Artist: Alex Reece Album: So Far

Year: 1996
Duration: 0:0-1

A of the Album: So Far by Alex Reece

Alex Reece was a UK-based drum and bass producer who started his career in the early 90s. He released his first album, So Far, in 1996, which received critical acclaim for its innovative sound, combining live instrumentation and soulful vocals with the electronic beats of drum and bass. In this , we will take a closer look at the album, its music genre, the best songs, the most innovative parts, and give our honest opinion on its overall impact.
The album, So Far, was a game-changer in the world of drum and bass. It combined the soulful and melodic sounds of jazz and funk with the high-tempo beats of drum and bass. This innovative fusion of different genres gave birth to a new style called liquid funk, which still influences modern drum and bass today. So Far was also one of the first drum and bass albums to include live instrumentation, such as saxophones, pianos, and guitars, giving it a more organic and warm sound.
The album's best songs include Candles, Jazz Master, and Basic Principles. Candles is the standout track, with its smooth guitar riffs, dreamy vocals, and euphoric synths. Jazz Master is another classic, with its funky bassline, sharp saxophone solos, and addictive beats. Basic Principles is the album's opening track, setting the tone with its soulful piano chords, hypnotic drum breaks, and uplifting vocals.
One of the most innovative parts of the album is the use of soulful vocals in drum and bass tracks. Alex Reece collaborated with several vocalists, such as Debbie Charles and DJ Pulse, to add more emotion and depth to his music. The combination of complex beats and beautiful vocals creates a unique listening experience that stands out from other drum and bass albums of that era.
However, there are a few weak points in the album that must be addressed. Some of the tracks, such as Feel the Sunshine, feel repetitive and lack the creativity of others. The album also lacks a sense of cohesive structure, with some tracks feeling like they were added for the sake of it. Nevertheless, these weaknesses do not overshadow the groundbreaking nature of the album and its impact on the world of music.
In conclusion, Alex Reece's debut album, So Far, is a classic of its genre, with its innovative sound, soulful vocals, and live instrumentation. Its impact on drum and bass and the birth of a new sub-genre, liquid funk, cannot be overstated. The album's standout tracks, such as Candles and Jazz Master, showcase the best of Alex Reece's talent and creativity, while the use of vocals adds a new dimension to the more traditional drum and bass sound. Despite a few weak points, the album remains an essential listen for any music lover and a testament to the power of innovation in music.