Salt’s Franck White EP

Release number 14 on the fantastic Slow Town label is Salt’s Franck White EP, possibly named after an obscure Danish Blues musician but more likely after a notorious NY drug kingpin (although I do love the idea of the former being true). The brainchild of Greek artist Thomas Stratakis, Salt’s sound is vintage in style and arrangement, laid back in nature, calling to mind the old-school without overtly copying it.

“Franck White” opens with lively, swung drum patterns and eerie bell sounds, developing into a filtered, chord-laden groove which is sleazy in the best possible way. The runaway highlight of the record (at least for me) is “Sedould,” which is properly moody and packed with attitude, from the diva-ish vocal sample to the rock-solid drums and tense arrangement. Classic.

On the flip side, Spanish label founder Rhythm & Soul comes to grips with “Franck White,” laying down snappy drums and working that smooth chord pattern out with high strings and squelchy bass touches. A brilliantly put together, smart and creative three tracker, entirely worthy of its 12″ vinyl release. It’s available in very limited numbers in May, so don’t sleep.