By kosmikdstroyer 
Lemon D‘s “Vol II EP” is a landmark release in the jungle and drum and bass scene, blendingreggae-infused vocals, jazzy rollers, and heavy Amen breaks into a cohesive and dynamicthree-track experience. Its expertly crafted samples and infectious rhythms have cemented it asa classic, beloved by collectors and DJs alike. The EP not only showcases Lemon D’s productionprowess but also highlights his role in shaping the sound of 1990s UK electronic music. Whetheryou’re a longtime fan or new to jungle and drum and bass, “Vol II EP” is an essential listen thatcaptures the spirit and innovation of the era
Lemon D’s “Vol II EP,” released in 1995 on Conqueror Records (catalog number OC 009), is widely regarded as one of his best works and a classic in the jungle and drum and bass genres. This 12″ vinyl EP features three tracks: “Jah Love” on side A, and “Back 2 Chicago” and”Manhattan Melody” on side AA. The EP is characterized by its breakbeat-driven, jungle-infused sound with elements of drum and bass, showcasing Lemon D’s skillful production anddistinctive style.
Musical and Production Highlights:
Sampling and Influence:
The EP creatively incorporates samples from various sources, including:
“Manhattan Melody” was also sampled in later works, such as Earth Boys’ “Welcome 2 Earth,”showing the EP’s lasting influence.
Release and Legacy:
Originally released in the UK on vinyl, the EP has seen a white label repress around 1999 or2000, limited to about 300 copies, underscoring its cult status among collectors and DJs. Therelease is celebrated for its infectious jungle vibe, blending heavy Amen breaks with soulful andjazzy elements, and is often cited as a must-have in drum and bass collections.
“Jah Love”
is noted for its smooth cruising bassline, rare groove samples, and prominentvocals sampled from Bob Marley & The Wailers’ “Positive Vibration” (correcting a commonmisattribution to “Good Vibration”). It also features flute and vocal samples from TheUpsetters’ “Curly Dub,” contributing to its deep reggae-inflected jungle vibe.
“Back 2 Chicago”
stands out as a jazzy roller with crisp, snappy beats reminiscent of thestyle popularized by artists like LTJ Bukem. Despite being a shorter track due to the EPformat constraints, it is praised for its musicality and groove
“Manhattan Melody”
is often described as the highlight of the EP. It starts with a mellow,soulful feel featuring piano keys and vocal samples, then transitions into a heavy, bass-driven jungle track with intricate Amen breaks. The track is known for its powerful drops anddynamic energy, making it a bass-heavy and mind-blowing tune that demands attention ona sound system.
Vocals and flute from The Upsetters’ “Curly Dub”
Vocals from Bob Marley & The Wailers’ “Positive Vibration”
Laugh sample from Morenas’ “Hazme Sonar”
Vocal from Extortion’s “How Do You See Me Now”
Lemon D (Kevin King), a key figure in the jungle and drum and bass scene since the early 1990s,is known for his innovative production and contributions to the genre’s evolution. His work on”Vol II EP” exemplifies his signature style of combining dark, techy beats with intricate rhythmsand soulful samples. This EP remains a testament to his influence and creativity within electronicmusic.