One thing we already know about Philly-based songwriter/producer/remixer/vocalist/DJ Mr Duplaix is that he has more than just a touch of class and hence a worthy addition to the DJ Kicks series. His name has been spotted next to productions by artists like Erykah Badu, Sylk 130, Jazzanova, Incognito, Jamiroquai and Eric Benet, and his own tunes, such as "Manhood" and "Sensuality", have been underground and critical successes. This mix LP reflects his deep and soulful approach to a range of music styles, touching on everything from the opening tribal flavours to broken beat, deep house, hip-hop and r&b. Featuring uptempo tracks from 4 Hero (the "broken beat" classic "Hold It Down"), Herbert ("You Saw It All"), Waiwan ("Feelin Me Feelin You"), Brazilian moods from Mandrake ("Berimbau") and Mr Hermano "Free As the Morning Sun") and some relaxed downtempo vibes from De La Soul ("Copa") and Bahamadia ("Philadelphia"), Duplaix blissfully eschews beat-matching in favour of a more fluid approach. A versatile and sophisticated compilation--cool but never cold--this will seduce anyone open to tasting funky soul food. --Paul Sullivan