From a dusty reel, a sonic artifact emerges: Jane McNealy’s “Play It,” a vibrant echo of 1989, unearthed by Lo-Flo Records. This song is a time capsule, a glimpse into the creative ferment of a prolific composer’s past.
A vibrant snapshot from “Songs from the Vault: Reel #6—The Breaks,” this track opens the door to a fascinating era in McNealy’s expansive career. “Play It” is a propulsive, instrumental journey, a quasi-hip-hop track powered by a thunderous breakbeat.
McNealy’s mastery of then-cutting-edge synthesizer and sampler technology evokes the spirit of Herbie Hancock’s ’80s explorations, seamlessly blending jazz and funk with the nascent energy of hip-hop.
The track paints vivid scenes: the raw energy of New York street breakdancing, the electric buzz of an art gallery buzzing with Warhol and Basquiat. It’s a testament to McNealy’s forward-thinking approach, a blend of genres that feels both nostalgic and remarkably fresh.
“Play It” is a vibrant, must-hear reminder of a pivotal moment in music history.
Written by Taylor Berry
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