James - La Petite Mort (2 LP)
- LP
- 2 piece(s)
- 2014
- 10 tracks
- 45 min
- madchester
La Petite Mort
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5.0
Average of 2 reviews
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James makes a strong comeback with what might just be their most accessible album since the days of "Whiplash" or "Millionaires." Credit must go to producer Max Dingel for giving the band's music a bit of a commercial polish. Tracks like "Frozen Britain," "Moving On," and "Curse Curse" hit you right away with their catchy, fully-formed sound. There's not a wasted note here, not even in the seven-minute opener "Walk Like You," which makes great use of its length. "Moving On," in particular, stands out as one of their best singles yet, holding its own alongside their more well-known hits. The second half of the album takes a slower pace, starting with the brooding "Interrogation" and the reflective "Bitter Virtue." The piano-driven songs towards the end bring us back to classic James territory, a fitting way to wrap up the album. I'd say the songwriting on "La Petite Mort" feels more effortless than on their last couple of mini-albums, maybe even more so than "Hey Ma." Tim Booth's vocals are stunning, and Max Dingel's mixing brings out the best in his voice, adding little touches like echo effects at the end of verses. "Curse Curse," with its almost rave-like vibe, might divide fans, but I think the band pulls it off brilliantly. As others have pointed out, the album's lyrics deal with themes of death, loss, and rebirth, experiences Tim Booth has gone through recently, but it's far from a depressing record; there's plenty of positivity and affirmation too. The album leans into an electronic/dance sound that's been missing from James' music since the late-90s, and Mark Hunter's keyboards really shine. I think revisiting this style has done the band good, bringing an energy that was maybe lacking towards the end of their 2007-10 era with ex-producer Lee 'Muddy' Baker. I don't think they could have made another record like "The Morning After The Night Before" without sounding a bit stale. "La Petite Mort" certainly feels focused, maybe a bit less experimental, but still a worthy addition to James' impressive discography. There's still life in the old dog yet.
James consistently delivers. They provoke thought and stir emotions. Their meticulous approach to songwriting results in genuine artistry. Magnificence and brilliance are found here. It may appear to be just 10 tracks, but be prepared: once you've heard them all, you'll be equally enlightened and astonished. The outcome of an extended jam session is astonishingly remarkable. The skill for both entertainment and emotional expression is encapsulated here in eternal bliss. Keep these melodies on your phone after downloading. They're the ideal companion to help you feel invigorated and rejuvenated. This Cooking Vinyl release is utterly impeccable. A timeless masterpiece like this deserves to be showcased with splendor and grandeur.
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