atone

Atone – Live And Love Your Life (Shebeen/Vitamin Records)
By Wayne Stronell

The varying vocal incarnations of Ali Omar, from toasting, and soulful reggae influences, to the gruff ranting and mumbling he became renowned for, I wonder if Spaceape has ever heard Ali Omar’s style, are interspersed with vocals from Gina Mitchell, Jes, Andy Fitzgerald, to name a few. I’ve always thought Atone could have more exposure, Omar and Andy Fitzgerald creating crafted, modern dub experiments as good as Massive Attack, with a similar genre hopping vibe, intensity, but soul enhancing energy.

Highlights are always the ones that touch on a dub aesthetic, “Live And Love Your Life” cruises through a 6a.m. fog, evoking the spirit of Vangelis. “Reason Why” shows a newer direction, post rave stabs ride a funky dubstep rhythm, with the soulful vocals of Gina Mitchell. “Look At The Stars” hits the dubstep mark again, pounding rhythms, skittering percussion and rapid fire bass.