Special Forces

I should really have kicked things off with something a bit more d.i.s.c.o., however this stunning album has been on my stereo more than most during this cold snap, and really needs a wider audience.



I must admit I had almost given up on Planet Mu after a rash of releases by the likes of Venetian Snares, Hellfish and Shitmat that have been verging on the unlistenable. However as a longtime fan of Mike 'U-Ziq' Paradinas I've stuck with them....and this masterpiece is the reward. The wintery scene on the album cover is certainly in keeping with the music inside - which is hard to describe without using words like 'glacial' or 'icy' - however I get a sense from listening that the ice is beginning to melt, and spring is on it's way. There is a sense of hope and optimism that you often find in music that seems superficially melancholy.... in common with Fane's obvious influences Radiohead and Sigur Ros.

Although I originally thought this track, Safety Man, was the best on the album i'm not so sure now. It's probably the most immediate though, so close your eyes and enjoy. For tomorrow we dance.

Julian Fane - Safety Man

If you like this track, please leave a comment - and please buy the record. If you didn't like it, leave a comment anyway...and come back tomorrow.