Hieroglyphic Being, a.k.a. Jamal Moss, has never been in the business of ego. The Chicago-based producer, whose rich discography stretches back into the mid-'90s, has always been dedicated to enhancing his craft and connecting with fellow music aficionados.
It seems to follow, then, that his latest LP on Ninja Tune's Technicolour label is geared towards using music to heal. The Disco's of Imhotep is dedicated, as you can no doubt guess, to the revered Egyptian healer and high priest Imhotep. Moss describes the record — in a way that only someone who goes by the name of Hieroglyphic Being can — as a means to "heal the mind and body and enrich the soul by creating hemi-Synced harmonies and music that contains embedded binaural beats."
In this case, Moss's loquacity is matched only by his superior production skills. He was mentored by visionary producers Steve Pointdexter and Adonis, whose teachings inspired him to take charge of his passion for music production. Since then, Jamal has garnered a cult following within the underground techno scene and earned a shining reputation as one of Chicago's most innovative artists.
The Disco's of Imhotep is an album deeply steeped in nuances borrowed from a bevy of genres, including jazz and experimental electronic. The album's pulsing bass, at first raw and seemingly guttural, soon develops into a comforting constant (see "Spiritual Alliances"). Though at times a little too cacophonous, the nine-track LP is an impressive collection that remains true to its Afrofuturistic roots.
Ultimately, Jamal's vision of musical healing won't soothe all listeners, but that is precisely what makes The Disco's of Imhotep great. The veteran DJ is unapologetic and uncompromising in the delivery of his vision. Artistic integrity reigns supreme here, and one can't help but respect that — binaural beats and all.
(Technicolour / Ninja Tune)It seems to follow, then, that his latest LP on Ninja Tune's Technicolour label is geared towards using music to heal. The Disco's of Imhotep is dedicated, as you can no doubt guess, to the revered Egyptian healer and high priest Imhotep. Moss describes the record — in a way that only someone who goes by the name of Hieroglyphic Being can — as a means to "heal the mind and body and enrich the soul by creating hemi-Synced harmonies and music that contains embedded binaural beats."
In this case, Moss's loquacity is matched only by his superior production skills. He was mentored by visionary producers Steve Pointdexter and Adonis, whose teachings inspired him to take charge of his passion for music production. Since then, Jamal has garnered a cult following within the underground techno scene and earned a shining reputation as one of Chicago's most innovative artists.
The Disco's of Imhotep is an album deeply steeped in nuances borrowed from a bevy of genres, including jazz and experimental electronic. The album's pulsing bass, at first raw and seemingly guttural, soon develops into a comforting constant (see "Spiritual Alliances"). Though at times a little too cacophonous, the nine-track LP is an impressive collection that remains true to its Afrofuturistic roots.
Ultimately, Jamal's vision of musical healing won't soothe all listeners, but that is precisely what makes The Disco's of Imhotep great. The veteran DJ is unapologetic and uncompromising in the delivery of his vision. Artistic integrity reigns supreme here, and one can't help but respect that — binaural beats and all.