After a bit of confusion to where it was (they moved it downstairs because funkstrung were upstairs) we proceeded to get comfy in the basement of Minke, as once again Altitude showcased the finest dnb talent Adelaide has to offer. This month we were witness to the highest quality dnb made in Adelaide, that by Hooligan Soul, who are the well known MC’s Pab and G-Swift (aka Grif). While I’m still unconvinced that the world “live” is really applicable to these guys, as I still have trouble seeing a guy behind a computer pressing the spacebar as “live”, their performance is fantastic and their tracks are simply going to blow up big time!
When I arrived we were greeted by the cool sounds of Jayar. This guy is finally bringing some change to the way Adelaide listens to dnb, and I strongly suggest you give his CD a listen. Then Hooligan Soul commenced their mellow set. There was a rather small crowd about, and once the guys started playing people ventured out onto the floor. Their first set was comprised of a variety of smooth tunes, and Grif MC’d over the top of the tunes while Pab played with the effects and levels. It was refreshing to hear a dnb set that doesn’t contain the same old tunes as everyone else for once.
After them stepped up Tommy Jnr, who is one of my favourite dnb DJ’s, who doesn’t get nearly enough gigs for his talent, and he dropped a very sweet selection in his smooth as ever style. Miss Ribbon and I had the opportunity to go upstairs and see Funkstrom, and I didn’t let the opportunity pass, but wasn’t too impressed, and got back in time for Hooligan Souls last set.
Well, this time there were a lot more people around and the boys decided to go harder. They have got some AMAZINGLY phat basslines over the chunkiest beats you’ll hear, and had everyone in the place bouncing to their sound. Being the MC’s they are, Pab and Grif couldn’t resist going back-to-back being one of the highlights of the night. The other highlight was definitely the Fat Boy Slim Bootleg, which I hear is getting released, which is excellent news not only for the boys, but for Adelaide as well.
For me the night finished up with John Doe, again playing a fine selection of tunes in his uncompromising style. With Hooligan Soul, along with 5158 Records and Bigdog, Adelaide is finally getting its act together and it’s about bloody time. For years I’ve heard great tunes made by these guys, and it’s looking like they’re finally going to get the recognition they deserve.