Audiopile Review: The relentless and always impressive Greg Foat helps kick off our first ROTW of 2024 with his newest album and final release of 2023, one of a staggering four full lengths issued last year. While his work has always hinted at the library-groove aesthetic, Interstellar Fantasy is the first album to purposefully immerse in the world of imaginary soundtracks. The album was actually commissioned by the long-running German library imprint Sonoton, who are most notable for their string of now collectible releases issued in huge numbers throughout the ‘80s. Foat, who always seems to work well in a pairing, enlists the the drum skills of Ayo Salawu, best known for his laidback grooves in Brownswood Recordings outfit Kokoroko. Foat’s usual battery of Korgs and Rolands are in full slow-mo astral flight across the album, summoning visions of a long-lost soundtrack to an aborted 70s sci-fi TV show. What gives the record a boost of energetic propulsion is the inventive drumming of Salawu, which flits easily between tightly-wound micro-funk breakbeats or dub-inflected padding, always there to nudge Foat a little further toward the starlit beyond. Probably the best of Foat’s 2023 run, and an unmissable release for the his fans!

A concept album of Analogue Electronic Sci Fi Library Grooves for Synthesisers and Percussion. Commissioned by Sonoton and inspired by the 70’s & 80’s Sonoton music Library Catalogue. Featuring Ayo Salawu on Drums (Kokoroko) and Greg Foat with his impressive collection of vintage Synthesisers. File under Library Music