Location:

It would seem that our man Khan has been kicking about for a good few years now. I myself have only recently learnt of his existence through the promotional work of Matador, and the release of this odd compilation-style collection would suggest I'm not alone. Passport is 15 tracks of Khan related material. More specifically, it comprises examples of previous solo work and work composed with other people or as part of a band.

Obviously a man with a passion for music, one suspects Khan revels in the innumerable possibilities of form and content. Not only does he operate a number of labels, each established to specialise in contrasting elements of an ever increasing genre, it would seem the styles of each act he has been associated with vary their indulgences with each composition. The first example at hand, Global Electronic Network, choose to convince of streetsmarts with a vague hint of Phat phunk, though easy on the unk. Then at the next opportunity, the seventh track after, they completely disregard all that, in favour of something altogether more rural subterranean.

It a shame most of this is work that was recorded some time ago. Under normal compilation circumstances I'd take note of acts that make an impression and seek them out. However the fact that these are not current would suggest to me that finding recordings may be harder than usual. Still were it possible, I'd certain seek out recording from Khan & Walker, who utilises a realisation of suggested energy and generate an intoxicating music that revolves in potent clicks vibrants and compatible hums. Nearly all purpose, certainly undemanding and perfectly enjoyable when you require active focus.

Similarly, Khan's work with Kerosene under the name of H.E.A.D., (who, since the last paragraph, I have actually found an album by), is most appealing.

Passport is indeed a curious mix of mediums especially when you take into account items such as the throbbing thrum of Black Sabbath Riot and 4E, described rather appropriately by the artist as mutant hip hop, very much in my opinion of the laid back style, (I'm sure I know a number of people who could identify the style better by pinning it to a coast but I'm personally not all that well versed in the genre). I am surprised to say the album does actually seem to work as an entirety. I believe Khan is wholly capable of and regularly does record work than I would not feel comfortable with but as far as Passport goes the compositions are rather listenable and many likeable.

Andrew Morrison
January 2000

More Information

Matador

record label. Updated constantly with all the latest news regarding signed bands.

Matador Europe

European division of record label. Much the same idea as Matador U.S although the sites do look entirely different. Matador Europe concerns itself primarily with its own european signings as well as tour dates and release schedules which often differ from that of the U.S. market