Artists : Paul Hazendonk
Album Title : Adapt
Label : Manual Music
Cat No : MANCD011
Release: 07.04.14
Genre : Electronica, House, Progressive, Techno
Review by Andy Howarth

Manual Music head honcho Paul Hazendonk makes his entrance on the producer album stage with his 12 track LP “Adapt”, crammed full of original material. A first listen reveals a showcase of the man’s eclectic musical tastes, and the release notes don’t deny that Paul has a wide spectrum when it comes to genre appreciation.

There’s downtempo Bonobo-esque ambience from album opener ‘In The Dark’, featuring the dulcet tones of Danish singer Alice Rose. If you’re a fan of Zero 7’s wistful log-fire chillout sound, this will definitely resonate with you. There’s similarly relaxed vibes to be found on ‘Canyon’ and ‘Falling Sky’ as well, which provide ample respite from the four to the floor action throughout the majority of the album, as well as shining the spotlight on Hazendonk’s aptitude for handling calmer melodies.

Paul’s signature techy sound is prominent throughout, and if you’re already familiar with the Manual Music style, you’ll be right at home here. Tracks like ‘Hazy Echoes’ and ‘Primate’ drip with menace, and offset the more vibrant tracks like ‘You’re My Habit’ (my personal favourite from the LP) nicely.

It’s an accomplished effort from the Dutch maestro, and it’s clear that (along with producer friend Noraj Cue), he’s put a great deal of time and effort into this. All the tracks have obviously been infused with a certain degree of passion and emotion, and that’s very hard to fake. Paul’s no fraud, and this finely crafted new album from him and his collaborating team will appeal across the board, whether it’s 3am heads-down stomping beats you’re after or just some blissed-out leftfield music to relax to…. Hazendonk’s menu will ensure your palette is well catered for.