With his debut album to come out at some point in 2014, this is the year where Julio Bashmore's already sterling reputation will either be further cemented in the UK dance scene or will come crashing down. (However, from his track record alone, I think the former is more likely.)
With three releases last year and a remix of Justin Timberlake's 'Suit & Tie', he's an artist who keeps himself busy yet wisely chooses to not give too much away before his much anticipated album. One of his most divisive releases 'Duccy' caused much online debate between the usual camps: the first one criticizing his musical progression and wishing for a return to his older material and the second group simply praising him because he's done something different. I have to say I'd find myself on the fence on this one but would lean closer to the former camp. Nonetheless, I'm not saying I don't favour change, I just didn't particularly enjoy the song.
Before I start a pointlessly long rant, I'm gonna keep it simple. I haven't been that impressed with his efforts in 2013 and after hearing he had an album coming out, I was a bit skeptical. Like any of his fans, I'm a big supporter of his older material. From 'Battle For Middle You', to 'Footsteppin'' to the massive tune that is 'Au Seve'. If I had to choose my favourite track however, it would have to be 'The Horn That Time Forgot'. And of course, if I had a say in his musical direction (which I don't), it'd be awesome if he had a few songs along the lines of this incredible tune.
Despite all of this, my optimism has resurfaced lately with the release of 'Peppermint' in late 2013. Taken directly from his so-far unnamed album, it's a track that screams 90's house, with lush productions, bouncy rhythms and guest vocals from fellow PMR label mate Jessie Ware, it's definitely a good sign for what's to come. It also seems as though in one song, he's attained a sound that Disclosure have taken years to perfect, once again showcasing Bashmore's extraordinary talent and adaptability.
Ultimately, we need to wait for any future releases to hopefully get a better insight into the album but as I said with 'Peppermint', it has given much hope and is a perfect compromise between the expectations of his die-hard fans and the inevitability of creating a more commercialized sound to rival Disclosure.
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