Album Reviews

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5 years on from its initial release, Warp Records are reissuing the breakthrough downtempo album from Nightmares On Wax. Smokers Delight is one of those rare albums that defines a generation; its tripped out, genre-bending electronics are still the soundtrack to afterhours sessions even today and the fact it still remains relevant 25 years on is most definitely a cause for celebration. One of the records that kick-started the trip-hop movement that exploded at the time, Smokers Delight truly encapsulated the merging of vibrant subcultures that has continued to define the Nightmares On Wax sound ever since. The Leeds producer, George Evelyn, managed to bring together the wide range of influences, styles and sounds that seeped into his consciousness throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Moving effortlessly between hip-hop, soul, jazz, techno, dub, ambient, reggae and ska, the record was a cultural melting pot that celebrated so much about what makes British music culture so fascinating. It’s a record to chill out to, but it’s also bassy and full of druggy, thick atmospheres and a feeling of intoxication. Never too heavy and with pockets of light continuously escaping, Smokers Delight maintains a laidback and easygoing aesthetic. Deft use of killer samples was the finishing touch and completed what has since gone on to be a certified classic album. This anniversary issue comes with two new sonic jazz tracks and a version of the iconic Nights Introlude performed in Detroit, a city whose influence washes over the record. If you have somehow missed Smokers Delight until now, here is your chance – there is a reason it is still celebrated after 25 years. Tom Jones

ADD THESE TO YOUR PLAYLIST:

Nights Introlude, Bless My Soul, Rise (Reprise)|

10/10