I have always been a huge fan of Dam Swindles work, formely known as Detroit Swindle. Their light hearted house tracks have always been big hitters for me. In the past they have shown a rather unique ability to consistently put out quality records frequently over the last few years. This most recent effort from the Amsterdam pairing is, I’m delighted to say another great release on Freerange Records.

The opener on this record, the title track, “Figure of Speech” is a house groover all the way. In classic Dam Swindle fashion soft pans and light hearted keyboard notes are met by something we are not used to hearing from the duo. This one has a certain African flare to it, a theme which goes on to feature throughout the record. The drums are remanicent of a tribal African soundtrack. Which shows the pair leaving their comfort zone and trying new things.

Next up is “Victoria’s Secret”. This one has a deeper feel to it. The bass is lower down but still retains its typical Detroit Swindle flair. There are elements of one of their earliest efforts, “Jick Rames” coming through on this one. Like almost all of the tracks provided by these two it makes you want to dance with a giant smile on your face all night.

Over on the flip side is “Live at the cosmic carnival”. The final track revisits the African theme that I first encountered on the opening track. This time it’s a lot stronger. Samples of hands hitting drums provided the foundation for the track to build onwards and upwards. This one for me is the best track on the record, I just hope it won’t join the legions of B side tracks that get left by the wayside. This record is out in all good record stores now.

Track list

A1. Figure of speech

A2. Victoria’s secret

B1. Live at the cosmic carnival