Music
20 Mar 01

When We Were Young

Somewhere, possibly despite yourself, you've heard the work of Rollo Armstrong. The co-founder of Faithless, the 'man behind' Felix's 'Don't You Want Me' and a remixer of acts such as New Order, Bjork, U2 and Suede, Rollo is nothing if not a radio, MTV and club friendly man.

This time round, though, things have changed. His debut album in collaboration with ex-Faithless keyboardist Mark Bates under the Dusted banner, strikes out boldly towards new, less commercial territories, where the focus is on subtle, spaced-out beats, dreamy undercurrents and trancey effects.

According to the press release, Armstrong's intended effect was to create a mood of grandeur. Unfortunately, When We Were Young too often comes down on the side of blandness.

Guest vocalist Rachel Brown is one of the major weaknesses. Against sweepingly orchestral movements and Massive Attack-like rhythms, she sings powerfully but in a manner that is utterly without character. The result is that 'Time Takes Time' sounds tailor-made for a car advertisement, while 'Winter' is pretty but forgettable.

Lyrically, Dusted don't do themselves any favours either. On 'Under the Sun' Brown sings, "It's an amazing world/Full of beautiful people/Living their lives under the sun". Such glib statements would be better suited to a Martine McCutcheon release.

The record does have its better phases. The choirboy's vocals on first single 'Always Remember to Respect and Honour Your Mother Part 1' are achingly lovely, while guest vocalist Luke Garwood sings in a wry tone that imbues the lyrics with grit and fire. 'Always Remember to Respect Your Mother Part 2' and 'Oh, How Sweet' are glorious in parts thanks to this fusion of Garwood's sharp vocals with hauntingly dreamy soundscapes.

Too often, though, When We Were Young is background music without bite. Less than essential listening.