Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid

"Tongues" is the latest collaboration between electronica whizzkid, Kieran Hebden, and legendary jazz percussionist, Steve Reid. Their third album for Domino Records and their fourth collaboration altogether, "Tongues" is a much more accesible and structured album than the previous "Exchange Sessions" volumes.

The aesthetics remain the same and there is still that wonderful improvisational edge. But this album flows better, with a series of shorter, more dynamic tracks. A result of extensive touring and performing to a wide range of audiences, Reid has a telepahtic understanding with his "new found musical soulmate", Hebden.

Hebden, of course, is held in high esteem for his work as Four Tet and through his band, Fridge. Steve Reid is a little more mysterious to us younger folk. He has honed his dazzling drumming skills over the last 40+ years, performing with greats such as Sun Ra, James Brown and Miles Davis.

Thankfully, "Tongues" still encompasses those first-take, instant experiemtns form previous efforts. But it is more channelled, more explosive and a little less exploratory. Perhaps Reid & Hebden have arrived at their perfrct sound. Reid's dazzling percussion is perfectly complimented by the colourful notes, tones, noises, bleeps and effects from Hebden's distinctive palette. It is the sound of two influential musicians ,from their respective generations, coming together to create music that is compelling and inspirational.

"The Sun Never Sets" mp3 - Kieran Hebden and Steve Reid