Album Review: Don't Be Scared by DJ Vadim

Whether working on his own or as the DJ for renowned reggae/soul outfit Fat Freddy's Drop, DJ Vadim has established a reputation for eclecticism and forward thinking, and this album will strengthen that reputation. Its fundamental tracks are based on jam sessions with artists like Fat Freddy's Drop, Trinity Roots, fLako, and Michael Kiwanuka, and the resulting material was further refined during multiple globetrotting excursions. You'll hear hints and shadings of his travels throughout these tracks: the West Midlands grime of "This DJ" (featuring the excellent MC JMan); the slow and bandy-legged groove undergirding scratchy Southeast Asian vocal samples on "Hide n' Seek" and "Bally Umar," and the reggae-inflected "Set Them Free.

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London-/Berlin-/NYC-based producer, DJ and performer DJ Vadim returns with what seems like his millionth record, Don't Be Scared, on BBE Recordings. Vadim's internationalism is the main attraction on Don't Be Scared. Bollywood vocal phrases are screwed deftly on the track "Bally Umar" and UK Dancehall party starter Serocee gives a distinctly Jah flavour to "Van Vaow," all underpinned by Vadim's signature broken beats and regular con-conspirator Yarah Bravo, as well as a wealth of new British vocalists.

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