As it goes with every Basement Jaxx project since Kish Kash, the majority of tracks on Scars are collaborations with artists of varying degrees of fame. Similar producer-helmed albums often result in a disconnected mish-mash (see David Guetta's One Love, as reviewed here), but group-founders Felix Buxton and Simon Ratcliffe always manage to incorporate diverse sounds while still maintaining a sense of cohesion.
Aside from the hitting-too-hard Yo! Majesty collaboration "Twerk", there are few low points on Scars. With that said, you shouldn't be expecting the musical equivalent of a tantric sex session. First impressions may lead you to 'gasm over upbeat tracks like "Raindrops" and Sam Sparro's contribution "Feelings Gone", but the album's more subtle moments are arguably the best.
On "Stay Close", Lisa Kekaula sounds like she birthed sexy before Justin Timberlake even thought of bringing it back. The track sounds like the bastard child of Imogen Heap, Prince and Bill Withers' "Lean On Me". Though it might not sound like it based off of that description, your clothes will practically melt off.
It may sound trite, but Scars has something for everyone–hardcore fans of the group, dance music lovers and so much more. Hip-hop heads will revel over the epic title track, featuring Kelis, Meleka and Chipmunk. Lovers of soul will find solace in Amp Fiddler's sincerity on "A Possibility". And the most amazing part? The duo manages to please all these audiences without sacrificing their own sound. This is a Basement Jaxx album. And a damn good one at that.
– Dewitt
Be the first to reply