Released on 21/02/2000
Label: V2

Getting absolutely thrashed by Radio One's more discerning DJs, 'Willow' is a unique creation in the contemporary pop climate. It's an out and out hip-hop track in every respect and, unusually, that's why its appeal is potentially massive.

If you've ever tried to force a non-believer to comprehend the joys of hip-hop music and found them resistant because of the machismo or the nihilism, the street slang or sexism, then this is the perfect gentle introduction. It's not lightweight, it's not retro trip-hop, in fact, 'Willow' owes more to New York's flourishing spoken-word scene. Apparently the work of a 5' 10" poet called 'Nine', the narcotic repetition of this track is irresistible.

    by James Poletti