Serocee - You'll Never Find 7" - NiceUp

(Jambrum Records, 2008)

I had my tunes on shuffle the other day and this wee gem popped up. I’d forgotten how much I like this tune, which made me realise I’d never picked up the 7″. This was promptly resolved a few days later.

Serocee was born in Birmingham. With both his parents involved in sound systems, it was no surprise music came naturally. Raised in Jamaica with an uncle and aunt, Serocee started his apprenticeship free-styling on corners with local artists and penned his first song as an eight year old.

Returning to the UK as a teenager he quickly became involved in Birmingham’s hip hop scene, forming the crew ‘Crossfire’ with friend DLT. As he honed his skills he quickly gained a reputation on the scene, winning numerous battles and competitions, able to flip styles and chat over anything effortlessly, which he continues to do.

Serocee’s major musical influences span across a number of genres from reggae to jazz. Notable artist influences include Bob Marley and Ninjaman, Nas, Redman, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles. He has performed around the world with the likes of Busta Rhymes, Basement Jaxx, Jus Now, The Roots, Danny Byrd, Public Enemy and Toddla T. He also featured on Toddla T’s BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra show with his monthly hour long feature, ‘Sero’s Sound Snippets’. Hearing him in session is always a guaranteed good night with his ability as a selector, operator and on the mic, tearing up sessions, regardless of the style.

The original You’ll Never Find by John Holt is a favourite tune of mine. Serocee rides the rework of the riddim with his consummate ease, sharpness and humour. I think what I like about it are all the blues dance references – although I’ve heard plenty of stories about them they remain something I missed out on in my reggae upbringing.

I’m not the biggest fan of soundbwoy tunes but I make an exception for this, I think it all works together really well. The riddim, lyrics and snippets from Sir John Holt’s original dropping in and out just makes me smile. The video is great. And as we all know Keety Roots knows how to lay down a ruff bass line, so you also get a nice version on the flip to accompany the vocal.