The word ‘monster’ was invented for 45s like this. So was the phrase ‘future classic.’ I’ve been jonesing for The Galata Extraction since the first time I caught a clip of a recording session months ago on the ‘Gram. It’s the lead single off the forthcoming The Library Archive Vol. 4 by ATA Records outfit The Library Archive who (if you aren’t already familiar with them) you’ll be unsurprised to discover are purveyors of the finest 60s/70s-style ‘library music.’ On this one it’s all about the Mediterranean psych-funk sound powered by a heavy and irresistible drum break, over which Eastern-style fuzz guitar tangles with Farfisa like opposing agents in the alleyways and on the rooftops of Cold War-era Istanbul. The absolute icing on the cake though is the simple dumbek percussion which gives this a classic Incredible-Bongo-Band-meets-spy-funk vibe leaving an indelible impression you might not expect from something that weighs in at a mere two minutes, eleven seconds. And on a 7″, that’s a lot of spare space. So what else is included, you might wonder. Well, the A-side also features The Galata Extraction (Drums and Percussion mix) which is pretty self-explanatory while side B finds the ‘Archive deliver an alternate mix of another of the forthcoming LP tracks – the stylistically similar, if more relaxed The Two Akiras in its ‘synth mix, no melody’ incarnation along with The Galata Extraction (Breakbeat remix). This latter prioritises extended drums and percussion and ups the bass while reducing the guitar role somewhat for a highly effective alternative to the original. Even more staggering, these additional three tracks are only available on the wax. While 500 copies isn’t the tiniest of ltd. runs these days, don’t expect any copies of this to hang around for any length of time at all. The monkey’s already got a promo copy and will definitely be buying a spare. The Library Archive Vol. 4 LP follows later in the autumn.
(Pre-order now/ Vinyl ships on or around 1 October on ATA Records)
