DJ Phantom Delivers Soulful Take On SHÆLIN’s “Ain’t No Matter”

Neo-soul crew SHÆLIN have shown immense authenticity and artistic flair since their inception in 2017. Weaving rich sonic tapestries through the narrative of diversity and inclusion, the collective represents a colourful blend of musical references, from RnB and soul to the traditional sensibilities of jazz and gospel. Releasing their highly anticipated “Ana Hata” EP in November of last year, the French-speaking outfit proposed the message of unconditional faith and humanity; a mantra that has no doubt shaped their very output and overall profile. Extending the project’s scope to new audiences outside of their immediate realm, SHÆLIN have cherry-picked a handful of the most unique talents in the industry to reimagine some of the EP’s key compositions. Delivering the first in a series of upcoming remixes under the “Ana Hata Extended” compilation, DJ Phantom gives us his soulful take on “Ain’t No Matter” – out now across all streaming platforms.

Enjoying its official release back in July 2020 alongside a video accompaniment, SHÆLIN’s “Ain’t No Matter” was re-introduced to their discography last year as part of the stunning opus, “Ana Hata”. It’s lyrics were thought-provoking and essential; spreading the seed of positivity and hope, as well as serving as a powerfully supportive response to the fast-growing Black Lives Matter Movement.

DJ Phantom’s respectful edit puts the group’s vocal performance front and centre, championing their soulful harmonies and pensive lyricism. Opting to enhance the original’s use of traditional instrumentation, Phantom employs a recurring piano riff and string injections to bring a new perspective to the melody. A master of his craft and with the 90s hip-hop sound intrinsic to his repertoire, the turntablist nods to his roots with subtle, well-positioned scratches. Fostering the technique in a way that revolutionised the art form, the added texture goes far beyond that of a rhythmic or melodic accompaniment; honouring the vinyl as its own instrument. Although the craft has almost entirely disappeared from today’s hip-hop landscape, DJ Phantom proves that these foundational methods are not only still relevant, but essential in crediting the genre’s bedrock. Alongside SHÆLIN’S silky smooth choral moments and solo rap performances, the scratch presents as a sound that is, paradoxically, both nostalgic and yet progressive in this contemporary setting.

SHÆLIN are a neo-soul crew weaving unique sonic masterpieces from an array of musical references. The group are inspired by the richness of African-American music (RnB, soul, hip hop, jazz, gospel) but also by musical horizons ranging to the traditional sensibilities of Reunion Music and Steve Reich. SHÆLIN represents the mixing of genres and traditions; offering a contemporary and soulful sound which breathes the joy of life and generosity. For the outfits’ six members, their diversity is a richness and their cross-pollination of culture and lifestyle, a celebration of love. Through music, words and dance, SHÆLIN carry a message of hope and unconditional faith; a humanistic and spiritual message that invites their listeners to (re)connect to our great world, to other beings, and to themselves.

Email