Very Mercenary
The Herbaliser · 1999
69 min · 16 tracks · jazz
A vibrant fusion of jazz, hip-hop beats, and eclectic samples that invites listeners into a cinematic soundscape.
Why this album works
The album received critical acclaim for its innovative production and intricate layering of sounds, further solidifying The Herbaliser's reputation within the acid jazz genre. It featured tracks that gained significant airplay on underground stations and contributed to the growing popularity of instrumental hip-hop during the late '90s.
- Best for
- cinematic soundscape exploration long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys
- Context
- By the time 'Very Mercenary' was released in January 1999, The Herbaliser had established themselves in the UK hip-hop scene with their debut album 'Remedies' in 1995. This album marked their third studio release, showcasing a matured sound and greater experimentation in blending genres, solidifying their role as pioneers in the jazz-hip-hop fusion movement.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Hiromi Uehara· Pat Metheny· Sade Adu
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:03
- 2 Mission Improbable Standout 3:11
- 3 Who's the Realest? Standout 4:46
- 4 When I Shine 3:56
- 5 Goldrush Standout 6:11
- 6 Moon Sequence 6:22
- 7 Mind in the Frame 5:13
- 8 Funny? 0:54
- 9 Shattered Soul 5:17
- 10 Road of Many Signs 4:55
- 11 Wall Crawling Giant Insect Breaks 5:41
- 12 The Sensual Woman 5:02
- 13 Let It Go 5:28
- 14 Jake's Backache 0:23
- 15 The Missing Suitcase 5:35
- 16 Starlight 5:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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