Simon Green's first album as a full blown Ninja, and it's a mighty record. Respect is due to Bonobo for his wealth of melodic ideas and dynamic range of tones, and he's definitely proven himself over the years. As a multi-instrumentalist, Bonobo often captures live elements generated by himself and this album impresses with the spaciousness and communication of a live band. The whole album is a "standout track," but we've selected the bounciest of the album: "Flutter," "D Song," "Nothing Owed," "Wayward Bob," "Light Pattern" and "Pick Up" (hope you copped that 10-inch). At the very least, these songs just make you forget yourself, make you wanna reach out to people by making long, intrusive eye contact on the subway, make you wanna do the Thriller dance slow in your living room naked with the lights on so the neighbors can watch. It will enhance whatever trouble your imagination gets you into in your spare time. Inspirational. 9 songs on double vinyl.

• black double vinyl pressing
• original release year: 2003
• music label: Ninja Tune 2011

reviewed by P Gorgeous 09/2009