Van Coke Kartel – Wie’s Bang 4/5

I assume if you’re reading this, you’ve read my article on VCK, and expect only praise. In 2009, I said the second, and unsuccessful, album was the best release that year. Fortunately, I haven’t been wrong much since, thanks to experience. Wie’s Bang comes in two phases of enjoyment: the first is an f-you rock noise experience. The second comes when you’ve managed to resist the first, and listen to the lyrics. But unlike any VCK or Fokof album, it’s got balance. Not too much of anything, only when it needs to. Overall, the sound comes across as a whole. Production is smooth, levels are inverted between vocals and guitar, especially when Jedd let’s slip a bit of sweep picking – producer Theo Crous’ metal guitar roots have clearly come in handy. Several guitars were used, and we can safely assume Jedd probably rummaged through Theo’s collection. Don’t think it’s a guitar album though. Jason has ‘flavourised’ the token ka-doef beat, and through various accents added soul – during Jack Parow’s collaborative duo, he exchanges 4-to-the-floor for an irregular trip-hop beat, suggestive of Wu-Tang Clan but still very much VCK. Any criticism? Yes, Wynand’s chewy bass twang is missing. The album is currently being mastered in UK, the launch date remains uncertain, because quality takes time. The boys aren’t messing around – so be patient.