- Chaos In The CBD have a broader range than most. Over the last three years, brothers Benjamin Julian and Louis Simon Helliker-Hales have made everything from 808 cowbell drum tracks for ClekClekBoom to synth-reinforced techno for Amadeus Records. Now, on Rhythm Section International, they've delivered a drowsy, soul-soaked house EP with piano and low-key sax solos culled from dimly lit jazz bars.
Midnight In Peckham reflects the tangled knot of hip-hop, soul, jazz, funk and house at the centre of Rhythm Section International. While a lot of the EP is very good, it lacks the mercurial touch the New Zealanders have demonstrated on other releases (in particular, the excellent disco-funk workouts of 816 To Nunhead). "Midnight In Peckham"'s nocturnal jazz tones evoke the imagined atmosphere of its title, but you could also enjoy it anytime, anywhere. "Observe," the sprightliest of the four tracks, tosses staccato piano and cymbal strokes onto a soothing bed of strings. Though good in their own right, "Trust Is Key" and "Luxury Motivation" cover ground that feels sufficiently explored by "Midnight In Peckham" and "Observe." The smacking drums of "Common Unity," a digital bonus featuring Archie Pelago, would've added some welcome variety to the 12-inch.
TracklistA1 Trust Is Key
A2 Observe
B1 Midnight In Peckham
B2 Luxury Motivation