Surprise

It is always astonishing to find something in the last place you would think to look. Like when you put down your keys somewhere unusual. You check all the usual spots, then you check all the possible spots like under that scarf someone left on the counter, but it always ends up in an obvious spot.

This has been a wonderful week, full of food and good company. All leading up to the Summer Solstice, the eve of which is tomorrow. The first half of summer was full of fun, and this second half is looking like it will be full of joy. Life works out in surprising and wonderful ways sometimes.

ALBUM REVIEW: Animal Magic - Bonobo

Album: Animal Magic
Artist: Bonobo
Year: 2001
Genre : Electronic / Downbeat

Favorite Track: The Plug

This album is not amazing, but it is a pretty solid debut. Though the intro track, named “intro” quite aptly, seems a bit too long. Perhaps I am just one who prefers a song at the start rather than some words with a 6 second beat looping. Once the on the album gets going however, it is very easy listening and maintains a very nice feeling throughout.

The tracks “Dinosaurs” and “Shadowtricks” seem to make the biggest departs from the rest of the album. Though, “Dinosaurs” is much more successful with a sound very similar to that of Amon Tobin (who is unsurprisingly under the same label). “Shadowtricks” on the other hand just feels a bit too slow and moody.

The sitar makes an appearance in a few of the tracks, the most beautiful example being “Terrapin” with its soothing melody. “Sugar Rhyme” is another stand out track, though featuring the sitar much less, because of its almost hip-hop beat blending just right with the vocal samples.

“The Plug” wins out for my pick of the album. It is a relaxing track with just enough complexity to stay interesting instead of just turning into background sound. Complexity is what the album as a whole lacks though. It is very easy listening, wonderful background music for a relaxed party, but overall it is just good not great.

Rating: 4 of 5