This self-titled EP is a teaser for
Stephanie McKay's second full-length, following 2003's McKay -- an album that wasn't released in the States despite being terrific and featuring dynamic production from
Portishead's
Geoff Barrow (who hides behind the alias of
Fuzzface). Since this disc is
McKay's first U.S. release, Astralwerks takes the opportunity to pluck a couple choice tracks from that first album.
Barrow's work here runs even closer to the approach of
DJ Premier and
Pete Rock, especially on the
Henry Mancini-sampling "Rising Tide";
McKay showcases her ability to belt while soothing the ears at the same time. Lead track "Tell It Like It Is" is socially conscious without being overbearing, and though she's not saying anything profound, her supple voice -- as heard with
Brooklyn Funk Essentials and on releases by
Tricky and
Soulive -- is too much of a delightful force to deny. ~ Andy Kellman