Album Review: Casual High Technology, Wajatta

With a career that has spanned nearly two decades, comedian, actor, musician and beatboxer Reggie Watts’ latest project sees him team up with LA DJ John Tejada, to form the electro-pop group Wajatta. Their debut offering, Casual High Technology, sees Watts’ distinctive and melodic vocals layered over Tajeda’s expertly crafted synth driven beats.

Opening track ‘We Know More (Than We Lead On)’ introduces us to some signature falsetto vocals from Watts, with Tejada providing some nice minimalist rhythms. While the record keeps it low-key to start with, elsewhere, Tejada doesn’t shy away from the pulsating beats he’s renowned for. Tunes like ‘Red And The Blue’ and ‘Je Wa Soto’ hark back to the ecstasy-driven rave culture of ’90s Britain. The album really reaches a peak on ‘Slippin’, where Watts’ improvisations merge with Tejada’s pounding synths to thrilling effect. The duo may be unlikely collaborators, but they have produced a hugely impressive piece of work in Casual High Technology.

Rating: 8/10