Imitation Electric Piano

Simon Johns, bassist for Stereolab, presents an instrumental side project that takes the Tortoise route to lounge-y groove. The five tracks on this EP build on groovy funk bass riffs and steady high hats as trumpets, vibes and organic electronic elements swing through the speakers. The down-tempo jazz feel makes many of the songs a perfect starting point for the next Portishead album. Johns' work with John McEntire of Tortoise on the last Stereolab album must also have rubbed off, as these percussion-driven numbers even bring to mind the sweet serenade of McEntire's other band project, the Sea and Cake.