The Nextmen are one of my favourite live acts and their onstage energy is infectious and fun. Friends & Family is unfortunately a mere studio mix and misses capturing some of their live vibe, but is the perfect summer album, full of funky, laid back, head bobbing sounds, great for a Sunday arvo recovery.

Starting with a superbly edited funky intro, the album cruises along nicely as beats from Madlib, Mr Scruff, People Under The Stairs, Tipper, and more are expertly mixed together with accapella’s from artists such as Soulson and Rodney P.

The smooth sounds continue from the funk of Quantic Soul Orchestra and Kid Named Miles, to the reggae dub of Lee Perry and Bob Marley. The Nextmen also throw in some of their own material in the form of a remixed Spin It Round, plus lend their hand to remixes of Fat Freddy’s Drop and Atlantic Conveyor.

I must admit I am a teeny bit disappointed with Family & Friends. I’d like to hear something that better captures the Nextmen’s live performance, but we can’t always get what we want and I do love the smooth sounds represented on this mix, and have listened to it many times whilst relaxing in the sun after a big weekend.