Dabeull – Analog Love
Paris-based Roche Musique is around since 2012 and was founded by Jean Janin. Early on, they signed such unique artsts as FKJ and Darius and Wayne Snow and in 2014, added Dabeull to its roster. After numerous singles, he released a 12-song compilation album in 2017 called “Indastudio” which was followed by a five-track EP in 2019 called “Intimate Fonk”. And just about two weeks ago, his latest album “Analog Love” came out. The musician, singer, and producer is known for his 80s-driven “Newfonk” sound incorporating mostly analog instruments and the notorious talkbox. He was on tour in Europe with his full band earlier this month and we missed his show in Berlin unfortunately.
“Analog Love” was recorded on the same console which was used for Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” LP in 1982. And it actually does sound like an early 80s disco/funk/soul record. Working with Yacht Rock producer, DJ, and musician Rude Jude (Julian Getreau), he starts things off in classic 80s style with “Sweet Baby”, easily transporting you back to the good old days of boogie meets funk meets jazz. Dabeull enlisted singer HolyBrune (Laura Chaudet) who also records for his own Dabeull Records label and California-based G-Funk rapper Dezzy Hollow for a sweet and slowed-down soul tune called “Let’s Play”. The talkbox plays a major role on “In My Mind”, complete with its schlepping soul groove and sexy backing vocals and an appropriate sax solo.
“Body Heat”, one of the songs which was already released prior to the album, sounds like a Rod Temperton/Quincy Jones collaboration and once again features HolyBrune on vocals. Might have come straight out of “The Dude” sessions. Great dance groove and impressive production. Portland-based singer Reva DeVito can be heard on the Loose Ends-ish “I Can’t Stop”; the vocals stepping back a little to the background and handclaps and synths morphing into this sensual ditty. Very “Thriller”-like sounding keys and production tools. The same actually applies to “Chronic Lovers”. Ultra cool stuff. Reminding me of sitting in front of my radio circa 1983 and listening to Belgium-based legendary radio show “Funky Town” which was broadcast on national radio BRT2 back then.
On “What’Cha Wanna Do”, Dabeull throws in some early 80s Shakatak keys with a slow-slurping beat. There is more light funk delight on “Look In The Mirror” and the fancy midtempo album closer “Fabulous Kisses” rounds up this highly entertaining 38-minute set.
Dabeull plays Broken Steel in Brooklyn on September 24th, Bimbo’s 365 in San Francisco on September 27th which is already sold out, and The Novo in Los Angeles on September 28th.
