Keepintime was an original idea by photographer of hip hop artists (and Damian Marley) Brian Cross (aka B+) who, together with his partner at Mochilla, Eric Coleman, were to get four of the most notable (and sampled) LA session drummers together with some of the West Coast’s best DJs for a filmed interview session. This led to a sell-out show in LA which included Paul Humphrey, James Gadson and Derf Reklaw — which in turn led to a trip to Brazil for a Latin version of the concept.

Part 3 starts with Madlib’s younger brother Oh No and his ‘A Remix In Three Parts’. It’s a mini opus with a cut-up introduction, followed by downtempo synth-beat with Toccata twiddles and ending with a faster synth’n’scratch section. The b-side also features the previously released, heavily percussive, ‘Paulista Remix’ by Eric (also check that flute solo). However, this 12” will primarily appeal to fans for the new remixes.

If you think scratchin’ on the turntable-mixer isn’t an musical art form, check out the previously unreleased ‘Doble Ooh Remix’ by GB, Mainframe and Ricci Rucker. It’ll change your mind and you’ll see why it’s called an ‘Ooh’ mix; makes you wanna break-dance whilst being subtle at the same time.

Another new name to me is Ta’raach on a ‘Loveution Remix’, which features Derf in a downbeat funky groove.

The last track is produced by Rednose Distrikt, who is normally to be found on Holland’s Kindred Spirit label. This remix is in two parts; the samba-based beats part one (which is what the project is all about in the first place) and a part two in a minimal bruk style.

It’s taken a little while for this release to cross the pond but it’s worth looking out for as the ‘source’ material for the remixes is so good. Shame it’s the last part of the series but exciting that it’s off to Brazil next.

Note: excellent photo by B+ of Derf Reklaw for the cover.

Reviewed:
Various - Keepintime 12” Series: No. 3 of 3 (Up Above Records) Cat. No. UPA 3098-1 12” US Release: Nov 2005
Style: Instrumental, Broken Beat, Future Jazz, Hip Hop
Credits: Drums - Earl Palmer , James Gadson , Paul Humphrey , Roy Porter
Tracklisting:
A1. Oh No - ‘A Remix In Three Parts’
A2. GB , Mainframe & Ricci Rucker - ‘Doble Ooh Remix’
B1. Ta’Raach - ‘Lovelution Remix’ Featuring - Derf Reklaw
B2. Eric Coleman - ‘Paulista Remix’
B3. Rednose Distrikt Remix

Links:
www.keepintime.com
www.mochilla.com
http://www.upabove.com
www.kindred-spirits.nl
Available at Universal Sounds @ www.souljazzrecords.co.uk, 7 Broadwick Street, Soho, London W1F 0DA