Dynamite

Lyrically the songs have matured; some emotionally deep, some relaxed and balanced, the more upbeat numbers well fused together ('Starchild' being a certain classic) and in the case of 'World That He Wants' politically inspiring. Instrumentally the songs are rich and varied, layered with soul, funk, jazz, electro and even reggae: 'Black Devil Car' an adrenaline pumped track perfect for the car, while 'Seven Days In Sunny June' (my personal favourite) suited beautifully to a chilled out summers afternoon.

My only criticism of the album is that some tracks feel over produced, in particular with 'Electric Mistress' and 'Dynamite', mixing JK's voice with synthesisers and backing singers; personally something completely unnecessary as he has such a beautiful singing voice.

But this really is the only criticism of the album, and with further listening I'm sure they'll grow on me. Other than that the album truly is faultless and is destined to be a hit, to be played in my car for a very long time! Bring on the September tour!!

Classic Jamiroquai tracks on "Dynamite" include the amazing first single to be lifted from it, "Feels just like it should", as well as "(Don't) Give hate a chance", "Hot tequila brown" and "Time won't wait", with their instantly recognisable funky bass sequences and their ability to get the listener's feet tapping mightily. Indeed, the album's title track is an irresistable slice of disco that would make an ideal dancefloor filler, rather than all those irritating dance tracks around nowadays, and the fantastic "Starchild" boasts the funkiest intro I have ever heard in a song.

There are, however, a variety of songs included here that are somewhat different in style to Jamiroquai's custom, although the funk element is thankfully forever present. "Seven days in sunny June" is a wonderful, piano and acoustic guitar led track that was a great single choice from the album, and "Love blind" is more laid-back than the majority of Jamiroquai's previous songs. "Talullah" also follows this lead, but it is a pleasant jazzy number sprinkled with flute and saxophone melodies, and provides a great change of direction in the middle of the album. The most curious track here is undoubtedly "World that he wants", a mysterious ode to the actions of George W. Bush, which Jay Kay clearly resents, and again gives the listener something different to appreciate, the only instruments accompanying Mr Kay's heartfelt vocals being a piano and a string section.

In my opinion, every track featured on "Dynamite" is incredible, but the remaining two tracks are my favourites. "Electric mistress" is even funkier than its fellows, if that is possible, and is a synth bonanza that instantly captivated my attention, while "Black devil car", with its playful lyrics and catchy chorus, has also embedded itself in my catalogue of classics, so to speak. Both of these tracks are representative of why this group's albums have sold so well over the years; Jamiroquai cover every genre of music and every possible subject, and yet still manage to emphasise their funk roots. This band just seems to appeal to everyone, and rightly so.

In short, if you are looking for an explosive work of musical genius, look no further than "Dynamite".