P-1 - Step

P-1’s debut album Step is a breath of fresh air in today’s music world. Combining electronic beats with Jazz, Reggae and Hip-Hop influences has been done before, but rarely as well as this.

The groups lead vocalist, B.A Arentsen, has a sound that is somewhat similar to that of Olive’s Ruth-Ann: a compliment, indeed. Her vocals are the highlight of most tracks, but that doesn’t mean that the programming and instrumentation takes a back seat. One of the best parts about P-1 is their inclusion of trumpet, sax and even cello in their arrangements to great success.

While some web sites list the genre of this album as being “Electronica/Dance,” I tend to disagree with this classification. Most of the tunes are in the 100-110 beats per minute range, making it less of a dance album and more genre-defying than anything else.

However, don’t write off the dance music influence of P-1. While the original tracks on the album are not dance music in the classic sense, putting the CD into your computer unlocks a web site with remixes of at least five of the tracks from the CD. The standout of this added feature is Giuseppe D’s remix of One Try. Giuseppe takes the song into the clubs with a fierce remix that highlights B.A.’s vocals and has a synth line that won’t quit. This group obviously cares about dance music and recognizes the potential of the original tracks being turned into high quality club tracks.

Personal favorites on the CD include the Salsa/Merengue tinged Vespa with its cool trumpet riffs and Soul a chill track with great lyrics and a catchy chorus that I found myself singing along to the first time I heard it. Also notable is the funky hit P-1 which features male vocals chanting “Don’t wait til tomorrow, baby right now, is the time.” I agree: don’t wait until tomorrow. Go buy this CD right now.