There are albums that you put on and immediately immerse yourself in a positive mood – “Friendly Melodies" (Zulu Vibes) by Zulu Vibes is just one of those. I knew after the first few bars that this album would stay with me for a long time. The French producer, who first caused a stir in 2018 with "Silver Wind", Youthie's debut album, has created something that not only sounds good, but also feels good. The tracks are warm, lively and full of joy - you can feel that someone with a true love for reggae and Dub was at work. The sound of "Friendly Melodies" has a pleasant liveliness and cheerfulness. Perhaps it is the way the arrangements breathe, the way each instrument is given its space, or the fact that the mix simply sounds so organic. Dub not just produced – here it is "played." The album has a groove that is nourished by many small details, details that you only discover after repeated listening. I find myself involuntarily clicking and playing the album in my media library again and again. Perhaps this is also due to the versatility of the 12 tracks. Each of them brings a new facet to the music – sometimes driving and energetic, sometimes relaxed and meditative. Dub-Mixes are finely tuned and provide additional depth without getting lost in effects. Some DubAlbums sound like studio work – well thought out, but also somewhat distant. Friendly Melodies is different. It feels like you're right there, as if the music is being created in a room full of instruments and fresh ideas. Dub Anyone looking for something that sounds grounded yet fresh will definitely find what they're looking for here. An album that not only delivers good vibes, but also continually reveals new nuances—and absolutely lives up to its title.
Zulu Vibes: Friendly Melodies
