shoe prints on the landscape of electronic music.
Listening to “Fingers, Bank Pads & Shoe Prints,” one is immediately immersed in the raw energy and battle-ready aesthetics that define Footwork. RP Boo, often compared to Juan Atkins in Techno for his foundational role, humbly acknowledges his impact: “It has taken me a while to adjust to… It helps me see that I represent a breathing source of sounds.” This album, featuring tracks both new and old, underscores his position not just as a pioneer, but as a continuing source of inspiration for dancers and producers alike. His music fuels the competitive fire of Footworkers, pushing them to new levels of energy and creativity on the dance floor, each step and slide leaving their unique shoe prints in the ongoing evolution of the form.
RP Boo’s connection to dance is visceral. Those fortunate enough to witness his DJ sets, know he doesn’t remain confined to the DJ booth. He steps into the crowd, embodying the spirit of Footwork through movement, spreading its infectious energy both sonically and physically. This duality – the intensity of his battle-driven music and his personal joyousness – is a fascinating aspect of RP Boo. He explains, “I know how to speak battle from being in the circles. Footworkers need fuel and they often say, only you can get us to battle like that… Once outside the turntables, I use the same energy to speak with people. It’s a job and I am strong on giving encouragement to others.” His dedication to uplifting others mirrors the uplifting nature of Footwork itself, a dance that, despite its battle origins, is fundamentally about community and shared experience. The shoe prints left behind in a Footwork circle are not just individual marks, but a collective impression of shared passion and energy.
Sonically, RP Boo is a master craftsman, dissecting and reassembling samples with a samurai-like precision. “Fingers, Bank Pads & Shoe Prints” showcases this unique approach, offering a range of tracks that highlight his sonic versatility. From the gritty street energy of “Banging On King Dr.” to the noir depths of “Sleepy,” and the subtle funk of “Your Choice,” the album is a journey through the diverse textures of Footwork. Tracks like “Lets Dance Again” echo Chicago’s rich dance music history, while “Daddy’s Home” builds dramatic tension with strings, culminating in the aspirational closer “B’Ware.” Each track leaves its own sonic shoe print, distinct yet undeniably RP Boo.
“Fingers, Bank Pads & Shoe Prints” is more than just an album; it’s a reaffirmation of RP Boo’s leadership in Footwork. It’s a sonic landscape marked by the shoe prints of an innovator, solidifying his legacy and paving the way for future generations of Footwork artists. This album is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the roots and future of this vital genre.
