Review

STUART ZENDER : Happy Feelings feat. Omar & Ana Tijoux

Make no mistake about it Zender’s contribution to Jamiroquai’s early success saw him as a major player. He was an integral part of their meteoric rise and it’s pleasing to know that he continues to make further contributions to the music world with his sterling solo work.

‘Happy Feelings’, interestingly enough, has those rising chord progressions and strings as used by his old band but that’s where the similarities end. Guest vocalist, Omar adds a doubled up falsetto and tenor chant that reigns supreme when the groove hits an electro - Brazilian groove and the sultry rap of Ana Tijoux adds a touch of class to this exceptional slice of sophisticated dance music. Zender lets rip too with some scintillating slap bass adding the icing on the cake. This is a classy affair with production acumen and the instrumental version shines too.
Words Emrys Baird