You could argue that Rob Garza and Eric Hilton haven’t changed their sound a huge amount as Thievery Corporation over the course of five years, but that would be ignoring the fact they take on influences from a huge variety of styles and cultures, their music often shot through with the spirit of revolution and political statement. Radio Retaliation taps in to that same vibe, moulding music from the Middle East, Latin America and Jamaica among others, using some well-chosen guests on the way. Perhaps the highlight is Anoushka Shankar’s contribution to ‘Mandala’, but the other guests – among them Sista Pat, LouLou and Natalia Clavier – all bring something fresh to the table so that the album keeps organic. As ever, it’s suited to both foreground and background listening – though you’ll definitely want the brassier numbers turned up! Make sure you catch them live if you haven’t already – a Thievery gig is a thing to behold, and this new material should transfer extremely well to the live stage.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Ben Hogwood
