Following previous ventures with The Funk League and production credits for Large Professor, Diamond D or Gift of Gab, french producer Hugo LX returns with a new collective project under his KenJaNai’ alias.
The debut album Faceless Heroes (coming out in October 2014) showcases a radical shift for the young beatsmith, as the production style leans towards futuristic beats, 80’s synths and also some downtempo – sometimes ambiant – jams influenced by Japanese electronic and new funk legacy.
KenJaNai is not only a producer effort, but a close collaboration with fellow musicians and top shelf vocal artist: the mighty Elzhi (from Detroit very own Slum Village) and indy star Oddisee supply classic verses, while Canadian songstress Amalia (known for her tremendous work with Opolopo) brings her Nu-Funk trademark and soulful vibe in the mix, alongside Kandisky Effect’ bassist Gael Petrina and turntablist DJ Suspect.
Cruising through atmospheric layers and hard hitting drum patches, Faceless Heroes expresses nowadays producers’ ability to navigate from a place to another on the musical spectrum, in order to keep the music vibrant.
First 2 tracks single coming out in a limited 300 copies 7inch & Digital, and including an exclusive remix of “Playin’ (Feat. Amalia)”.
KENJANAI – PLAYIN’ / VAPORS (Favorite Recordings / September 8th 2014 / 7inch & Digital)
BUY IT HERE
KENJANAI – FACELESS HEROES (Favorite Recordings / October 14th 2014 / vinyl LP & Digital)