Album Review: Revolution by Jack Berry
Released in 1996 on Ouch! Records, Revolution is a hidden gem in the UK electronic scene that deserves more than a passing glance. This isn’t your typical House or Hard House album—it’s raw, punchy, and dripping with personality. And let’s not forget, it’s all Jack Berry. The guy wrote, produced, and engineered the whole thing. Talk about wearing multiple hats (or maybe just one really big hat?). It’s clear he had a vision, and for the most part, he nails it.
The album kicks off with two standout tracks: “Revolution (Piano Mix)” and “Revolution (Club Mix).” Both versions are built around the same core idea but take you to completely different places. The Piano Mix is where I found myself hitting repeat—a proper vibe setter. The rolling piano chords feel alive, almost like they’re breathing alongside the beat. You can tell Berry poured some soul into this one. It’s catchy without being cheesy, something that’s rare in ’90s House music. If you’ve ever been to a dingy club with fog machines cranked up to eleven, this track feels like home.
On the flip side, the Club Mix goes harder, as you’d expect. It strips back some of the melodic elements and leans into pounding basslines and sharp hi-hats. It’s relentless in the best way possible—like a caffeinated DJ who refuses to let you sit down. There’s an urgency here that sticks with you long after the track ends. It’s not perfect—some transitions feel a bit rough—but honestly, that imperfection adds character. It’s messy in a way that feels human, which is refreshing for an era when studio polish often overshadowed creativity.
What makes Revolution memorable isn’t just its sound—it’s the fact that it’s so unapologetically DIY. Berry didn’t have a team of producers or fancy gear; he did everything himself. That kind of grit shines through every beat and synth stab. Sure, it might not be everyone’s cuppa tea, but if you’re into House music with a bit of edge, this album will hit the spot.
Looking back at Revolution, it’s wild to think how ahead of its time it was. In today’s world of algorithm-driven playlists, albums like this remind us why we fell in love with music in the first place—it’s personal, flawed, and full of heart. Oh, and fun fact? Listening to this while coding made me accidentally delete half my work. True story. So maybe don’t do that. But seriously, give Revolution a listen—you won’t regret it.
