As promised earlier this afternoon, I'm going to commence highlighting the various acts and personalities gracing Australian soil this upcoming March for the ultra-fantastic Future Music Festival. So I figured, why not now? Yo, check it out -- here's fucking Leftfield!
Formed back in 1990 by London mates Paul Daley and Neil Barnes, Leftfield were one of the stalwarts of British electronic music and progressive house that began to earnestly sweep the planet during the early-to-mid-'90s. Hell, I remember when their 1995 debut album Leftism came out. Holy shit, it was awesome. Featuring an eclectic lineup of guest vocalists (including PiL's own John Lydon!), it was a mighty force to be reckoned with; it just didn't stop banging! Then, in 1999 they released their second, and last, album, Rhythm and Stealth. The vibe this time out was a little darker and moodier than its predecessor. Layered with deeper basslines and exhibiting a certain menace reminiscent of trip-hop electronica stalwarts Massive Attack (who in 1998 had released the amazing Mezzanine), RaS had vocal contributors (such as the brilliant Afrika Bambaata and Roots Manuva) who brought a distinctly urban feel to the proceedings.
Now, Leftfield is back and touring. But Barnes is going it alone this time out, seeing as Daley has decided to focus on his DJing and solo record. And they'll be at this year's Future Music Festival -- so the resident doctor at Second Drawer Up HQ has officially prescribed your presence. Party on, and enjoy!
Here, from 1999's Rhythm and Stealth, is their breathtaking track "Dusted", featuring the vocal talents of the one and only Roots Manuva.
