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BentAriel Ministry Of Sound/EMI Despite the fact that Triple J has its foundations firmly in "alternative rock", it does still give some reasonable airplay to likeable electronic music. A few years back this included UK Ministry of Sound duo Bent, whose chilled out tracks Always and Swollen brought a breath of fresh air to the play list. These two likely lads are back and again they continue the pattern of drawing from different vocalists, with four different singers featuring on 'Ariel'. Although this album will slot into the chill-out section of your collection, these electronic music maestros are not afraid to incorporate a wide selection of organic instruments including harps, cellos, violas, glockenspiels, flutes and a range of brass, as well as many different synthesizers. Musically the whole album cruises along effortlessly, lifting the worthwhile lyrics from the strong and varied vocalists. For instance, Steve Edwards's sweet vocals in Silent Life are complemented perfectly by the strings layered over the relaxing beats. However, it's the super catchy melody and soaring vocals in Sing Me, that reminds me of the divine sounds of Everything But The Girl. The distinctive vocals of Kosheen's Sian Evan raises the tempo a little with the powerful I Can't Believe Its Over, while Katty Heath's vocals in Now I Must Remember are delightfully sweet, accompanied by gentle percussion and a gorgeous melody that evokes fond memories of St Etienne. If you wished Massive Attack hadn't become so damn dark and you'd prefer some chilled out beats that rely more heavily on organic instruments than electronic synthesisers, then the luscious sounds of 'Ariel' may be just the ticket.  |
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