Craig Armstrong - The Space Between Us (Melankolic) In this world torn between the obsession of superficial imagery and blind faith in brands, The Space Between Us should sell like hot cakes. Clothed in a translucent plastic sleeve and released by the label run by none other than cool Massive Attack, this record's appearance was spot-on.
Not convinced by such face values? Hear it and one shall second the motion that the cover perfectly illustrates the music within. Long-time collaborator of the Massive Attack posse, distinguished keyboardist and composer of many a splendid soundtrack - last year's Romeo & Juliet, for example - Craig Armstrong sprinkles this release with atmospheric-orchestrated epics and trip-hop pieces with a classical edge.
Doing classical was Armstrong's forte, and this release showcases his ability. Either reworking Massive Attack's Weather Storm and Sly (now in the guise of Sly II ) into swirling strings-laden piano-tinkling symphonies, or filling up his own compositions, Armstrong inserted emotions so heart-gripping they amount to bliss.
With Massive Attack's new release coming up, The Space Between Us could deservedly stake a claim as its classical companion.
- Neil Frame James Iha - Let It Come Down (Virgin) Smashing Pumpkins' guitarist James Iha takes a brave step outside the fold to make a solo album; it is a pity then that discretion might have proved the better part of musical valour here, because away from the direction of Pumpkins' 'dictator' Billy Corgan all the listener gets is a limp collection of soggy ballads aimed at some lost love.
It would be neat and tempting to speculate that the object of Iha's desires was Pumpkins' bassist D'Arcy Wretsky, but their intra-band dalliance was six years ago and, anyway, she sings on the record.