London-based musician and DJ Jonny Drop is probably most well-known as being part of The Expansions, a jazz-funk quartet from South London. As part of that group he has been able to gain the respect from radio presenters such as Huey Morgan and Lauren Laverne as well as the general music community not only in London but on a global scale as well.

His new album The Only Sound is released on Albert’s Favourites, one of my favourite London-based labels, and features a hip-hop oriented sound, something Jonny has explored for years now. The drumming on this album is a clear highlight, as they sound menacing in energy and incredibly heavy in tone as well. The live instrumentation throughout makes this a lively and engaging listen, with no track losing any of my attention whatsoever.

Features include Lucid Paradise, Sarah Williams White, Grace Walker, Shea Soul and Tamar Osborn, who bring their own spiritual and enlightening energy to the table, with some tremendous vocal performances that really shine through on the album. Tracks like “Last Winter” have a Nightmare on Wax type vibe to it, an old school hip-hop instrumental feel that just captivates you from the moment it starts. “All This Trouble” features funky guitar leads, a vocal soul sample that just fits in beautifully with the vibe and charisma of the track. “Flash Light” with Grace Walker features incredible guitar rhythms that just add so much depth and overall groove to the track. It is almost meditative, that’s how poignant it is. I can talk about how great this album is all day, but in all truth what everyone needs to do is to listen to it and transport yourself in Jonny Drop’s colourful world.

Listen to The Only Sound below via Bandcamp, and make sure you absolutely support this album if you can!