The Uprise is the latest jam from Patrice Scott’s Sistrum and I think it’s one of the best. Patrice Scott attains a total unity of melody, rhythm and groove and it never lets up. On the title track Scott hits a tone of defiance and exhaustion that possibly captures the mood of the American street better than any track released in 2020. This is a key track for this moment, and it memorializes it without saying a single word.

And like we say, there’s no let up. “Ghetto Love” is a cut for deep dancefloors and big over-the-ear headphones. As he has many times before, Scott shows himself a master of understatement, stripping things down to the most essential components and composing music that moves while barely moving at all. “That Vibe” is a track of pure life, raised up by rolling brassy hats and a minimal, compact but powerful melody. This is a record of the year, hands down, in slim company with the best of ’em.

Patrice Scott: The Uprise (Sistrum / September 2020 / 12″ Vinyl)
1. Patrice Scott: The Uprise (03:59)
2. Patrice Scott: Ghetto Love (07:54)
3. Patrice Scott: That Vibe (06:59)

 


 

The Art of Nostalgia: Originally published in 5 Mag issue 184 featuring The Reflex, Amy Douglas, James Duncan, Shamrock Guitor and more. Support 5 Mag by becoming a member for just $1 per issue.