979 Different by C4 & Dr Jekyl: A Drum 'n' Bass Time Capsule from 2004
Alright, let’s talk about 979 Different, the kinda under-the-radar gem dropped by C4 & Dr Jekyl back in '04. This one flew under most radars, but if you’re into that gritty UK drum 'n' bass vibe, it’s worth dusting off your old CD player—or whatever streaming service has it buried deep in their archives.
First off, this album isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but man, does it spin that sucker fast. It’s pure electronic energy, with beats so sharp they could cut glass and basslines thick enough to knock over a speaker or two. The whole thing feels like a late-night drive through London streets, windows down, rain drizzling, and streetlights flickering like strobes. Yeah, it’s moody, raw, and unapologetically British.
Now, onto the tracks. You’ve got “979,” which hits hard right outta the gate. It starts with these eerie synths that feel like someone whispering secrets in your ear, then BAM—boom-bap drums crash in like an unexpected house party. There’s something hypnotic about how the rhythm loops around itself, pulling you deeper into its vortex. I remember listening to this track on repeat during a road trip once, and suddenly every stoplight felt cinematic. Like, who knew waiting for green lights could feel so epic?
Then there’s “Different.” Oh, man. This one sneaks up on ya. At first, it sounds all chill, almost loungy, but don’t get too comfy. About halfway through, the beat switches gears faster than a London cabbie dodging traffic. Suddenly, you’re not just nodding along anymore; you’re fully immersed, head bobbing uncontrollably, maybe even muttering random thoughts aloud because yeah, it does THAT to you. What sticks with me is how effortlessly it blends chaos and calm. One minute you’re floating, the next you’re sprinting—musical whiplash at its finest.
Planet Recordings really let C4 & Dr Jekyl do their thing here, no frills attached. And honestly? That’s what makes 979 Different stand out. No flashy gimmicks, no desperate attempts to chase trends—it’s just solid, soulful drum 'n' bass straight from the heart of the UK underground scene.
So, yeah, give this album a spin if you’re craving something real. Not perfect, not polished, but packed with personality. Honestly, after writing this review, I kinda wanna go listen to it again. Weird flex, but hey, good music has a way of doing that to ya.
