Music Reviews
Alan Hull - Phantoms
Market Square RecordsAlan Hull solo release in 1970 for Rocket Records reissued for the first time on CD. Here there are 10 tracks from what was his third solo album 'Phantoms' although, as the sleeve notes point out, six had already been released on the Radiator album 'Isn't It Strange' then we get 4 tracks from the aforementioned Radiator album with the package completed by five bonus demos from 1975. A great songwriter who had the capacity to write catchy pop songs as well as address less lightweight subject matter . The albums twelve page booklet features extensive notes and previously unpublished photos.
PermalinkGraham Radley, 08/07
Alice Russell - My Favourite Letters
Tru Thoughts RecordingsHow time flies when you having fun. I cannot believe that Russell is releasing her second album, when it seems like only a few months since "Under The Munka Moon" dropped. Russell has been recording guest vocals left, right and centre but I'm still not tired of one of the UK's finest vocalists, in fact I want more. You don't really need me to tell you this is an excellent album because we always knew it was going to be. So stop reading this, get out there and buy a copy.
Simon Harrison, 08/05
Alice Russell - Under The Munka Moon II
Tru Thoughts RecordingsHere's one album that sneaked under the radar and one you may have missed. It's not the second album from Russell but a collection of remixes, collaborations and a few live tracks thrown in for good measure. The thing that really surprised me was that Russell sang on Susumu Yokota's anthem "Could Heaven Ever Be Like This", proving I never read the information on my records, and it's one I've dug out again. This album really goes to prove how much versatility Alice has. There's the hiphop remix by DJ Vadim, drum and bass mixed by Nu:Tone and of course The White Stripes cover of "Seven Nation Army". The live versions of "Mean to Me" and "To Know This" are beautiful and do check out the tracks with Unforscene, TM Juke and Bonobo. Class.
Simon Harrison, 09/06
Alif Tree - Clockwork
Compost RecordsAlif tree’s previous release “French Cuisine” was one of the underground highlights of 2006. So it is with great pleasure to listen to his latest release “Clockwork”. While the compositions on “French Cuisine” displayed a jazz vibe throughout, “Clockwork” expands on that sound by adding more electronic, folk and blues flavored tunes that feel more personal. The opening track “Aurevoir” embodies some of the jazz elements of the previous release. The dark tone and haunting piano riffs create an eerily peaceful atmosphere that is very engaging. “Never be the same” is a mid-tempo acoustic treat with vocals. “Que Tu” is a somber yet engaging trip-hop flavored track laced with strings that creates a cinematic twist. The album closes with the exceptional “Dead Flowers”, a melodic ethereal track that is similar to the opening track. Alif Tree succeeds in producing an excellent follow up that will do more than satisfy his fans. This is a record that should be enjoyed as a whole and not the sum of its parts. I trust that you will not be disappointed.
Reg Dancy, 03/09
Alison Crockett - Bare
Sol ImageDevoted followers of the underground soul movement certainly are familiar with Alison Crockett. Her debut "On Becoming A Woman" was one of the highlights of 2004. She followed that with a remixed version of the aforementioned in 2006. On her latest release, Alison has crafted a intimate, acoustic arrangement that will have you wishing you were seated at your favorite restaurant with your significant other, immersed in a night of great music. Alison serenades you not only with her deep and exquisite voice, but she's equally comfortable at the piano as well. As evidenced on the moving ballad "How Deep Is Your Love", Alison's jazz singing background is on display. On the romantic "We Are", where Alison sets the mood with the opening verse (I'm in the mood for expansion, seeing my love in new ways, you came along and went with me, for a trip exploring). Alison's lush vocal arrangements creates a warm and peaceful atmosphere. The bubbly "So Sweet" has Alison in a joyful mood reflecting on a gentleman she has just met. On Sade's "Love Is Stronger Than Pride" Alison picks a song that sounds as though it was written for her and does a fabulous job. This is a diva who has proven she can sing in any genre and doesn't have the exposure she rightfully deserves. "Bare" is indeed a romantic journey and Alison has extended an invitation to anyone willing to take the ride. I'm certain that you won't be disappointed.
Reg Dancy, 12/07
Alison Krauss - A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection
Rounder Records16 track 'Collection' which brings together tracks which have never before appeared on an Alison Krauss album including material from off soundtracks (eg 'Down To The River To Pray' from the 'O Brother Where Art Thou' soundtrack) and five previously unreleased tracks. There are duets with Sting, Brad Paisley, James Taylor, John Waite and my particular favourite her vocal/fiddle duet with Natalie MacMaster of 'Get Me Through December'.
Graham Radley, 05/07
Amalia - Art Slave
Tokyo Dawn RecordsHaving apprenticed with the likes of the band Sekoya and the soulful dance grooves of producer Opolopo, songstress Amalia is ready to spread her wings with her funk deluxe debut “Art Slave”. With production mainly from Opplopo excluding the remixes by AtJazz, AD Bourke and Son Of Kick, “Art Slave” is inspired by the 80’s electro soul period and there are several tracks that will transport you to that era. Among the highlights are the sensuous synth-funk “Welcome To Me”. “Luxurious” will conjure memories of Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” courtesy of Opolopo’s wicked synth work. Amalia cools down just a bit and blends a little ballad into the funky “All The Funk I need”. “Zebra Butt” is a mid-tempo bass driven funk jam that receives an assist from rapper Probe DMS. If you can’t live on funk alone there’s the Opolopo Nu swing remix of “Life’s A Dance” that will quench the soulful dance thirst you’ve come to expect from her. Overall, “Art Slave” is an energetic coming out party for the lady with the siren voice. If you long for some 80’s funk with a little new jack swing mixed in, you’ll certainly enjoy this.
Reg Dancy, 03/11
Ammoncontact - New Birth
Ninja TuneCarlos Niño is proving a very busy man at the moment This is his second Ammoncontact album in only six months and he's also behind such quality projects like Build An Ark and Dwight Trible. Yes that's a serious amount of music to release in a short space of time but this just proves how talented Niño is. Here we have 10 instrumental tracks spread over two slabs of vinyl; some labels could do with learning from this. You can hear some of Niño's influences from jazz to funk and soul all within the heavy grooved based production, with basslines that shake your boots. As a bonus there is the excellent Build An Ark "Temple Jam" that featured on the Dublab Presents In The Loop 2 12" from earlier in the year. It's worth it for that track alone.
Simon Harrison, 06/05
Amon Tobin - The Foley Room
Ninja TuneNinja Tune have been very busy of late but it's one label over the years that constantly stick to what they are good at and that's releasing quality music. OK not everything maybe your thing but if you give your attention, everything is nothing short of excellent. Amon Tobin is one such artist who may not sell albums by the truckload but he does make good quality and well produced music. Not many labels would have the balls to release this album but that's one of the things Ninja does well. I've been struggling to put pen to paper and describe "The Foley Room" but it's somewhere between Dimlite, Matthew Herbert and The Cinematic Orchestra. If the thought of that has you slavering at the mouth, you will thoroughly enjoy this ace soundtrack. There may be sections where you scratch your head but keep going because it'll all make sense once you reach the final track.
Simon Harrison, 02/07
Amp Fiddler - Afro Strut
Genuine RecordsAfter much anticipation Amp Fiddler's sophomore set is finally with us. 'Right Where You Are', 'Faith' and 'Dope' from the limited edition 10"s are all included on the vinyl but unfortunately the latter is omitted from the CD version. On first listen it's these tracks that standout but by the second play it becomes apparent there are more gems contained within. 'Ridin'', an uplifting Philly disco influenced track is certainly one of the highlights for me along with the old school stepper 'Heaven' featuring Stephanie McKay and 'Hustle' a stunning sensual Marvin-esque piece with strings provided by Larry Gold.
Andy Allen, 09/06