Written by Tom Bedding
When seeing Nile Rodgers was working with the Reading born artist, I knew I would always give this record a shot and see why such a collaboration has occurred. Samuel George Lewis has indeed shown such sublime talent with his songwriting and producing, with songs like 'Warm' and featuring on Ray BLK's single, 'Chill Out'. Regrettably, Im not swept away as much compared to similar artists from his generation?
I could be being harsh here but I finished listening to 'time' knowing there is more to come from this talented musician.
The title track starts the LP, sounding a lot like Rodgers work with its production. Its ra eally enjoyable start and is celebration of house music, however it shows off straight away the aspect of the record that holds everything back, it's too rigid. Then on 'Feed The Fire', the funk of the Neptunes is blissful here but I feel like I have to dance to this without moving my arms, the beat just sticks too tight and lacks any freedom.
'Back To Earth' is one of the worst at feeling so strict to its principles, from the claps to the recurring delivery of the name of the song. 'One More' offers a great blend of house music and the groove of Nile Rodgers though, it lets go with the guitar work that will bring a smile , to anyones face.
Frances's feature on 'Heartbreak On The Dancefloor' is wonderful, signing over some beautiful 80's synths and its great to hear how great the music on this LP can be. There are plenty of moments like this, indicating how talented SG Lewis is! I hope he knows that his music does not to be wrapped so tightly with its delivery, just let it flow and not stress too much about the delivery.
After an awkward interlude, we have the great single of 'Chemicals'. Okay yes it does take the bass line from 'Get Lucky' but it is a beautiful moment that takes away us into another realm. Next we have, 'Impact', which just sounds like a left over from an unused Disclosure project.
The album finishes with 'All We have', again too strict with its execution, and the dramatic 'Fall'. SG Lewis is talented at what he does, with this album including a handful of moments that showcases that. However the artist needs to let his creativity flow and not get too worried about overcooking his work.