First Listen : iZem – ‘Major Stef’ (Enchufada)

On June 27, 2018 by hyponik in Exclusive, Features, First Listen

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The French-born Jérémie Moussaid Kerouanton, aka iZem, writes music whilst travelling, absorbing influences along the way, making him a perfect fit for the Portuguese outfit Enchufada. Headed up by previous Hyponik podcast contributor Branko, the label releases music that reflects Lisbon’s international outlook, ‘the city where the African, South-American and European continents meet to eat, drink and dance the night away.’

With an album on Soundway and an EP on G.A.M.M., Kerouanton has established a sound that showcases world music with an approach rooted in jazz and hip-hop. ‘Beni Lane,’ his latest EP, sees a return to his signature melodic and organic approach to global sounds, combined with a new focus on the dancefloor. Introducing heavier percussive elements and afro-house to the mix, Kerouanton celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of Lisbon’s nightlife scene.

The opening track, ‘Major Stef,’ plays like a patchwork of jazz drum solos with the suggestion of a metronome ticking away in the background. Full of lush chords, it’s a promising start to an impressively varied EP. Take a listen.

Beni Lane is out on June 29th on Enchufada.

Pre-order it here.