EP: Sticky Blood 'I.D.' - GigslutzGigslutz

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Sticky Blood – the Sheffield based partnership of one time Arctic Monkey Andy Nicholson and Jamie Shield – have started forging a reputation since they started working together last year, no doubt helped by working alongside artists such as George The Poet and Terri Walker. Their debut EP demonstrates their passion for a wide spectrum of electronic music, notably grime and hip-hop, as well as showcasing some (very) young, new vocal talents.

Headline track ‘Professional’ featuring Hekky is a soundscape of brooding bass and contrasting minimalism, showcasing the percussive abilities of both members, as well as an interesting lyrical content. For a couple whose background is chiefly production it’s no surprise that this is very classy, and reveals various sonic tricks.

Much more gritty and contemporary is ‘I.D.’, featuring 16 year old young rapper Ajay Carter. The deep basslines and synth heavy backing track sit comfortably next to Carter’s lyrical delivery. Typical of any number of UK acts, the content is aggressive, urban and acerbic, but there is actually a clever retro influence in Carter’s style that suggests access to a long and credible record collection.

Of the collaborations on the EP this is the one that sounds like it could stand out from a very congested crowd, and it will be interesting to see the direction taken on any long player in the near future.

‘Gravy’ is a less complicated, more obvious UK hip-hop track that never quite grabs the attention or has the raw excitement of the two previous tracks. It will be exciting to watch how this project matures and evolves and where they take this part of their career. They have started their own label, Card Gang, on which to release their own and other artist’s music which will give them the quality and content control they are after.

Until that future unveils itself this is a really enjoyable teaser and should garner enough attention to ensure these two talented individuals are encouraged to release more exciting, energetic UK music.

I.D. is out now via Card Gang music.