Discogs pages don’t lie, can’t embellish or mislead. They lay bare an artist’s production and output. Aliases, labels and birth names come together to lend focus on a community that so often seems disguised. Nicola Loporchio’s aka “Nico Lahs” artist page is a proper curriculum vitae. A starting point if you are unfamiliar with his name or Cosmic Garden or his releases on Hot Haus or Royal Oak.
After having been relatively quiet over the last 5 years (aside from a couple remixes), this Bari born and based drummer / musician Nicola Loporchio, better known as Nico Lahs, is back with nothing less than a statement to Detroit and Chicago roots.
A 2xLP, “Freedom” rightfully received the full treatment from Detroit founded label Adeen Records, which put together remixes from Chez Damier, Camille Migas and Jef K. The whole trip is low swung, vibey and possesses a level of authenticity not often achieved outside the States.
The title track opens side A with rumbling MPC samples that brings any fan of Dilla forward in their seat. It’s immediately bigger than just house…, it’s jazz and hip-hop and house. It’s funk, it’s everything, it’s Freedom. A statement of intent that crystalizes Nicola’s admiration for the original innovators of the midwest.
“A Beautiful Thing” or “Deep Da Futa” could bath one of those glorious Movement Detroit BBQs but save “Never Come” for a lazy, rainy morning and serve with hot tea. “Nu Frontiers” is for the OGs after the sun fades and when the lights come out.
Highly recommended, pre-order now.
