aaamusic | On 16, May 2012

Reel Me Records are delighted to announce the release of ‘Crazy’, the first single taken from Laid Blak’s forthcoming album Red & Blak. Topical and infectious in equal measure, it’s an unflinching look at the issue of rioting, from the point of view of a band whose social conscience has always been as strong as their mastery of the dancefloor.

Laid Blak have been at the heart of Bristol’s urban reggae scene for over half a decade, drawing inspiration and energy from their home city, and using this to fuel the gigs and releases that have gained them a cult local following. Now the rest of the world is taking notice, resulting in a Rototom award for best Northern European reggae band, and support slots with international stars such as Aswad, Nitin Sawhney and Julian Marley.

The group have a global appeal, with musical tastes as wide as the grins on their audiences’ faces. Yet they always carry a bit of the West Country with them, and ‘Crazy’ is a perfect introduction to the fiercely individual sound this has spawned. Opening with a crackle of static and a radio report on street violence, it’s not long before the band slam into the mix, establishing an irresistibly squelchy groove as sirens echo all round them. This is a gritty, highly-detailed track that could only have emerged from living in a city, but it is punctuated by sweet vocal melodies that are as beautiful as a summer party sunset.

Formed initially as a studio project showcasing the talents of Jungle veterans DJ Bunjy and MC Joe Peng, Laid Blak have since grown into a heavyweight eight-piece outfit described as ‘the ultimate festival act’  by Brighton Noise. ‘Crazy’ is the first of several Laid Blak releases on Reel Me Records over the next few months, and is available to buy from April 30th.

Online: www.myspace.com/laidblak   / www.facebook.com/Laidblak  / www.last.fm/music/Laid+Blak  / www.discogs.com/artist/Laid+Blak  / www.twitter.com/Laidblak