Chicago-raised House don DJ Sneak lands on Leeds’ famed label Hard Times Records for the four-track ‘Consequential EP’
Carlos Sosa is a man of integrity. Better known as DJ Sneak, Sosa stood toe to toe with many in the scene including the likes of Swedish House Mafia. Whether you agreed with some of Sosa’s stances, there is no denying the man’s footing and place in the global House community, still, after over three decades in the game.
Known as being part of the second wave of Chicago House producers alongside Paul Johnson, Derrick Carter and Cajmere, Sneak’s formula for House music has been exemplary. Jackin’ Disco with tough, muddy beats laced with filtered loops. I think that’s a fair explanation of his sound that he’s hones since early releases like ‘Keep On Groovin’, ‘Funky Enuff’ and every track from the amazing ‘Polyester’ EP.
This new release on Hard Times Records see’s the label/party come full circle. Back in the day Sneak was a regular at the then Leeds-based party that was founded by Steve Raine, Donna Skinner and Pete Jenkinson. Originally based in Huddersfield, Hard Time definitely found its home in Leeds. Now in 2023 the Hard Times label has found it’s voice again with recent releases from the likes of Steve ‘Silk’ Hurley, Eddie Leader and now it’s time for Sneak to take control.
‘You’re Mine’ opens the EP with fidgety drum grooves, chopped up vocals, manipulated synth hooks and an underlying Disco presence. ‘This One’ is a classic Chicago groover with what sounds like a Moodyman speech snippet. This is Sneak at his best, loopy disco grooves with a thick, bulbous feel. ‘Body Slangin’ is a more deep, tech vibe. Jagged drums, scraped with mechanical clangs and subdued lead gnarls all come together to create this industrial jackin’ groove. Rounding off the EP is ‘Deep Undercover’. More loopy, Disco stylings with this one, keep an ear our for the washes. Warm synth pads act as an antipode for the more filthy, funkier underlying grooves.
Good to have Sneak back on the office stereo, forever one of our champions! Big up the Sosa!
The ”Consequential EP’ lands on Hard Times Records from November 24th , 2023. Pre order here.
