Set It Off sounds like just the sort of title the Stereo MCs would have
chosen for a single in their commercial heyday back in the 90s. And yes, if
you listen closely there is indeed a faint echo of Connected in the
reassuringly strong bass. The vocal hook may not be so immediate, but
there's a more human feel here, the contrast between Rob B's rap and the
more soulful Cath Coffey vocal working well.
The track has a gritty, urban feel to it, and this is reflected in the
choice of remix artists. Cavemen do just what the name implies, and
take the music into an underground cavern for some big drum action,
propelled by a bass designed to remove wall plastering, a darker rap thrown
in for good measure. Deekline & Wizard, meanwhile, remove the
majority of the vocals and inject a nervous energy into the instrumental
loops, which, teamed with a faster breakbeat, make a cracking dancefloor
burner.
They may not enjoy the same profile of old, but that's not a valid
reason for the Stereo MCs to suffer the criminal neglect they do these
days. They still have plenty to contribute.
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