The Balloon Room / Height EP is the first in a string of releases by Ashley Beedle (one third of X-Press 2) on new label Out Hear Audio, which sees him strive further in cementing his love of ‘great black music’.
The EP features A&B sides, of more significance to the vinyl junkies amongst us, than the masses of CD & Mp3 collectors. On the A-side Ashley and the London Heavy Disco Revue pay tribute to top thumping 70’s ballroom disco with ‘The Balloon Room’. Funk is the order of the day with carefree and string-laden melodies, yet it falls somewhat short of being fully distinguished.
On the flipside, ‘Height’ continues much in the same nature as Balloon Room in carrying forward the 70’s vibe. Here, sunny jazz-flecked soul is built on top of a beautifully laidback groove. The effect is perhaps less instant, but is more likely to leave a lasting impression.
