Crazy Penis! There’s a name that you won’t forget in a hurry - and it comes as no surprise that their music is just as catchy as their name. The group initially consisted of DJs Jim Baron and Chris Todd but has just recently undergone an upgrade which sees the addition of bass guitarist Tim Davies, percussionist May and vocalist Danielle Moore, bringing about a change in direction for this, their second album.

The opening track There’s A Better Place (better known as The Chocolate Factory Song as it cleverly utilises a sample from the movie) is getting major radio play around Australia, giving an indication of how good it is. Crammed full of funky basslines and guitar hooks, it’ll be sure to get the ‘repeat’ treatment on your stereo.

Having Moore on vocals has now added an extra dimension to the group (previous releases had been instrumental with some cameos) as she struts her stuff on the upbeat You Started Something as well as the delightfully smooth and sultry Keep On. Helping co-write the lyrics to most of the songs has proved her a worthy and versatile acquisition to the group.

Meanwhile, tracks such as the jazz-funk infused Soul Mutation and 70s disco influence on Bad Dismount make some deliciously groovy instrumentals which are mostly recorded using live instruments with fewer samples being incorporated. Change and Beautiful People seem to draw influence from early Stevie Wonder recordings and even sees the mainstay of Baron & Todd get into the action as they provide vocals of their own over the top of some laid back Rhodes piano and sweeping string choruses. The similarly-paced Give It Up continues the whole cruisey vibe, seeing Moore back on vocals as well as being joined by a sexy saxophone.

So if beautiful house music is your thing and you’re not fazed by the ‘P’ word then I suggest giving this a listen: I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Matthew Hall

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