After releasing numerous intriguing advance singles, Dutch producer/DJ duo Yellow Claw deliver an equally third LP with ‘New Blood.’

Dutch producer/DJ duo Yellow Claw (Jim Taihuttu and Nils Rondhuis) are known for “bass-heavy productions and riotous performances.” The duo remained busy in 2018, dropping hot single after single.  Finally, a new album – their third – was announced.  The wait is now over, and New Blood has arrived in all its electronic glory. 

“Lost on You”

“Lost on You” begins New Blood relatively coolly – nothing too crazy or extravagant. Danish R&B/soul group Phlake (Mads Bo and Jonathan Elkær) delivers smooth, sexy, easygoing vocals.  While “Lost on You” isn’t a bombastic, dynamic start, it definitely sets the tone of the album, one that’s exemplifies summer.  Speaking of summer, “Summertime” follows, featuring Dutch DJ and producer San Holo.  San Holo lends his songwriting and production skills, While Nils Rondhuis provides vocals, laden with various effects, amplifying the distinctiveness, slickness, and of course, the vibe.  Although the spirit of summer is apparent, the pleasant “Summertime” is actually moody, set in a minor key.

STORi makes the first of two appearances on “Both of Us.” Her assertive, bright, and cutting vocals contrast the moodier vocals of Rondhuis on “Summertime.” “Both of Us” is also brighter and happier, swapping minor for major.  The chorus, characterized by STORi’s powerful vocals, as well as the instrumental break, represents the best moments.

“Villain”

“Villain” marks the debut of 20-year old, LA-based singer, Valentina (Valentina Cytrynowicz), who gets off to a fast start, with impressive vocal chops.  Yellow Claw does a fine job on the production end of things on “Villain,” giving her an energetic record, featuring a sleek, rhythmic backdrop. The beat and the syncopated synths are surefire fuel for the fire. Throughout the course of “Villain,” Valentina reflects on a past relationship in which she’s the villain, apologizing on the pre-chorus for breaking his heart.  On the simplistic, yet catchy chorus, she confirms this villainous role.

“Crash This Party” keeps the momentum going strong, clocking in at just two-and-a-half minutes. That’s sufficient, particularly in the hands of talented Singaporean pop/R&B singer, Tabitha Nauser.  The chorus soars in particular, as Nauser pushes more, ascending into her upper register.  As she rises, so does the intensity the production, leading to a killer, trunk-rattling, drop/instrumental break.

“Public Enemy”

Taihuttu and Nils work alongside Parisian DJ/producer DJ Snake (William Grigahcine) for the ultimate production showcase, “Public Enemy”. The listener is treated to an array of colorful synths, more often ‘hard’ than not, and some truly sick programming.  The beat is incredibly intense, pummeling and leading into the various, intriguing sections of this mostly instrumental gem.  There are vocal synths that keep things interesting, fitting right into the production without a hitch.  Beyond that, the lyric “Click and clack, let’s go” twice leads into instrumental sections, while the energetic outro, spiced up with an MF-bomb, closes out the ear candy.  The effect is, “DJ Snake and Yellow MF-ing Claw.”

“Fake Chanel”

“Fake hoes, all these fake hoes / See you on Canal Street with the fake flows…”  Banger “Fake Chanel” was one of many singles arriving in advance of New Blood. Assisted A$AP Ferg and rising Baltimore rappers, Creek Boyz, Yellow Claw gives the rappers a fiery backdrop to spit over.  The synths are dark, energetic, and malicious, while the drums are hard-hitting and souped-up.  A$AP Ferg takes the bait, riding the beat like a champ as he raps about material things, sex, drugs, and money.  As for Creek Boyz, they reference drugs, sex, and the police for good measure. Yup, totally a #BANGER.

“Attention” begins much more mysteriously than the biting “Fake Chanel.” Chinese DJ, producer, and singer Chace delivers beautiful vocals, once again, decorated with effects.  Initially, “Attention” has the elements of a ballad, but Yellow Claw change that when the dynamic, sleek break section is unveiled. Dutch hip-hop artist Kalibwoy uniquely contrasts Chace with his distinct tone and accent. Mexican singer Sofia Reyes brings attitude, feistiness, and all things sexy on the infectious, quick, groovy “Bittersweet.” “Bittersweet separates itself merely by being a straight-up pop cut – no drops, breaks, or notable instrumental solo parts.

“To the Max” 

Taihuttu and Nils enlist MC Kekel, Lil Debbie, Bok Nero, and MC Gustta for the scrumptious, turn-up record, “To the Max”. “To the Max” is a rap track infused with a dash of Latin-tinged, Brazilian flavor. The two American rappers – Bok Nero and Lil Debbie – dominate the first part of the record.  Yellow Claw spoils them with an infectious Latin-tinged synth loop that instantly gets stuck in your head.  Both rappers slay, with Lil Debbie serving up a show-stopping hook. As for the second half the song, its dominated by the two Brazilian rappers, who rap in Portuguese.  “To the Max” is among the crème de la crème of New Blood.

“Down on Love” keeps it Dutch, featuring production duo, Moksi, and R&B singer, Yade Lauren. The pleasant electro-R&B cut maintains Yellow Claw’s album-long, career-long eclecticism. English pop singer Kelsey Gill shines on “I’ll Be Fine,” particularly when she showcases her sweet falsetto.

“Waiting”

Initially Yellow Claw slackens the pace on “Waiting”,but keep the energy fully intact.  The production continues to compel, beginning with a stunning, lush accompanying pad. Dutch singer Rochelle sings beautifully and expressively over this backdrop, before the record’s transformation begins on the chorus.  Naturally, she grows more assertive.  The lyrics of the chorus correspond to the looming transformation: “I’m ready for your love / I’ve been waiting and waiting…” The rhythm intensifies, leading into the break section that’s dominated by a biting, hard-nosed synth. STORi makes her second appearance on the closing cut “Another Life,” where fantasy and reality simply don’t line up.  But, “Maybe in another life, another life.

Final Thoughts

Yellow Claw exhibit their incredible versatility throughout New Blood.  Stylistically, there’s a little something for everyone, which keeps this 44-minute affair intriguing.  There are no outright misses, but naturally, some records shine brighter than others. Need a great dance album in your life? New Blood, the product of the awesome work of Jim Taihuttu and Nils Rondhuis, is your album.

Gems: “Both of Us,” “Villain,” “Crash the Party,” “Public Enemy,” “Fake Chanel,” “Bittersweet,” “To the Max” & “Waiting”

Yellow Claw • New Blood • Barong Family • Release: 6.22.18

Photo Credit: Barong Family