Keep It Unreal

by John BushThanks to imaginative programming on tracks like the single "Honeydew," Keep It Unreal is yet another accomplished work by breakbeat maestro Mr. Scruff. The vibes definitely triumph over any progression on these tracks, but the album's diverse moods and tempos work magic. The galloping gait and what sounds like a Louis Jordan sample power "Get a Move On," while the next track "Midnight Feast" has the late-night feel of a Portishead single. The single "Honeydew" has a rich, soulful vocal that lifts the song into Soul II Soul territory while the cagey, metallic drum programs sound straight off a driving new wave single. "Cheeky" is a deep-groove house number with bright piano lines and an echoed diva vocal. Several tracks are reminiscent of Amon Tobin's swing-era plunderphonics, but most everything here is original, well-done, and prime Mr. Scruff.