Ordinary Man

Bristol duo Day One are the latest proteges of the ever-expanding Massive Attack/Wild Bunch circle. Signed by none other than 3D himself, 'Ordinary Man' represents a far sunnier take on the dark, moody soundscapes of trip-hop. One of the titles, 'Bedroom Dancing', says it all - this is fun, unpretentious pop music with an ultra-acessible hip-hop sheen.

It's a shame, therefore, that Day One's rapping is so monotone and flat that you find yourself getting bored half way through the first song. With mainman Phelim Byrne's familial background in the Irish folk scene, you might expect something more melodic.

'Waiting For A Break', 'I'm Doing Fine' and the superbly monikered 'Love On The Dole' put the pop into hip-hop, coming across somewhat like a stoned Beck. However, Ordinary Man does not always scale such heights.

More vocal variation and perhaps having a lash at collaboration would do Day One the world of good. After all, would their mentors and label-mates Massive Attack be the great act they are today without Shara Nelson's contribution to 'Unfinished Sympathy'?