The much anticipated sophomore full length from Lord Echo is here! Lord Echo (aka New Zealand-based multi-intrumentalist and producer Mike Fabs) follows up 2010's cult classic Melodies with Curiosities, another brilliant foray into the world of dub-tinged disco, boogie-laced funk, and futuristic soul. Equally effective in the headphones and the dancefloor, Curiosities showcases Fabs dual-mastery of 60's production techniques and modern dancefloor aesthetics, while also highlighting the vocal prowess of his soulful New Zealand collaborators. Check the sound and prepare to be impressed. Highlights include "Bohemian Idol," "Digital Haircut," "Steet Knowledge," "What Is That Feeling," and "Put In My Head." If you slept on his last album (which is now a sought-after piece of wax championed by tastemakers like Gilles Peterson, Oliver Wang, and Richard Dorfmeister) be sure not to miss this one! 10 tracks with pic sleeve, recommended.

• music label: Bastard Jazz 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 11/2013