Change is good, just ask Psychonauts. Back in 1996, Psychonauts' only real claim to fame was being fortunate enough to be signed to then-thriving ‘trip-hop’ heavyweight, Mo Wax Records. Their music was a dime a dozen for the time, instrumental hip-hop perfected by labelmate DJ Shadow and influenced by the instrumental sounds of the Beastie Boys and conducive to lots of pot smoking.
Fast-forward seven years later: Mo Wax is virtually out of business, DJ Shadow lost his crown as king of instrumental hip-hop, and Psychonauts come up with one of the most interesting electronic albums of the year. Songs For Creatures is a massive step forward for the production duo of Paul Mogg and Pablo Clements. Retaining few of the elements present in their previous incarnation, this album is a heady mix of dubby, atmospheric workouts, expertly constructed house-tinged beats, and an assortment of guest vocalists that add many new layers never before hinted at.
On "Life’s Swift Charger," Chancer adds a beautiful vocal reminiscent of Underworld and Doves over a synth-y backdrop. Former Beta Bander James Yorkston’s rambling verses on "Hips For Scotland" offer the album’s finest moments with string swells and guitar strumming that lead into an jammy opening that recalls the best moments on Beta Band's The Three EPs LP.
While a good third of the album is rather standard house and electronic filler, Songs For Creatures ultimately satisfies in its objective and gives the world an unexpected new direction by a familiar name.
1. Circles
2. Life's Swift Charger
3. Empty Love
4. Hips For Scotland (feat. James Yorkston)
5. Hot Blood
6. Fear Is Real (feat Siobhan Fahey)
7. Magnetic (feat. Ghost)
8. Distance Between Dreams
9. Dream Chaser
10. World Keeps Turning (feat. Jason Rowe)
11. Take Control (feat. Sam Lynham)
More about: Psychonauts
