Ambush timing changes, syrupy nods to jazz influences and Pedro sounding like a bearded Sade at one point will keep you guessing....
Okay, let’s get the obvious out of the way; this album has been a long time coming, and is therefore aptly titled. I first heard a rough mix back in November last year, hijacked by the rhythm section and locked in their van as they played me tune after tune. My mouth has been watering ever since; that’s a lotta drool. Now, finally, I can tell you this without reservation: it was well worth the wait.
Longtime fans won’t be disappointed, as the dub-reggae infusions continue throughout, especially so on Lesson One, featuring trademark vocal guesting from Tidal Waves’ drummer. Speaking of guests, this disc is full of them, and topping the list for me is the surprising and stunning inclusion of Bongo Maffin’s Thandiswa on Make It Happen, before 340 vocalist Pedro steers it into more familiar territory.
Though perhaps familiar is not the right word; 340 have always been on their own mission, and that much is still clear on Sorry For The Delay. Ambush timing changes, syrupy nods to jazz influences and Pedro sounding like a bearded Sade at one point will keep you guessing, and has had me playing my copy since I blagged it backstage at Koppi. It’s the joint.