1977 presented the pinnacle of soul albums, 'Come into Knowledge' a RAMP classic saw the evolution of soul music. Dated? Not quite, with many in the industry still latching on to their grinding beats and emotive lyrics, the incessant sampling of RAMP's music still continues today.

Being the original culprits of the phenomenal, 'Daylight' and 'Everybody Loves The Sunshine', RAMP has long swept the soul arena. Despite their disappearing act of 10 years, their unofficial disbandment gyrating anxious artists to catapult them back into the mainstream bandwagon.

As their sampling stretched to rap music, their RAMP vibes were rehashed and resuscitated, "It is good for those who are doing the sample to know that there was something done previously. It is not only good but note worthy if they are learning something from it. John explains, "'Come into Knowledge' has been so heavily sampled it helps suggest that our music is timeless and classic."

To describe RAMP's music as 'heavily sampled' is skimming the surface slightly. In fact, the 90s was dominated by RAMP traits and swirls of their music were embedded into, Rap beats, Hip Hop chimes and R&B melodies. "Everyday, even now when looking online at encyclopaedias etc, RAMP has had many samples. We are really proud of that. I think the pros would be that it really sets you on the map. People recognise your work and it is an honour to be so heavily sampled," John trills.

Having their music chopped and sliced, re-jigged and revamped their careers have taken a new lease of life. Now, hitting the music circus after a long pause, it is evident that sampling has beneficially elevated the band to exceeding heights, "Yes! It has been a gateway to getting back because our music is recognised. People know the roots of recent work that they have heard. You play the first few notes of 'Daylight' and people recognise," John replies.

Obtaining optimum demand is a conquest RAMP knows only too well. With many producers and artists snatching their beats, surely the soulmeisters themselves would want to rework their own material? "Absolutely! We are talking about it right now. Just to speak about it helps to confirm that it is something we should seriously consider and naturally do," exclaims John.

As new projects shadow their touring schedule, John prioritises the band's focus, "We are all currently working on our last show we want it to be hot and exciting. We are also working on new material that has the same sound; new material with the sound of 1977." Determined to savour RAMP's flavour, John confirms, "Don't mess with success. If it's not broke then don't fix it. We want to go with what has been successful, what has been our signature sound. We want to be careful so we don't change our formula." An adamant statement that will surely make fans old and new gag for more!

Related Links:
> www.myspace.com/ramp77