Real recognize real: it was Dam-Funk who first hipped us (and the rest of the modern world) to this absolute scorcher way back in 2008 on his first-ever Stones Throw mix. “Messages From The Stars” is a perfect boogie track in every possible way: cosmic pads, ace synth fingerplay, banging drums, syrupy female vocals, space sounds that Dr. Who would cosign, and a synth bass perfectly mixed down to accentuate those stellar high-mid frequencies. Richard A. Hewson (initials = R.A.H.) formed the RAH Band in 1976 after an illustrious career spent arranging songs for the likes of Herbie Hancock, The Beatles, Supertramp, Diana Ross and more, but “Messages” is his masterpiece. The 6+ minute Long Wave mix is the one we reach for, but the appropriately dubbed out Astro Mix on the flip is perfectly tuned for blurry afterhours cosmic excursions.  Recommended.

• a-side plays at 45rpm, b-side plays at 33rpm
• remastered sound
• full color replica pic sleeve
• original year of release: 1983
• music label: Rush Hour 2025

reviewed by hannibal chew 03/2018