...according to our Business Lady on Thu 03 Mar, 2011.
I'm struggling with this James Blake business. Obviously the lad's everywhere right now and the hype machine is more than likely to crush him before he really gets of the ground. Still, that's not my problem is it? I got my own problems and frankly James Blake ain't helping me much with 'em. Anyway, review review review. Decided I should get my obligatory J.B review out of the way (we'll be taking it in turns dependent on the amount of singles they attempt and squeeze out of this sucker debut) and I guess I've lucked out as I reckon 'The Wilhelm Scream' is probably the better of the tracks on his self-titled debut and the best example of his earnest soul vocal meets sparse, emotive coffee table electronics trademark he's been busy pioneering (?). I can just about bear this one without wanting to smash the office stereo into a thousand pieces so that must be something, right? Flip it and you get two more white soul players that will, more likely than not, be enjoyed by anyone currently salivating over his current output.
“Startling… the missing link between Burial, The XX and Feist.” Q
‘A stunning hybrid of sparse electronics… and his devastating voice.
He’s a master of solitude, befitting indeed of a man who currently exists in a class of one.’ NME
Having secured the #2 spot in this year’s BBC Sound Poll, been tipped as one to watch by anyone with ears, and with excitement for his debut album reaching fever pitch, 2011 is shaping up pretty nicely for James Blake.
The first offering of the vocalized Blake magic came with ‘Limit To Your Love’ in November, which opened up a whole new world. Still sitting on the Radio 1 B list, LTYL established this young composer as the most exciting thing to be born from the electronica scene in years.
The Wilhelm Scream follows on 7 March, and once again its wonder and beauty lies in its sparseness. Its layers grow as it creeps up on you resulting in a joyous assault on your senses, enveloping you in both warmth and sadness.
Throughout the album, James’s dance floor influences married with his exceptional voice makes for the perfect paring in pop for a new generation. Refreshing, invigorating and endlessly emotional, the silences are as important as the beats. ‘James Blake’ breaks the rules with conviction and by daring to be different James stands head and shoulders above his peers.
12"
A. The Wilhelm Scream
B1. What Was It You Said About Luck
B3. Half Heat Full (Old Circular)
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