Allow me a flashback to the early 90s of the last century. Norman Cook (ex-Housemartins, ex-Beats International, later to be known as Fatboy Slim) formed Freak Power with horn player Ashley Slater. They scored a huge pan-European hit with Turn On, Tune In, Cop Out in 1994, and… well, that was about it, basically.

If you thought we’d ever hear from them again, please raise your hand. It appears you were right. Freak Power just released their first new music since 1999. Norman Cook is no longer involved, but Ashley Slater is back on board. Also part of this new line-up, among others: original bass player Dale Davis (Amy Winehouse, Paul Young, Tina Turner), Tony Remy (Herbie Hancock, Annie Lennox) on guitar and Kate Cameron on backing vocals.

Much may have changed in the last 20 years, but the sound of the new Freak Power is remarkably consistent with the ’90s version. Acid house bassline: check. Big synths: check. Soulful sing-along chorus: check. Let’s see if we can eventually tick the check box ‘hit’ as well…

For more great new music follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.