Listen Up! No. 92: Liam Bailey - You Better Leave Me

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Having got rather excited about this Nottingham newcomer's star turn amidst the hedonistic drum'n'pop of Chase and Status' 'Blind Faith', not to mention last year's sublime lo-fi EP 2AM Rough Tracks, it's both a joy and a relief to find that Liam Bailey's forthcoming debut solo single - due to be released on March 13 - is a winner. On 'You Better Leave Me' he slides seemlessly into neo-soul mode, and while edges have been softened by the hit-factory production (courtesy of Amy Winehouse co-conspirator Salaam Remi), nothing can neuter the indomitable dub-soul gusto of his remarkable croon. This will soar in the kind of pokey venues which Bailey is still commited to play. Catch him there while you still can.