Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band vastly improve Drake’s much-parodied 2016 mega-hit Hotline Bling on their new 45 by replacing a) Drake’s original topline with melodic 55 gallon drums and b) the original’s programmed drums with something a whole lot more organic. Yep, that’s right Drake, not just your girl but your whole song getting nasty for someone else. And although long famous for their steel-drum covers, Bacao don’t just rework big hip-hop stuff; they’re also known for taking on more leftfield material which is arguably where they really merk it on this 45 with their version of – er – Murkit Gem by labelmates El Michels Affair. Another winner from Bacao! From what the monkey can see, take the official release date with a pinch of salt if you want this one – the 45 is available right now on Juno and even on the Big Crown Records store. Go figure!
(Out 23 May on Big Crown)