Nightmares On Wax - In A Space Outta Sound (20th Anniversary Edition)
Warp Records has announced a 20th anniversary special edition release of In A Space Outta Sound (2005), the landmark album by Nightmares On Wax. To commemorate, George Evelyn invited Adrian Sherwood to reimagine the warmth of the former sepia-tinted version into a brighter, neon reissue, aptly titled, In A Space Outta Dub. Set to release on April 3rd, this project celebrates George Evelyn’s most acclaimed and familiar album as a cornerstone of electronic and chill-out music.
Originally released as a tribute to the reggae sound system culture of Evelyn’s own upbringing in West Yorkshire, In A Space Outta Sound wove Jamaican influences with soul, jazz and hip hop, and demonstrated the producer’s aptitude for translating samples into catchy melodies. Tracks such as “You Wish” (reissued as “You Bliss”), and “Flip Ya Lid”, became vital soundtracks for cafes, bars and public spaces, permeating the cultural consciousness even if the album title itself hadn’t reached.
The new 8-track companion, In A Space Outta Dub, particularly sees Sherwood’s gift for reinterpretation by stripping back original rhythms and layering his signature FX manipulated style. In places, fresh overdubs are contributed by Cyrus Richard and Doug Wimbish extending the album’s bass foundations into the territory of dub.
The anniversary edition will be available in analogue form, as a 3LP vinyl collection with the original double vinyl album and a bonus disc containing the fresh reinterpretations. Designed by long term collaborator Ruff Mercy, the package includes revitalised artwork with glow in the dark details and a cut out speaker box design, whilst the standalone project will be released separately on LP, CD, and digital streaming services.
The milestone also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the seminal trip hop album, Smokers Delight, which Nightmares on Wax will celebrate with a sold out performance at the Royal Albert Hall on the 12th March, featuring a complete live band, string quartet, choir and guest collaborators.
As Warp Records’s longest serving artist, Evelyn’s thoughtful catalogue connects electronic production with soulful, bass driven music and this reissue highlights the timeless appeal of one his most popular works.
Pre-Order here.
Words: Sakithya Sothinathan
