Bodysong [Enhanced] [Soundtrack]

Fans expecting to do the same will be disappointed in a sense, in that this record is not at all a pop record. Rather, its an amolgum of jazz, synthes, and tribal music. There are no lyrics, this album is fused together (the one thing consistent with the Radiohead records) in such a way that one is never really certain where the track breaks are. Which is fine. Judging from what I know of the film, a mapping of the human condition, there are similarly never any concrete breaks in the lifecycle, so the approach is consistent with the story line.

Ultimately, I think this is a record that will want to make people see the film, will satisfy Radiohead fans, and will get better with more and more listenings.

Sound familiar?

And because I just cannot resist the temptation- this album is one part Lurgee, one part National Anthem, and many parts the Kid A era B-sides.

on first listen i didnt know what to expect. a hybrid of guitars/computers/violins/trumpets/tapes maybe? well, i think that almost hit the spot...the songs are based around classical pieces, ambient sounds and chaotic free jazz improv. so there is quite a broad range of sounds here. the first piece [moon trills] is really simple but beautiful piano led piece, with violins sneaking around quietly. but then cut to track six [convergance] and your are treated to a percussion frenzy...a simple beat gradually gets covered in loads of instruments all beating out what seems like a random and chaotic drone.but you realise that there is order to the piece...and as things progress and the track gets louder but more ordered. its very very simple..but its stunning and incredibly well arranged. its things like this that really catch your ear and force you to listen.

there are so many little things about this album that are fantasticly well written and thought out..but somehow its not the sort of thing that is comfortable to listen to.the nearest thing i can think of to this is the montréal collective set fire to flames. but even then it is nothing like that. its far noiser...the whole album is noisy. from the crazed jazz sections to the dark organ pieces. but then there is a little pop sensibility too... there really is a huge range of ideas and sounds and feelings here. just well hidden.

a special mention must be given to the artwork. im not a fan of the jewel case. its horrible..and so i dont like the packaging..but.the artwork is really really good. stanly donwood has again done some brilliant scribbles and blobs. it really works well with the idea [uhm.body..] of the album. but please..next time use something instead of the jewel case! [i know im just rambling, but i just wanted to say how i felt].

so in all fairness this is a beautifully loved and played piece of work by an absolute sonic genius. but it is hard going and it does take time to get into...im still not sure what i think and half of this may just be what i feel now..tomorrow it could be different...