We Love You... So Love Us Too

London label We Love You displays its impeccable taste with this charming compilation of easygoing songs from some of the finest indie artists working in 2001. From organic folk-pop to electronica to baggy sounds inspired by Madchester, the album showcases We Love You's eclectic tastes while remaining a cohesive listen. Strewn out across the 15 tracks are immensely enjoyable songs from I Am Kloot, Alfie, Tahiti 80, the superb Beta Band side project King Biscuit Time, Bomb the Bass, Ladytron, Zoot Woman, and J. Xaverre. The contributions from U.K. artists I Am Kloot and Alfie should be enough to send many listeners scrambling to find their albums. Alfie's "You Make No Bones," taken from the band's debut, If You Happy With You Need Do Nothing, sounds like a jam session between the Rolling Stones, the Stone Roses, and the Charlatans UK. King Biscuit Time's "I Walk the Earth" proves that the Beta Band's Stephen Mason is a mad genius. Bomb the Bass' "Fast" is one of the best driving songs of all time, blending sweeping electronic sounds with My Bloody Valentine-style harmonies and cool vocals from Shawn Lee. While each song might not become a personal favorite for every listener, the standout songs are so good and the laid-back tone is so consistent that We Love You...So Love Us Too easily earns a place among 2001's top compilations. ~ Tim DiGravina|