:: Halfway Between The Gutter And The Stars

Fatboy Slim

It’s been a much-anticipated album. Apart from the album cover making its own interpretation of the album title, we could rightfully suggest that Fatboy Slim (Norman Cook) is searching for his rightful place in music’s big marketplace in terms of credibility. There seems a more sophisticated edge in the album, with very funky and eclectic house music sure to be appreciated by his many fans. There are less of his previous big beat sounds and moves beyond the dance floor limits to take us on down-paced, soulful excursions. In his desire to capture the live feel, he called upon Macy Gray to provide her writing and singing prowess on “Love Life”, a gritty, funky sound, and “Demons”, a cool collaboration that works well, no doubt suiting Macy’s fans immensely. Then there is “Sunset (Bird Of Prey)”, based on a beautiful, soft Jim Morrison vocal kicking over a house riff. It’s a treat. Bootsy Collins delights with an entertaining “Weapon Of Choice”. The use of the live vocalists is something Fatboy has wanted to do for a while, as long as he had the right people. He chose well on this occasion. Because of the variety of sounds, it could take some a few listens to adjust but Fatboy Slim’s wavelength is still addictive and attractive. Tracks such as “Retox” and “Star 69” provide the tougher backbone of Fatboy’s musical mind and they will be strong dance floor tracks. Overall, there is a terrific mix of dance cultures that should draw new listeners, and he still sets a benchmark for many DJs to consider. Most would go nuts in trying to create stuff like this.