Hamish Balfour – Running Colours LP

Hamish Balfour - Running Colours (2022)

Hamish Balfour is a British keyboardist, composer, and producer who has quietly established himself as a versatile and skilled musician within the UK’s jazz, funk, and electronic music scenes. Known for his collaborations with a wide range of artists and his ability to seamlessly move between genres, Balfour’s work often reflects a deep understanding of groove, melody, and harmony. His background includes stints in various jazz ensembles, work with electronic producers, and contributions to several high-profile projects, making him a respected name among musicians and listeners alike.

Running Colours, released in 2022, is Balfour’s latest solo effort, and it showcases his knack for blending jazz sensibilities with electronic textures and modern production techniques. The album is a carefully crafted journey through different moods and styles, with Balfour’s keyboard work at the forefront. While the record doesn't break new ground in any dramatic way, it offers a solid, well-executed collection of tracks that reflect his depth as a musician.

The album opens with "Funk Now," a track that sets the tone with its laid-back groove and smooth chord progressions. Balfour’s keys are subtle but effective, creating a relaxed atmosphere that feels both familiar and inviting. The production is clean and crisp, with each element of the track given space to breathe, highlighting Balfour’s attention to detail.

Tracks like "Electric Soup" and "Deep Down" showcase Balfour’s ability to blend organic instrumentation with electronic beats. The former leans into a more funk-driven sound, with tight basslines and a driving rhythm that nods to the fusion era of the 70s. "Deep Down," on the other hand, explores a more ambient, downtempo vibe, with swirling synths and a laid-back beat that give the track a dreamy, introspective feel.

The title track, "Running Colours," is perhaps the album’s most ambitious piece. It features a complex arrangement that weaves together different themes and motifs, showcasing Balfour’s compositional skills. The track builds gradually, with layers of keys, synths, and percussion coming together to create a rich, textured soundscape. It’s a track that rewards careful listening, revealing more with each play.

While Running Colours may not be a groundbreaking release, it is a solid and enjoyable album that reflects Balfour’s maturity as an artist. It’s clear that he’s a musician who knows his craft, and this record is a testament to his ability to create music that is both technically proficient and emotionally resonant.
For fans of jazz-inflected electronic music, or those who appreciate well-crafted instrumental albums, Running Colours is certainly worth a listen. It’s a record that quietly impresses, offering a glimpse into the mind of a musician who is content to let his music speak for itself.