Album Review: Neil Dexter, I’ll Be Ready

Neil Dexter – formerly of Spies – has re-emerged as a player in the solo electronic-infused musical world. he brings a fresh take to a familiar style. Clearly influenced by the ‘90s sounds of Portishead, Massive Attack, The Cardigans and more, there is nonetheless a joyousness to the way he mixes instruments and musical techniques.

‘Robert Wyatt’ kicks open the door impressively. A tangible ‘80s/’90s vibe permeates ‘Loving You’, its solemn undertones notwithstanding. The tracks are linked by trance-like beats and contagious synth, but it’s the variety of sounds and styles that sets the album apart, with tracks like ‘I’ll Be With You’ emphasising Dexter’s astounding vocal abilities.

Ebbing and flowing from sleepy trance (‘Don’t Question It’) to tribal beats (‘You Make Me Feel’), I’ll Be Ready always returns to its intoxicating synth-soaked electronic essence. ‘Alpha’ – capturing a deeper, masculine energy – brings Chris Isaak into the modern day. And ‘We’ll Be There’, an anthemic combination of Neil and Lola Dexter’s voices, is the perfect climax.

Overall, this is a very fine statement of intent from an outstanding Irish talent.

Listen: ‘Loving You’
Score: 7/10

Out now.

Read more album reviews in the new issue of Hot Press, starring The Coronas.