ear on. In terms of international exposure Japan features very low in the music stakes, although I think Jean Michael Jarre did a Live in Tokyo LP once. UFO produced this collection of their musical contemporaries which features a remix of ‘Upa Neguinho’ off their album. This collection combines modern studio technique with a chunky-bass sound and strong Latin-jazz influences. And these artists write their songs! They show progression, not just one concept hammered to death. Songs to look out for: ‘Fly-Way’ by the Independent Colors, bass-heavy with a 70s samba feel, Muro for funky Japanese rap and Small Circle of Friends

with the soul influenced ‘Sittin’ On the Fence.’ Turn it on, leave it in. JUBTAVERY

I ZHANE Pronounced Jah-Nay (Motown/Polygram)

Zhane have had ridiculously high rotate on The Max for their hit ‘Hey Mr. DJ’ — I guess people have found their blend of lightweight hip-hop and soul appealing. The name of the album seems indicative of the creativity of subject matter. Songs with titles like ‘Groove Thang’, ‘La La La’ and ‘Vibe’ lead me to the reluctant conclusion that my only refuge is to be the music. Zhane have a remarkably good grasp of pop-hooks, with a minimalist feel. The duo’s vocal style is popular soul with funk bass-lines and sing-along choruses. Destined to do well in the Mai FM record buying market.

JUBT AVERY