There's certainly a lot on the line when one decides to rework a voice like Lianne La Havas', but when acts like Maribou State decide to step in, there's no question the singer's vocals will be dealt with in a responsible way. The original picked out by the Hertfordshire duo here is the blues-infused number, "What You Don't Do", and we hear it receiving a classic, bass-enriched refurbishing courtesy of the act. The evolving, resonant synth work is what sets the tone on this revamp, and, as pulsating bass notes build alongside ever-panning hats, a continually elevating sonic setting is brought. Lianne La Havas' vocal cuts are what direct the inclusions throughout, however, and Maribou portrays their ability to keep undertones of the original eminent while simultaneously employing highly alluring ones of their own. The overall result is one that gives further reason to revisit La Havas' latest body of work, and it also thoroughly satisfies electronic fans with the fresh electronic take. Lianne La Havas' latest album, Blood, is available on iTunes now, and Maribou State's must-hear Portraits is as well.
Lianne La Havas