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Liberator 6.1
Stephanie McKay
S/T [EP]
(Astralwerks)

Bronx native and retro-styled chanteuse, Stephanie McKay, has a long track record of working as a vocalist with avant-soul types like Tricky, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Amp Fiddler and Kelis. Now it's her time and like a modern Betty Wright, McKay's searing vocals yearn for a time when music was more honest. This album is obviously inspired by classic soul, reggae and trip-hop influences--all of which can be heard throughout. McKay is a former dancer, who grew up studying at The Alvin Ailey School before finding her way to the United Kingdom. There, McKay worked with Portishead founder Geoff Barrow on her debut, "Stephanie McKay" (Go Beat, 2002). For her upcoming full-length album, McKay includes two tracks from her 2002 debut: the hypnotic "Rising Tide" and reggae-flavored "Take Me Over." DJ Spinna's reworking of the socially conscious "Tell It Like It Is" adds that four on floor bass thump of late night house music parties. While she isn't earth shattering, McKay’s future looks bright. (Jon Jon Scott)