released: june 24th, 2026

genre: electronic / soul

from: kent / london, uk

label: strut records

a few thoughts: somehow, i didn’t cover the original clay album (which came out mid last year), but i’m glad the bonus version came out so i can sing its praises. matthew herbert is a prolific electronic producer from kent, who has released some genre-defining albums over the years. momoko gill is a talented multi-instrumentalist and vocalist from london who released a stellar debut album this year. the two came together last year to release clay, a phenomenal project that combines momoko’s soothing voice with matthew herbert’s dense and lively production. “calm water” is a tender and emotive way to open the album. the drumming and percussive moments throughout the album are just incredible, as the album shifts into more dynamic territory, with groovy and passionate moments on tracks like “need to run” and “more and more”. the incredible “mowing” features thick, emphatic basslines and and a rumbling beat, as momoko’s smooth vocals give this track an alluring quality to it. the gentle and piano-led “heart” is an emotive and stunning moment on the album, while the upbeat instrumental and colourful piano melodies on “animals” make it a highlight on the album. “fallen again” is an emphatic moment on the album, with dynamic drumming and percussion that is just incredible from start to finish. there is an infectious groove and energy to their music that feels so raw and beautiful. the dance-inducing “babystar” is another phenomenal moment, with swirling synths melodies and rhythms thatare infectious, while momoko’s soothing vocals complement the gentle and ethereal quality of the music. “show me” similarly has a rhythmic, groovy beat that is geared for the dancefloor, while the intricate drumming of “someone like you” makes it a funky and energetic moment on the album. the angelic and moody quality of “circle shore” makes it a reflective and poignant closer to the album, especially with the drum-led composition.

and now for the bonus stuff. “babystar (herbert’s anything dub)” is a dynamic, dub-infused cut, while momoko gill’s remix of “babystar” is an eclectic, almost sinister rework, with striking synth melodies and riveting drumming. kid fonque’s remix of “babystar” is a proper house and broken-beat tune, with incredibly dynamic grooves and punchy drumming. thabo tonick’s remix of “show me” is a punchy, broken-beat track, with subtle piano and synth melodies that add to the dynamic energy of the track. finally, k-lone’s remix of “need to run” is phenomenal, with and infectious dance-led composition that is infectious from start to finish. these bonus cuts add new life to the already lively album, but with a riveting and infectious energy that adds depth and groovy, broken-beat rhythms that are just incredible from start to finish.

the album: