For his follow-up to 2004’s Blossom debut Sebastian Devaud has obviously decided to stretch out from the lush, melodic techno which cemented his name as one of the music’s more individual, soulful exponents. He still does that with effortless glory – as on tracks like gorgeous ‘Europa’ and pumping single ‘Code 1026’ – but much of the album is a brave attempt to progress via the song medium using the dreaded celeb-guest vocalists. To this end, he digs up former Bauhaus intoner Peter Murphy on the nasty pop of ‘Edenbridge’, Neneh Cherry caresses the Massive Attack-style rumble of ‘Million Miles’ and Princess Superstar gets down and dirty on ‘Lips On Fire’. New French vocalist Sclade also graces two electro-tinged outings. These are fine, if making for a slightly bumpy ride, but it’s still the glorious techno romps like ‘Les Violons Ivres’ which really hoist the soul. Full marks for trying something new though.
4 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Kris Needs
