[Feel Music]

Eyebrows raised and ears perked up when the close-knit Dial label added hitherto unknown, John Roberts, as the first American on its roster. “Hesitate,” his debut single that cobbled together deep-house movers from deftly manipulated samples and live instrumentation, did not disappoint. You could argue it was the most striking platter the imprint delivered in 2008 (in part because of a brief release schedule). All that in mind, anticipation and expectations for Roberts’ next release are high, and they’re likely to be met (and possibly exceeded) by “Bodywork,” his single-sided 12″ for John Daly’s Feel Music.

Roberts’ latest delves deeper into the aesthetic which first brought him so much success, maintaining the languid tempo and intricate patchwork of samples and synths. While the irregularly-spaced patter of snares and distant hi-hats invoke familiarity, the pacing and adroit interplay between percussion and drifting organ arrangements speak of new found confidence. The organ’s dull roar grows louder as it groans and flexes across the register and is met by sharpened synth stabs and marimba droplets. “Bodywork” feels very much alive, breathing, baring a bit of bruised soul. Its detailed construction, expressive tones and melancholic mood put the tune in league with Workshop’s better cuts and speak volumes of John Roberts’ potential as a producer. This single — one of my early 2009 favorites — is not one to miss.