Ya boy Benedek bringing that next level new age funk fusion to ride to. Following well-received releases on PPU and Arcane, the LA-based producer/multi-instrumentalist returns to Leaving Records for a full length excursion into pure funk-driven zones of house, boogie, electro and more. Compared to Benedek's previous full length, Bene's World boasts a noticeable rise in BPM, with many tracks grooving at house tempo, but always cruising and never in a rush. Peep the opener "On My Way," "Big Nite City," or "Afterglo" to find Benedek flexing serious musicality with the house swing. "Castle 2 Castle" even goes the classic electro route, and we can't help but think its a stylistically perfect homage to genre pioneer Paul Hardcastle. For the more personal moments - "Westin," "Tuff Luv," and "Sonatine" drop it down to slower territory where Benedek's funk mastery truly shines. Quality front to back, throw this on and just ride. Recommended.

• music label: Leaving Records 2017

reviewed by St. Boba 08/2017