In the resounding echo of vinyl’s resurgence, Groove To Grave Records emerges once again with a second installment, extending an invitation to the Parisian trio, Kitchen Plug. Known for their eclectic fusion spanning from Ghetto House to Breaks and Minimal, these avant-garde maestros craft sonic landscapes adorned with a tantalizing array of bass, metallic Acid, and raw percussive cadences. With their inaugural solo EP, “Cerberus“, on vinyl, Kitchen Plug embarks on a journey to infuse their signature ghetto style with an early 2000s Electro allure, promising a melodic odyssey that titillates the senses and captivates the mind. Within this sonic narrative lie four compositions, each a gem in its own right, culminating in a masterful remix from the esteemed Karaba.
The EP unfolds with “Hm That Bass,” a mesmerizing tale reminiscent of a young culinary virtuoso discovering the elusive secret behind a sumptuously round and saucy gourmet bassline. True to its title, the track orchestrates a symphony of lush bass tones interwoven with spicy acidic bleeps, akin to savory ingredients delicately sprinkled within a delectable melody. Kitchen Plug’s deft craftsmanship shines through, painting a vivid sonic tableau that beckons listeners into a realm of gastronomic delight.
Segueing seamlessly into “Amor da Fonseca,” Kitchen Plug presents what is arguably the pièce de résistance of the EP. With electrifying synths dancing gracefully amidst nuanced Acid-bleeps and subtle vocal embellishments, this composition embodies a harmonious convergence of sonic elements. Its allure lies in its ability to enrapture the listener, each layer meticulously woven into a tapestry of sonic bliss. Indeed, “Amor da Fonseca” stands as a testament to Kitchen Plug’s prowess in crafting immersive auditory experiences.
As the EP progresses, “Meleee” emerges, revealing a devilish undercurrent beneath its seemingly tranquil facade. Deep chords resonate against a backdrop of down-tempo rhythms, conjuring visions of childhood reveries punctuated by bursts of irrepressible energy. Drawing influences from Breaks, the bassline pulsates with an infectious fervor, inviting listeners to surrender to its hypnotic cadence. “Meleee” serves as a poignant reminder of Kitchen Plug’s versatility, effortlessly traversing diverse musical landscapes with finesse and aplomb.
Rounding off the EP is Karaba‘s remix of “Melee,” a reinterpretation that accentuates the French cancan aspect embodied by our intrepid trio. Against a backdrop of darkened hues and sultry ambiance, Karaba breathes new life into the composition, infusing it with a sense of gritty sophistication. A crunchy bassline forms the foundation, complemented by layers of intricately woven synth melodies that evoke images of clandestine rendezvous in dimly lit alleyways. The result is a tantalizing blend of nostalgia and innovation, transforming “Melee” into a club-ready anthem that pulses with infectious energy.
In the annals of musical exploration, Kitchen Plug’s sophomore offering on Groove To Grave Records stands as a testament to their boundless creativity and unwavering dedication to sonic innovation. With each track, they invite listeners on a transcendent journey through realms both familiar and uncharted, weaving a tapestry of sound that captivates the imagination and stirs the soul. As the needle lifts and the final echoes fade into the ether, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Kitchen Plug’s indelible imprint on the musical landscape is one that reverberates with timeless allure and enduring fascination.
Words by Holger Breuer
Torture the Artist 