December 11, 2019
Hip Dozer
Based in York, UK, Handbook is a music producer who specialises in instrumental hip-hop/lo-fi/soundtrack genres. Over the past decade, drawing on inspirational artists such as J Dilla, Madlib and Bibio, Handbook has continued to develop his signature sound: prominent samples, warm bass lines and propulsive drums. Alongside a handful of talented artists, Handbook continues to define his unique sound and establish his place in the musical landscape. Come Away With Me is a contemplative release. Drawing upon inspiration from nature and introspective thought, Handbook has produced an enthralling and mesmerising song that deserves the listener's attention. Samples that are simultaneously familiar, yet undiscovered, field sounds that are both reassuring and evocative, and a narrative that transcends words, Handbook has created a world to be subdued in, to be calm in, and to be reflective in. Co-driven by a producer team from the French chill-beats and hip hop scene, Hip Dozer is a key player in a booming genre that explores the heritage of producers such as Nujabes, J Dilla or Pete Rock. The label highlights emerging acts as well as other iconic producers in these instrumental hip-hop scene, a real internet phenomenon that brings millions of people together every day around Youtube lives and other Spotify playlists. Representing the scene and its eclecticism, this fourth edition, similar to an All Star Game, brings together the most accomplished artists and the most promising beatmakers. A way of showing through 28 tracks that those producers, often limited to the adjective « lo-fi », have some groove left on their MPCs. As Neil Degrasse Tyson in the cosmos, this album explores inspirations, curiosities and secrets of these producers. An electrifying and surprising journey through hip hop soundscape. From boom bap for fans of Dilla's productions, to jazz for Guru enthousiast, funk, electronica and even The Jetsons, Hip Dozer's compilation Volume 4 is a must-have for any hip hop head.