Simplicity Two Thousand

by Thom JurekAfterlife became giants of the downtempo and Ibiza scenes as Steven Miller signed with Hed Kandi and released the album Simplicity at the tail end of 1999. Miller had already established a name for himself at Ibiza with his Café Del Mar exploits, but Afterlife raised the bar, largely due to the glorious singing voice of partner Rachel Lloyd and guest vocalist Hermione. In October of 2000, Hed Kandi issued this package: a deluxe box containing the original album, a whole slew of remixes, and a few new tunes to boot. For Ibiza this would be perfect for a trip for the beach, but it serves the listener(s) better in the late-night hours where the breeze is right, the wine is chilled, and the lights are low. Sweet sugar vocals and a deep, throbbing bass with pervasive jazzy overtones define the overall sound of the two discs put together. The effect is very smooth, sensual, and funky. For variety there is a bit of atmospheric drum'n'bass tossed in, but it's just a passing notion. The most notable tracks are the remix of "Dub in Ya Mind;" "Glide;" "Cry;" and "Deeper -- Into Places;" -- either version. Try to get a picture of Sade with 4Hero in your mind and you have this one down. Heart music, love music, intimate music; this is truly in the "for lovers only" category.