Jim Dunloop - Opus 76 BPM: A soulful, magnetic performance

This classically trained pianist’s head was turned a long time ago by hip-hop and jazz.

After spells with various beats and hip-hop crews in the 1990s and collaborations with the likes of turntablist Marc Hype, the Berlin-based Dunloop has finally got around to a debut album that lets him put all that learning on the plate.

Each track sticks to the 76 beats-per-minute tempo of the title, yet Dunloop’s musical know-how and production suss allow him to spin quite a tale within that rigid framework.

There are plenty of guests to add flavours to the stew. vocalist Devon Parker is particularly worthy of attention on Leave It All Behind and My Own Supply, while S Squair Blaq's rhymes on Leap Year pack a decent punch.

Throughout, Dunloop’s Dilla-esque sense of pace and place makes for a soulful, magnetic performance.

[ soundcloud.com/jimdunloop ]