Yeah Ghost

Studio mainstays for well over a decade, Zero 7's Henry Binns and Sam Hardaker can wring an expert production from nearly any song, whether it's synth-based or band-based, instrumental or vocal, unadulterated pop or colored with some other genre shade thereof. Their fourth album as Zero 7 includes all of those approaches, so file it as another in a career of ever-evolving records that have moved them from chilled downbeat into dynamic alternative pop. A dedicated rhythm section appears on half the record, accentuating the feel that this is a band record -- albeit impeccably produced -- with an array of guests taking vocal turns. As before, the songs are written well and the guest vocalists are selected with care, but they're usually overwhelmed by the numerous production touches. Each song is a variation on the pop form, whether it's straight commercial pop on "Mr McGee," neo-soul on "Medicine Man," folkie introspection on "Swing," or starburst electronica on "Pop Art Blue." The best and most natural blend occurs on "Everything Up (Zizou)," which has a bit of indie guitar over its sheen of electronic pop, with vocals from Binns himself and the most impressive of the guests, Eska (who sings over five tracks total). Though Zero 7 are still not in the same class as Air (or even Phoenix), Yeah Ghost is an enjoyable record that shows them apparently on the way to something more unique. ~ John Bush

ロンドンの人気プロデューサー2人組による4作目。これまで彼らに対して〈ダークな歌ものダウンテンポ〉というイメージを抱いていましたが、メイン・ヴォーカルが入れ替わったことも相まってハッピーな曲が多くなった気も。マーサ・ティルソンをゲストに迎えて我流のアシッド・フォークを披露するなど、奔放さと好奇心の触手があちこちに伸びており、まったく手に負えませんね。より間口の広がった、手堅く良い作品。
bounce (C)大久保洋二