Freeez scored a big hit with their juicy synthpop hit “I.O.U.”, but the song is revealed in its full splendour in the dub version.
The sharp, punchy bassline keeps things rolling throughout, because this track is first and foremost a dance track. The drum machine sets out a snappy combination of snares and kicks alongside this, resulting in a sturdy rhythm section.
Some other lovely touches include the short, rising string melody and the sweet bell synths.
Although the song sounds like it could be from Detroit, Freeez were a British outfit, known for Jazz-Funk music rather than synthpop like this. However, the track was mixed by prolific NYC producer John “Jellybean” Benitez.
The song was released in 1983; the vocalled “I.O.U.” version reached number 2 on the U.K. singles chart.