Jazz EP

The sixth release from Them On The Hill spotlights two producers and is unified by a jazzier deep house sound. It is, after all, the Jazz EP. Included within: Raw - "Digital Jazz Fix" Better known as DJ Raw (he has stepped away from the decks and dropped the 'DJ' part), Raw is a longtime staple of Sheffield's dance music scene, starting his career on local community radio playing a mix of UK and US house in the 80s. In 1997 Raw collaborated with Callum Wordsworth as Digital Boogie, releasing tunes for DIY Discs, Funknose, and Candy Records. Also, Raw worked with fellow Sheffield DJ/producer Groove Assassin as Vibes Inc., contributing seminal tunes for labels like Glasgow Underground, 4th Floor, Transport, and Black Vinyl Records. For Them On The Hill, Raw presents "Digital Jazz Fix," a flowing track with intricate rhythms and percussion, swinging keys, and a few well-placed vocal drops. The track definitely harks back to a different time, and would probably not sound out of place at one of the collective's mid-90's warehouse parties. In 1988, Raw toured New Zealand with another Sheffield DJ, Tempo, and his magical time on the island inspired the accompanying NZ Dub Mix. It's a warmer, more liquid take that grooves and moves, suitable for some proper summertime action. Darren Clark - "Free Form" Continuing with the New Zealand inspiration, Them On The Hill snags Auckland resident Darren Clark for the the next track, the swirling, deep house treasure that is "Free Form." Darren started out on saxophone, playing in a funk-reggae band in his formative years, but quickly caught the house music bug after experiencing the acclaimed Mum's The Word club night in Auckland. Darren's knowledge of music, including classic funk, disco, and rock, influences a deep, perceptive sound in his own writing and production. His debut Darren Clark Project EP, released by Lou Gorbea's Omi Tutu Productions, garnered attention from the likes of Ron Trent, DJ Gregory, and Jay Tripwire. Darren's cut "Free Form" was inspired by the spirit of Pharaoh Sanders and soulful jazz in general, leading to a building, growling deep house track with loads of layers and evocative sonic elements. The cut uses a bit of analog technology to add warmth, and the pronounced, steady bass line caresses like a hypnotic hug. It's gorgeous stuff, and certain to be a highlight of after-hours sets the world over.