2008 Albums
14-Jan-2008
Sia – Some People Have Real Problems (Monkey Puzzle Records)
If you’ve never heard the name Sia, then you can be forgiven, but there’s no doubt you’ll have heard her unique, Antipodean gravely vocals. Sia is the voice of choice for many of the most highly acclaimed downtempo dance acts around; she’s arguably the standout feature of Zero 7’s “Simple Things” album and has also been featured by Massive Attack and Turin Brakes, just to name a few heavyweights. My initial thoughts of this, Sia’s 3rd full solo album, are that she’ll have much more luck breaking into the mainstream now with the production skills of Amy Winehouse and Corinne Bailey Rae producer, Jimmy Hogarth. As is often the way though, mainstream can often signify the slipstream into indistinguishable pop. The silky smooth production does nothing to emphasise Sia’s rough, yearning soul cries. Her voice is consistently incredible however, and she showcases it on tracks like “You Have Been Loved”, which is reminiscent of Alanis Morisette. Fans of Sia’s earlier work will be treated by such tracks as “I Go to Sleep”, which compliments Sia’s voice with delicate keys and strings. She also explores her fun side with tracks like “Academia”, “Playground” and the hidden track “Buttons”. If you don’t buy this album, then glance towards her back catalogue; with the golden collection of material she’s amassed both solo and collaboratively, it’s time Sia helped your real problems go away with her opulent Sunday afternoon treasures.
7/10 Emu Robot
14-Jan-2008
Jack Cheshire - Allow It To Come On
‘Allow It To Come On’ is the debut album from slurry voiced Jack Cheshire, a hotly-tipped singer songwriter from North London whose style has been compared to that of Swedish indie sensation Jose Gonzalez. Recorded this past summer in Jack’s bedroom in North London, this intimate LP features ten tracks of Cheshire’s simple acoustic sound but, whilst the guitar playing is somewhat comparable to that of Gonzalez, that is, unfortunately, where the similarity ends. For me, the problem was that Cheshire’s voice just didn’t grab me in any way, shape or form and, after the first few songs, I had quickly slipped into a deep, dark melancholic state – and I was in a pretty good mood when I first started listening! That being said, there are a few very nice tracks on this album, such as ‘Memory Gland’ and ‘Allow It To Come On’, but for the best example of the singers’ style, I would recommend downloading ‘Love’, the standout song and by far the chirpiest offering on the album. It’s not that this album is bad as such, it’s just…not very interesting. With so many great artists of a similar ilk, such as Jose Gonzalez, Damien Rice and, of course, master of the craft Nick Drake, I’m afraid that Jack just doesn’t cut the mustard, and certainly didn’t leave me smiling like a Cheshire cat.
4/10 Max Vealocity
21-Jan-2008
Love is All - Mixed Up (Parlaphone/What’s Your Rupture)
Although at first glance a stopgap while Love Is All record the follow up to 2006’s ‘Nine Times That Same Song’, ‘Mixed Up’ shows that remix albums aren’t always doomed to failure. Not completely anyway. With nine remixes of five songs from the album, it’s surprising that the it doesn’t become overly repetitive. This is mainly thanks to the originals’ layers of interesting melodies and Josephine’s distinctive yelped vocals, which remain prominent in all of the songs. Perhaps most successful is the opening track: Fryars’ version of Felt Tip. Starting as a simple drumbeat and bassline, the song slowly introduces hook upon hook, with Josephine’s backing vocals mostly retaining the tune and structure that is necessary to keep the song in order. Occasionally, however, as with many elements of the album, there is just too much going on. At one point there are six different distinguishable hooks, creating a messy sound that has become a convention of rem! ix albums. Avoiding this for the most part is Maps, whose version of ‘Turn the Radio Off’ is an epic, luxurious, trance-like journey which is as complete as you could hope a remix to be. The rest of the album is inconsistent, but this is still worth a listen, even if you haven’t heard the original.
6/10 Jazz Monroe
21-Jan-2008
Cat Power – Jukebox (Matador)
Too many a listener their first exposure to the sounds of Chan Marshall was here previous collection of other people’s songs the Covers Album, well they can’t say they didn’t know what they were getting with that one. Especially if they had got their ears round to the inspired reworking of The Stones Satisfaction. So if you’re already familiar by that or her criminally overlooked The Greatest album you’ll be chomping at the bit to see just whether she can deliver another album to her own very high standards. So when the jaw dropping take on Old Blue Eye’s New York hits you like a brick to the head you have to play it again and again. The languid swagger of her new backing band the Dirty Delta Blues shines like a beacon across these dark winter nights. Taking a varied palette ranging from Hank Williams to James Brown and making them so much here own, Chan understands the true art to the cover version. Yet what really takes this collection to the next level is her takes on the two tracks of her own contained here. Metal Heart is just downright heartbreaking from the first words ten years from its debut airing it now seem more fragile in its revived state. Where as the newbie Song to Bobby is so much more than a tag along to her take on old Zimmerman’s I Believe In You. As essential a purchase as you’ll get this year. Head out quickly or click a mouse to get the bonus double CD set for even more beauty in 5 extra tracks that by right would have sat on anybody else’s main album. Cat Powers too good a secret not to share.
8.5/10 David Gray
28-Jan-2008
British Sea Power- Do You Like Rock Music? (Rough Trade)
Rock music is alright but to be frank it could be better if more bands were like British Sea Power. On their third long player the Brighton four piece raise the bar set by their previous releases to unimaginably heights. Where as they never stray into the self-indulgences of wordy and worthy art rock, preferring the directly focused approach that can at times can sooth, see No Need to Cry and scorch like Atom which explodes into a second world war air raid siren at its end. Yes there’s a nod to Blur here but only if Damon had let Graham Coxon fully take the reins quite frankly that would’ve been wonderful. So those who espouse the brilliance of the terminally over-rated Arcade Fire should have already got themselves a copy of Waving Flags of all things a top forty hit in praise of immigration. A song that expounds on the albums potential for three minute epics of which all twelve tracks are worthy to be named. In fact the only choice you have with this album is do you buy it before your ticket for their upcoming Waterfront show.
8.5/10 David Gray
28-Jan-2008
All Our Good Friends – Promise (Mumbomusic)
All Our Good Friends is ex-FIN frontman Johnny Daukes who, since the breakup of that band in 1997 has, amongst other things, spent his time variously writing comedy sketches for Radio 4, contributing to ‘Monkey Dust’ and riding stunt motorbike in pop videos for Westlife and Blue. This, then, is a man of varied talents so I am looking forward to seeing what his debut ‘solo’ album has to offer. Opener This is very much in the Sparklehorse vein when at their more gentle and, coming in at a mere 1½ minutes is a nice way to start the album. In fact, it acts as something of an intro for track 2 which it runs seamlessly into and which continues that sort of parklehorseyness, particularly the transition to the grubby sounding guitar, complete with dischords and dramatic swell, before falling back to the more mellow sound the song began with. The use of varied and sometimes extreme dynamics in this album is very good and it’s nice to see applied to something more certainly more poppy and perhaps more accessible than bands like Mogwai and Godspeed, You Black Emperor. There’s also some great instrumentation at work and the mixing is exciting to listen to, music aside. All in all, Promise is full of great songs and is a damned fine record.
8/10 BBV
28-Jan-2008
Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend (XL)
With debut single Mansard Roof already ensconced in most of the music press favourite’s tunes of 2007 comes the self titled debut album from apparently the hottest thing out of New York since, well who cares since whom? Because quite frankly there’s no one out there at the moment who sounds like this four piece. It’s a mix that could be too clever by half had they not checked every track with syrupy pop hooks that sit alongside the dips into the diverse worlds of chamber music, African Rhythms as well as the over trodden path that leads to post-punk. The fun levels never drop and a broad grin permeates your soul as the 40 or so minutes whizz past in the nod of a head. It’s although all of these songs are old friends. Whether that’s down to singer Ezra Koenig’s tendency to vocally resemble Sting or the only obvious nod to their sound They Might Be Giants. Quite frankly they were incredibly enjoyable listen and in this exceptional debut so are Vampire Weekend. Listen and smile as you burn the majority of the eleven tracks contained and fill your MP3 player with joy.
8/10 David Gray
04-Feb-2008
Robots in Disguise- “We’re In the Music Biz” (President Records Ltd)
With tracks such as “The Sex Has Made Me Stupid, “Can’t Stop Getting Wasted, and “Don’t Copy Me”, there is no mistaking the sounds of Dee Plume and Sue Denim amongst their tongue-in-cheek lyrics and robust bass lines that mirror the sounds of Le Tigre as they re-introduce a naughty streak amidst the world of planet pop. There are no arguments concerning the electro-punk, DJ duo and their abilities to produce effortless pop pleasure however, Robots in Disguise’s third album also presents us with another predictable savvy/edgy/raw, (or however you want to phrase it) take on, well, themselves. There is no denial that the band portray a strong female identity however Robots in Disguise tend to come across as slightly petulant, bratty and egotistical and serve to remind me of a long lost 80’s pop act. “We’re In The Music Biz”, sticks two fingers up to the press who as quoted within the song, previously called the band “the most unsuccessful duo the UK has never known”, perhaps an accurate observation of the girls who are most probably more ‘famous’ for their infrequent roles in ‘The Mighty Boosh’ and therefore Dee Plume’s relations with Noel Fielding (who has served as bassist for the girls in the past). Robots in Disguise are a bit like marmite; however as for loving them or hating them, I’m not sure which band wagon to jump on, but they’re doing it for the girlies which is always a bonus.
5/10 MaddyRose
04-Feb-2008
The Duke Spirit - Neptune
Chances are that The Duke Spirit are one of those bands that you’ve heard of but not much of their material. Chances are that it soon may be difficult to escape them. The art school conceived English rock band return with their second album and it is too strong to ignore. With 2008 seeming to be ‘the year’ for female vocalists, lead singer Liela Moss embodies the sound of strong lady-led rock. Her golden-haired angelic appearance belies her razor-sharp commanding voice and perfectly complements the swelling sound of her four band mates’ delicately orchestrated rock offerings. Imagine the Editors fronted by PJ Harvey and you’re approaching the sound of the Duke Spirit. The highlight of the album for me is “The Step and the Walk”, the intro of which sounds like it could have been a cover of The Gossip’s “Fire with Fire”. This could be said of a lot of the songs on this album; there is a hugely familiar feel to them making them instantly memorable, yet at the same time Leila Moss’ vocals making sound refreshing and original. There seems to be a running theme of water on this record; whether this is deliberate or not, it certainly accentuates the feeling that this is desolate, searching art-rock lost somewhere at sea – a definite listen alone album.
8/10 Emu Robot
04-Feb-2008
One Night Only: Started A Fire (Vertigo Records)
If you listen to Radio 1, chances are you’ve already heard of One Night Only – Jo Whiley has been firmly behind the North Yorkshire five-piece for some time now, selecting their second single, ‘Just For Tonight’, as her Record of the Week in December. And for good reason too. This, the opening track of debut album ‘Started A Fire’, is one hell of a tune, an epic indie-rock anthem that will have you singing along heartily after just one listen. Signed to Vertigo Records, home of The Killers and Razorlight, One Night Only look set to become one of the big acts to watch in 2008. All amazingly still in their teens, the boys have produced a solid and highly enjoyable debut offering in ‘Started A Fire’, blending great songwriting with some immensely fun and melodic tracks. Songs that stand out particularly include debut single ‘You and Me’ and the catchy ‘It’s About Time’. Having previously supported 2007 favourites The Enemy and The Pigeon Detectives, One Night Only have now embarked on their own headline tour, which kicked off at the Norwich Arts Centre in late January. Whether they will go on to be the band of 2008 is anyone’s guess right now, but if this album is anything to go by, they’re definitely serious contenders.
8/10 Max Vealocity
04-Feb-2008
Rivers Cuomo – Alone: The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo (Geffen)
Anyone familiar with Rivers Cuomo will most likely be familiar with the work of Weezer, that odd little geek-kitsch rock band who played with the Muppets in that one video and everyone who likes them probably isn’t really sure why. This, then, screens out half of the prospective listeners in one fell swoop; if you don’t like Weezer, then you won’t like ‘Alone’. The nerdish, romantic simplicity very much remains, and can be a bit alienating if it’s taken too seriously. Weezer is very much an esoteric donkey, and the same remains of Cuomo’s solo extrapolations. That said, for the demographic that remains this album is a must; even fair-weather Weezites should enjoy the eclectic, unpretentious creative energies of someone who’s very good and very human about what he does. The collection, which spans fifteen years of recording, comprises acapella arrangements, straight-up rock tunes, explorative meanderings, hippie acoustic numbers and even … um … three or four acts from his allegorical space musical, dotted sporadically across the collection and ending Star-Wars style somewhere in the middle with Dude, We’re Finally Landing. There are a few fall points – notably This is the Way. I could sum it up, but the man himself does it in his own liner notes … it’s a “middle of the road, urban pop type of song”. I’ll let that analysis speak for itself. All pre-amble aside, however, two realities remain: it’s an interesting and quirky insight into an interesting and quirky man; and most of the songs are good. Some will find the sloppy, garage feel endearing while others will prefer the polished pop of Weezer’s studio albums; but ultimately ‘Alone’ carries the solitary emotiveness which shines through in Weezer’s records, but is prevented from taking full and poignant stride until now.
7/10 Benny Face
04-Feb-2008
Hot Chip – Made in the Dark
With falsetto vocals warmed, synths prepped and an armoury of killer tunes in hand, the kings of geek-chic, Hot Chip, are back with their third studio album. They’re currently all over the radio like a nasty case of herpes with their latest single, Ready for the Floor, and it’s incredible listening to each DJ trying to claim ownership of the track as their Record of the Week. But it’s just a warm up; this album is powerful throughout. The album opens with Out at the Pictures, which employs Hot Chip’s signature repetitious electro sound, but is daringly aggressive. It takes the kind of assault of the Klaxons’ Atlantis to Interzone, and blows it out of the bedroom. This feeling carries on with Shake a Fist, which I find hard to believe was written 2 years ago, as Hot Chip seem to have surpassed and sound fresher than the newest dance incarnations. The power behind each of the album’s stompers is riot worthy and unrelenting, which is why a few well-timed downbeat tracks compliment the album perfectly. Hot Chip weave delicate vocals over sporadic beats with Made in the Dark and A Touch Too Much, before moving up a gear with some guitar-led Britpop, which works surprisingly well. There is not a bad track on this album, but I wouldn’t even contemplate buying it unless you’re willing to TURN. IT. UP. LOUD.
10/10 Emu Robot
04-Feb-2008
The Cave Singers – Invitation Songs (Matador)
So welcome to 2008 and we have a debut album roving there is still life in this nu-folk revival. Ex-Pretty Girls Make Graves man Derek Fudesco’s Seattle based three piece bring another prime cut to those of that persuasion and if your prepare to take a chance there’s something here for you. Why? Well despite as you’d expect being entrenched in acousticland. The ten strummed paeans to life and god has the ability to surprise as its Americana is augmented by side a garnish of electronica and melodica. Intriguing and beguiling at the same time when the percussion-less Helen that charms the most as lyrics flow like an out-pouring heart. There’s a depth that a debut album has no right to possess. Even when things take a darker turn on New Monuments or the closer Called, that still sounds too pleasant to by taint by the funeral shuffle it’s tagged along to. So, If you’ve ever felt charmed by Mark Lanegan or Kurt Cobain's take on acoustic blues. You’ll do far worse than to investigate The Cave Singers. You find yourselves returning time and time again and each time picking out something even more charming than you found on your last visit.
8/10 David Gray
11-Feb-2008
Vinny Peculiar - Goodbye My Angry Friend (Pronoia Records)
Alan Wilkes’ alter-ego Vinny Peculiar is bid adieu amongst a flourish of over production and effects on the first track from the Manc’s seventh offering. And unfortunately this underlines the melancholy of all the tracks that follow. To be honest this album does not make much sense to me, I am not even sure of the demographic for an album that wears its heart on its sleeve to the extent that this one does, dare I say it, but I cant help but notice a lot of self pitying throughout. I am inclined to say that this may well be owing to the hard work this obviously talented musician puts into his music, while he is yet to reap the rewards of a breakthrough into the ‘contemporary’ music field. The simple enjoyable melody of ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’ is yet again tarnished by the over-the-top synth-laden production and incredibly unnecessary overdubbing on the vocals and this rings home throughout. It’s not all bad news though, as we pensively drift into the last few songs of the album. ‘Lazy Bohemians’ beckons you to listen, like a ray of sunshine pulls you outside. And then without apology I am thrown back into the type of album I will keep in my collection but will only see it again when I am trying to find ‘The Smiths’ or something. This is not by any means a bad album; it’s just not very engaging and for me not at all entertaining. Goodbye ‘Vinny Peculiar‘.
4/10 Lee Beales
11-Feb-2008
Asaviour – Play 2 Win Vol.2 (Saving Grace Music)
Every now and then you receive something in your life that promises a little bit of extra excitement. It could be a new porno (one of those nasty ones with plenty of spit) or simply a home cooked meal (especially when you are automatically excused from clearing up). Other times it is simply a new CD, although if your lucks really in you could end up with all three. Unfortunately today I am not so lucky, although I can’t really complain because the CD is Asaviour’s latest offering ‘Play 2 Win.’ Produced / hosted by Asaviour and mixed by DJ IQ the mixtape amalgamates guest appearances, remixes, exclusives and rarities from TB, Ric Branson, Jehst, Sir Smurf Lil, Last Skeptik, Dubbleledge, Kaspa, Verb T, Yungun, Micall Pakinsun and Apatight. The outcome is definitely way above average as Asaviour stamps his style through charismatic lyrics and tight production. But what really makes the ladies cream their tight white cotton panties is the involvement of DJ IQ, who really performs a wax lap dance for everyone’s ears. This mixtape is definitely a wise investment if you like this sort of thing and much cheaper than a mortgage.
9/10 Tommy Dog
11-Feb-2008
Black Tide – Light From Above (Polydor Records)
U.S. 4 piece Black Tide sounded so promising in the first few seconds of their first track, ‘Shockwave’, and then disappointed by sounding so much like Iron Maiden for the rest of the album. One song blended into the next and even with the Latino-influenced intro to ‘Warriors of Time’ each track was the same formulaic combination of Dickinson-esque vocals, guitar solo’s and chant-along choruses. Even the lyrics are standard 80’s rock sentiments – warriors fighting for victory, living on the edge, dripping sweat – they even have a song called ‘Live Fast Die Young’. There is nothing here from the heart, no insights or emotion, just a collection of well-played noise that wouldn’t seem out of place on a ‘Bill and Ted’ soundtrack. There is no doubt that these guys are tight, talented musicians but it shows through their music in the worst way as they perform too well and it leaves the album without energy or sincerity. As the band are young (the lead singer actually thanks his X-Box in the credits) I’m hoping with more maturity they’ll use their talents to create something a little fresher but this offering from Black Tide is just typical old school heavy metal without any real guts.
6/10 Lenore
11-Feb-2008
City And Colour – Bring Me Your Love LP (Hassle)
Calling all Alesxisonfire fans. If you are looking to sink your teeth into a slice of Canadian hardcore, this album isn’t for you. If however, like me, you agree that hardcore is a waste of talent and song writing, then step this way. Admittedly I wasn’t too pleased when I learnt that this album was the brainchild of Dallas Green (now under the pseudonym of City and Colour) of the aforementioned Juno (Canadian Grammys) award winning screamers. When I put it on, however I realised that he’s the one that actually sings, as opposed to the buffoon that just growls at you incoherently. I was genuinely surprised, yet it took me about 6 listens to differentiate between songs. You see, Mr Green has chosen ‘City and Colour’ to put his vocal talents to good use, but like many other male singer songwriters, he doesn’t seem to quite grasp the concept of variety. There has been the odd gem within this generic field in past years, such as Damien Rice’s Cannonball and Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah, but the rest are just weak willed meanderings each echoing a “Get me - I was recorded live” vibe. Like on many others before it, the dozen songs on Bring Me Your Love drift in and out of each other with nothing really standing up and grabbing me. Unfortunately, my favourite gem, The Girl, is not on City And Colour’s MySpace, so you’re gonna have to take my word for it. Have a gander anyway, the tracks that are up give you the right idea.
6/10 Kelleh
11-Feb-2008
Chris Joss – Teraphonic Overdubs (ESL Music)
‘Bonjour mon petit croissants, my name is Chris Joss and I am French. I should probably tell you that I am a professional lover and musician… which is why I have tried to combine lovemaking with music, drugs and garlic. I have tried to replicate porn-like music to create a sense of horniness within the loins of the listener. Being a cultured lover I naturally expect a petite snail trail or two from my female fans as they indulge in my sexual rhythms.’ If I were able to interview Chris Joss I swear that is what he would say, for it is true… I can’t honestly think of a better description of ’Teraphonic Overdubs’ as it is simply a bizarre collection of vintage 60s boogie, 70s psychedelia, retro samples and obscure breakbeats. However, what I find slightly disturbing is some tracks sound similar to theme tunes used in children’s TV programmes … think along the lines of Anna Malle meets the magic roundabout. However, he is French so he can get away with it, after all he probably has the audacity to wear Speedos whilst referring to himself as a groovy dude.
Tommy Dog 6/10
03-Mar-2008
The Gutter Twins - Saturnalia
In its 20th year anniversary, Greg Dulli (Afghan Whig's, The Twilight Singers) and Mark Lanegan (Screaming Tree's, Queens of the Stone Age, Soulsavers) return to Sub Pop for this gem of a collaboration. Conceived from ideas both artists had come up with over various recording projects together, Saturnalia is nothing less than phenomenal. Although both artists have had hugely successful and influential careers in their own rights, this album contains twelve outstanding tracks. Musically it offers a panoramic soundscape lush enough to convince the most critical of ears. Dare i say it, but this could be the best work of both their highly decorated careers. Each track is progressive in essence, with mesmerising string arrangements dramatic to the point of necessity. The complexity, yet ease of the song structures leave little room for condemnation. This in itself is no sweeping statement as both the twins’ previous works have always gone down with critical acclaim. Dulli takes a more laid back approach on his vocal duties but his voice sounds more soulful and heartfelt than ever before. This, mixed with the tobacco stained growl Lanegan provides, delivers the perfect cocktail. Transcending and triumphant is the end result of this project, delivered with more finesse and style than Frank Sinatra on Valentines night. Saturnalia would be on the top of my Desert Island wish-list every time.
10/10 Marky B
03-Mar-2008
Billy Bragg – “Mr Love & Justice” (Cooking Vinyl).
Mr Bragg, the “Bard of Barking”, is back with his latest album, Mr Love & Justice. Although he may not be as raw or angry as in his younger “New England” days, the man is still a brilliant songwriter (Q’s Classic Songwriter of 2007) and his new set of tunes are cracking. Although his distinctive voice may be an acquired taste, this album contains many classic Bragg moments. The songs include numerous personal notes and show his new found contentment, ranging from the heartfelt I Keep Faith (the new single featuring Robert Wyatt) to If You Ever Leave, dedicated to his partner. However, Billy still has a strong political voice and the anti – war “Sing their Souls Back Home” and the “Johnny Carcinogenic Show”, a slight on modern culture, are as relevant as anything he has ever written. Another stand out track is the “Beach is Free”, which is so catchy, it could ensure a singles chart return for William. The album comes as a limited edition, with solo versions of the album and a full band version (Billy Bragg and the Blokes). The solo album is softer and acoustic with the full band version is livelier, but both come highly recommended. All in all, after a lengthy absence, it’s good to have Billy Bragg, Mr Love & Justice, back.
7/10 – Neil Burrage
03-Mar-2008
Kathryn Williams & Neill MacColl – Two (Caw Records)
Lying on a clear sunny beach, gently caressing the sand whilst the soft wind eases the hair from my face... is what I should be doing whilst listening to the new album by mercury prize nominee Kathryn Williams and guitar maestro Neill MacColl, humbly titled 'Two'. It has all the ingredients for a successful acoustic/ folk album showcasing vocal splendours, intimately written songs and inspired production values. 'Two' is the fruit of destiny for these musicians and promises a lasting musical relationship between Kathryn and Neill, who first met at the Daughters of Albion concert where they had been paired to perform 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face', a song which Neill's father Ewan MacColl wrote for his mother. In Kathryn's words ' We just clicked, we didn't need to say anything on stage, we could read where the other was going'. Songs such as 'Come With Me' and 'Holes in Your Life' pleasantly mirror these sentiments and share an intimacy that listeners will find comforting. The pair shall be visiting our fine city in April, performing songs from this album at The Norwich Arts Centre. I suggest you hear it for yourselves.
7/10 Ms. Cooper
03-Mar-2008
Malcolm Middleton - Sleight of Heart (Full Time Hobby)
After releasing the best christmas number 1 contender in years in ‘We’re All Going to Die’, Malcolm Middleton describes ‘Sleight of Hand’ as the last album of his “boohoo/way-hey period”. Although it showcases the beauty of his voice and his skilful lyricism, it’s apparent that this is not Middleton at his best. With three of these nine songs being covers (the best of which is an understatedly elegant take on Madonna’s ‘Stay’) “Sleight of Hand may have been better suited to the format of a five or six track EP. Mainly acoustic, the other two covers and a couple of album tracks seem almost pointless, with the music losing the bounce of opener ‘Week Off’ and occasionally relying on the lyrics, which are more consistent, to ensure that the songs don’t fall into the same level of soulless cliché as so many current songwriters. As a whole, this album clearly indicates that Middleton’s expertise in describing personal issues (such as “the de! ath of his unworthiness” in Total Belief) and witty observational skill safely place him leagues ahead of his current chart-topping counterparts. With any luck, the next album will finally grab Radio 2’s attention and banish all thoughts of Faulkner and Nutini from memory.
7/10 Jazz Monroe
03-Mar-2008
Pegi Young – 'Pegi Young' (Warner Bros. Records)
It was an exciting moment when I was handed the debut album by Pegi Young, wife of the infamous Neil Young, who has no doubt stood by her man even through the most questionable of his musical endeavours over the years. It is unfortunate however, that my eager anticipation for greatness and an insight into the years of experience that you'd expect from the Young legacy, was shattered within the first 2 songs of the album. Pegi has written 6 of the 11 tracks on the album, which hosts guest performances by Neil, (who contributes guitars, electric sitar, harmonica and vocals) Anthony Crawford, Spooner Oldham, Rick Rosas, Karl T. Himmell, Chad Cromwell and The Jordanaires (back-up vocal group who previously worked with the likes of Patsy Cline & Tammy Wynette). Despite the all star cast featured, the music fails to deliver any inspiration or even a sway from side to side. Whilst being a woman who has admirable achievements under her belt through co-founding The Bridge School for special needs children and giving birth and raising two Young-lings, I feel a sense of complacency when it comes to the reasons behind why she made this album. It perhaps owes to the ease in which she's able to access the industry with her surname, and the fans around the world that flock to it. I suppose there's nothing wrong with taking advantage of that situation, except that the outcome is rather mediocre. Sorry.
2/10 Ms Cooper
03-Mar-2008
Yes King – Rock This World (Mophonics)
From the beginning of ‘Rock This World’ Mark Rae and Rhys Adams (aka Yes King) deliver a slick melee of styles including hip-hop, dancehall, ragga and ska. The first track, ‘Champion Sound’ has been described in the press release as an ‘afro-disco-bashment stomper’ whatever that means, but it is good introduction nevertheless. It is also followed up nicely with the second track ‘Style Come Different’, which features Sweetie Irie who has long been on the ragga scene since the eighties (he’s the one on collaborated with the Gorrillaz). However, it is important to note as the album progresses there are some crap tracks. For example there are a few that sound like Alicia Keyes, although apparently the featured singer, Ayak, won the 2004’s Prince’s Trust Urban Music Award. Not that the award changes anything – I still don’t really like appreciate the combination of reggae and R&B. On the plus side, for every crap track there is also a good one like ‘War’, which is a Mexican ska / rock sound that is very different to all the other tracks featured on the album, demonstrating the varied talents of the Yes King duo.
Tommy dog 6/10
03-Mar-2008
Roni Size & Reprazent – New Forms2 (Commercial Marketing)
No no, you aren’t tripping out, nor have you been struck down with a bad case of amnesia. This album ‘WAS’ originally released eleven years ago. Its ten year anniversary last year gave Mr. Size & his Reprazent crew the idea to treat us once again to the 1997 Mercury Prize Winner, but this time around, with an extra special layer of the good stuff. Explaining his decision to re-edit New Forms, Roni was quoted as saying “the first generation of heads who were there with the rise of Reprazent & Roni Size will be able to reminisce over the last decade with the classics ‘Brown Paper Bag’, ‘Share the Fall’ and ‘Heroes’. The generation of those who missed it will be able to appreciate the album with the new coat of armour I have added. I think the fans of the original album always appreciated what we did with the technology of the day. The latest version shows what is possible now.” If these tracks weren’t already good enough - armour-wise, then this mean-mother is ready for the front line. The bass-lines are far beefier and the synths sound sharp enough to slash their way out of my speakers. A big sound for a little fella, handled to perfection. If you are un-sure of the importance of the original version of New Forms in music history, you should know the year it won the Mercury prize (the most respected music award in the UK) it was up against the likes of Radiohead’s ‘Ok Computer’ and Prodigy’s ‘Fat of the Land’, to name but a few. So how’d you like them apples?!
10/10 Marky B Funk
10-Mar-2008
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Dig Lazarus Dig!!! (Mute)
The press release with this album asks, “other than Cave and the Bad Seeds who else can we really rely upon during days like these?” When you stick this, their fourteenth album to date, on your iPod, I think you’ll get the point. Once again showing a progression mixed with the past, and then the past before the past, a sexy, controlling and compelling Cave delivers with his usual brilliant predatory style. This album is fun in places, scary in parts and gun-slingingly stylish throughout. In a similar way to me trying to explain to my mum how something can be cool and hot all at the same time, ‘DIG, LARUARUS, DIG!!!’ is both loose and tight in both senses, and all at the same time. Loose in its groove, but tight in its sound; in fact, as tight as a band who have recorded over fourteen albums together. This time around though, another new sound-bitten direction is investigated and achieved once again to perfection. Truth be known, I’m not even that much of a Nick Cave fan - I mean I like his stuff, but I wouldn’t take a bullet for him. The point is, this is some good, good shit, so if you like your music and claim to friends that you ‘like a bit of everything’, then buy this immediately, as you’ll find it has everything. A real grower, and hard to turn off when it reaches full flow.
8/10 M Buttons
10-Mar-2008
MGMT – Oracular Spectacular (Columbia Records)
MGMT’s meteoric rise in popularity is highlighted by the fact that due to huge demand they have had to fast-track the release of this, their debut album. Accordingly my expectations were slightly high when I was handed Oracular Spectacular and straight away I realised I was listening to something very special. Like so many other bands that have been and gone MGMT draw upon past musical influences (most notably David Bowie it could be said). However, whereas others have tended to produce something that relies on nostalgia rather than creativity, MGMT have created a modern, original and exciting album that discreetly echoes the past rather than tries to replicate it. From the explosive start of Time to Pretend to the funky Electric Feel and all the way to the aptly named Future Reflections, Oracular Spectacular is a reminder that whilst we live in an age where the lifeless music of pro tools is honoured, there are still talented musicians out there offering something with substance and soul; an album that will have you sighing with glee as you realise things really aren’t all that bad. It will be interesting to see the progression of MGMT as such creativity is difficult to reproduce constantly but for now I urge everyone to listen and to cheer the name of MGMT!
9/10 Tommy C
10-Mar-2008
Vincent Vincent and The Villains- Gospel Bombs (E.M.I)
Don your shades and start your car, speed to a dance floor and let your feet go wild. Replace old Roy Orbison and Shadows records with something that harps back to an era of pure music, yet is so much more contemporary. Cool as fuck and dressed up to the nines. The opening track ‘Beast’ is straight out of a Tarantino movie yet to be made, drenched with tequila and staggering through hot plains on the way to a Mexican party. Then comes the adorable ‘Blue Boy’ that sums up any perfect sunny day on the beach with your friends. And the gems just continue throughout without even the hint of a dull moment. The hype was fully justified for this band and the high light of this album is the first single ‘On My Own’, which was the catalyst for all the attention they so much deserved. Be sure to catch them live and make sure your hair is gelled and your jeans are tight and why not just wear those sunglasses that have been kept away since summer, for this album cuts through the rain soaked and Gail blown days of recent like a hot knife through butter.
10/10 Lee Beales
10-Mar-2008
Alkaline Trio - Goddamnit LP
This is Alkaline Trio at their best. Then again so was From Here to Infirmary (2001) Good Mourning (2003) and Crimson (2005). Let’s face it - the Trio are something of a one trick pony. A slightly depraved punk rock pony, but a pony none the less. Nasal voiced Matt Skiba tells the same old dried up and dead stories on almost every song he gives life to. But hey, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? Lyrically, and true to form, there’s a fair share of blasphemy, burning photographs, hitting the bottle and some kind of decay. Yet despite this, Alkaline Trio have never bored me. They’re catchy enough to pull it off, just don’t expect to be able to listen to them for hours on end. It’s most definitely a case of heard one song and you’ve heard them all. This completely re mixed and re mastered version of their first album, marking the 10th year of Trio existence is certainly one for the fans. The album, which has been three years in the making, comes along with new digipak artwork, with two metallic foil inks on the cover, twelve page booklet with rare photos and liner notes, and a 2 hour documentary DVD featuring all the original members of this dark and cynical Chicago three piece. Not bad huh?
7/10 Kelleh
10-Mar-2008
The Mystery Jets - Twenty One (Sixsevenine)
The Mystery Jets have succeeded in recruiting up and coming folk artist, Laura Marling as a guest vocalist on “Young Love”, the first single to be released from the new album; Twenty One. Likened to bands such as The Doves and Muse in respect of their ‘nu-prog’ sound and The Maccabees and The Guillemots for their more acoustic tones, “Young Love” is a taster for good things in the future, most notably owing to the introduction of renowned producer Erol Alkan to The Mystery Jet team. Despite an almost continual change of their line-up, the ‘Mystery Jets’ seem to have succeeded in perfecting their sound, especially with the introduction of William Lees taking centre stage as vocalist on the track “Young Love” which centres around the highs and lows of a one night stand, a duet in many cases from two perspectives that although already fairly sturdy, benefit enormously from the added feminine touch as the introduction of Marling shapes the track and gives it that extra ‘zsa zsa zsu’. Although we are presented with the work of yet another indie band among the masses, the Mystery Jets succeed in proving that they know their stuff and will not disappoint if this is an example of things to come.
7/10 MaddyRose
10-Mar-2008
Slyde – Everyone’s Entitled To Our Opinion (Finger Lickin’ Records)
Slyde – some sort of bird? Some sort of plane? Or simply a dynamic duo that produce music heavily influenced by hip-hop, rave, big beat and ‘electrifying’ break beats? Well if you answered C you are obviously correct, the chances of a bird or a plane being reviewed on this page are relatively slim (although a nature / aviation review page is long overdue). First impressions of ‘Everyone’s Entitled To Our Opinion’ are good - the breaks are unpinned with a heavy bass, which is always a winner. However, some of the tracks remind me of Groove Armada and Goldfrapp. I don’t mean to put anyone off but some tracks are frustratingly ruined by crappy vocal samples. For example, on track 10 (Noodle Express) the sample ‘you was out last night frying up your brain again’ is repeated throughout. What is that honestly supposed to mean, and why the hell was it included on an already great track? Anyway, it is not all bad, in fact some of the tracks are rather good – it is just a shame it could have been a lot better without Gold Frapp-like singers and sh*tty samples. Saying that, the entire album does have a commercial element, which makes me think it will be popular.
Tommy dog 5/10
10-Mar-2008
Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly. - Searching For The Hows And Whys (Atlantic Records)
‘Let The Journey Begin!’ proclaims the first track of this album – and what a musical journey it is. ‘Searching For The Hows and Whys’ is the second album from GCWCF, a.k.a. 21-year-old Sam Duckworth. This new offering draws on the same emo/indie fusion that made debut ‘The Chronicles of a Bohemian Teenager’ such a critical success (it made both Q and NME’s top 100 albums of the year in 2006, and two tracks from the album appeared on teen favourite The O.C.), but moves away from the simplistic guitar and laptop approach employed previously, instead embracing a full orchestral backing with a giant musical hug. ‘Searching For…’ is really a mixed bag of different directions and musical gems, from the beautiful ‘Postcard From Catalunya’ (a track reminiscent of the late Elliot Smith) to a duet with touring partner and Radio 1 favourite Kate Nash in ‘Better Things’. And then there is the brilliant ‘The Children Are (The Consumers Of) The Future’, a tune inspired by one of the many scenes in Sex and the City where Carrie decides shoes are the answer to her many emotional problems. GCWCF has taken a massive leap forward with this album, producing a solid and enjoyable effort. For a taste of what to expect, find the time to download the new single titled, erm, ‘Find The Time’. You won’t regret it.
8/10 Max Vealocity
10-Mar-2008
Chris T-T – Capital (Xtra Mile Recordings)
Those who follow my reviews at least pseudo-religiously, which I think is probably just me, will know that one of the last bands I reviewed had a glowing press release which turned out to be a pack of filthy lies. Well, suffice it to say that Chris T-T, fresh off Xtra Mile’s Xtra long production lines with the third and final part of his ‘London Trilogy’, has a glowing press release. In fact, Mr T-T himself stares up at me in lithograph from it, a suitable mug to attribute to the caustic drawl which I soon discover pervades the album. Another thing I discover about the album is this – that it’s pretty bloody good. Despite the opening track being a true belter, the album doesn’t seem to be doing too much at first, giving me two subsequent songs hinting at an overall mediocre record. It’s only when the sinister acapella introduction to Black Music, reminiscent of the late Syd Barrett, kicks in, that I realised how wrong I’ve been. The lyrics are superb; brazen, understated poetry tackling the big lyrical beasts without dealing with them too heavy-handedly. The music is playful and eclectic, with elements of electronica, folk, psychedelia and even jazz. Almost all of the choruses you could belt out at a gig, club or on a drink-soaked evening in, giving a solid backbone of the album an anthemic potential. Regretfully, after the post-track-three boom, the songs deteriorate in the final few cuts – though the album still ends on a thundering, decisive note with the closing ‘check me out, I’m chuggy as fuck’ guitars, and as it cuts to an abrupt silence the overall feeling remains very much one of having spent forty minutes or so of your life really rather well.
7/10 Benny Face
10-Mar-2008
Operator Please – Yes Yes Vindictive (Brille Records)
Signed in the UK to the small indie label that can do no wrong this year, Brille Records, Operator Please actually hail from Australia, formed of four schoolmates who are yet to reach the age of 20 respectively. Doing it for the kids, they’ve already released the nonsensical but hugely infectious “Just a Song About Ping Pong”, all guitar chugging, hand clapping and bouncing around, the equally as energetic, but slightly more sensitive “Leave it Alone”, where lead singer Amandah Wilkinson gets to show off her vocals a bit more and we get treated to some delicate notes of violin from Taylor Henderson, and “Get What You Want”, conducted by its nasty, commanding bass line and aggressive chants by Wilkinson. These three songs alone earmark a diamond of an album, yet the rest of the album continues to delight. There are calmer, more subtle moments, like with “Two for My Seconds”; saccharine sweet vocals and lilting instrumentation, and the melancholy “Pantomime”, which eases in each band member’s talents sensitively and to brilliant effect. Operator Please approach each of their songs with energy, humour (the line “I wish I could feed you some Ritolin – maybe then I’d get a reaction” is devilish) and understanding. And I listen with a huge smile on my face.
9/10 Emu Robot
17-Mar-2008
Elbow : The Seldom Seen Kid (Fiction Records)
The innovative Elbow return with fourth studio album, ‘The Seldom Seen Kid’, their most personal record to date. Named in tribute to Manchester songwriter Bryan Glancy, who died in 2007, ‘The Seldom Seen Kid’ sees Elbow develop substantially as a group, with this being the first album produced and mixed entirely by the band themselves. Without a doubt, ‘Grounds For Divorce’ is the albums stand-out track by a mile. As Guy Garvey’s fantastic vocals open with “I’ve been working on a cocktail called Grounds for Divorce”, this wonderful Zeppelinesque rock anthem centres around Mark Potter’s incredibly addictive guitar riff. If this isn’t stuck in your head after one listen, something is seriously going wrong for you. Lead singer Garvey describes track ‘An Audience With The Pope’ as “a Bond theme if Bond was from Bury and a recovering Catholic”, whilst ‘The Fix’ sees Elbow’s first ever duet as the band team up with baritone crooner Richard Hawley. The album draws to a close with the heartfelt ‘Friend of Ours’ in tribute to the late Glancy. I, like many, was a huge fan of Elbow’s 2001 debut ‘Asleep In The Back’, but must admit to not having followed their subsequent releases. This album, for me, was a welcome reintroduction to a band that continues to evolve and produce exciting music.
7/10 Max Vealocity
24-Mar-2008
Supergrass: Diamond Hoo Ha (Parlophone Records)
Weirdly, until the day I got this CD, I probably hadn’t thought of Supergrass for years. That very same morning, however, I heard ‘Richard III’ on the radio, and was reminded just what a fantastic band they were. Now call that freaky coincidence, call it fate, call it what you will, but by the time I popped this CD into my not-so-ghetto blaster, I was more than ready for some serious Supergrass tunage. And this is exactly what you get in the sixth studio album from one of the quintessential bands of 90s Britpop who have, for whatever reason, managed to outlast virtually all of their contemporaries. Maybe it’s because they continue to have fun with their music - Supergrass have always been a band that enjoys making music and performing, as anyone that has seen them live would no doubt agree. Getting off to a rocking start with ‘Diamond Hoo Ha Man’, one dropkickingly brilliant rock and roll anthem, the new album continues from then on with tune after tune of catchy hooks and memorable melodies, with ‘The Return Of’ being a particular favourite. Stopping in at the UEA in April, ‘Diamond Hoo Ha’ is the sound of a band who clearly are looking to the future, yet at the same time remember what brought them to the dance in the first place.
7/10 Max Vealocity
24-Mar-2008
Panic at the disco – Pretty Odd (Atlantic Records)
Are the members of Panic at the disco going through a cleansing and purging regime? First their bassist in 2006, now the exclamation mark that used to adorn their name. Now you no longer have to ‘Panic!’ at the local dancehall, just feel vaguely anxious instead. Luckily this shrugging off of grammatical accoutrements does not mean a stripped down sound from the band, which will come as a relief to fans of their theatrical and overblown emo(tive) pop-rock. Bundles of horns and strings garnish every song on the album, usually accompanied by lashings of vocal harmonies, expertly led by vocalist Brendan Urie. They are definitely working a homage to the Beatles throughout, a Sgt. Pepper lite experience for today’s teens. The ‘pretty’ of the title is provided by sing-a-longs such as current single ‘Nine in the Afternoon’ as well as the unfailingly cheeky and catchy ‘Pas de cheval’, where Brendan charmingly chirps ‘knowing me-It’s the greatest thing you’d ever imagine.’ Meanwhile odd comes with the slice of twenties speak-easy that comes with the track ‘I have friends in holy spaces’. While more pretty than experimental ‘Pretty Odd’ is a rewarding sophomore album.
7/10 Thea
24-Mar-2
