Released
8-99

Label
Astralwerks

Reviewed by
James Grahm

Visit
Astralwerks

Last Edit/Update
04 October, 1999

Basement Jaxx

Remedy

     Something seems to be amiss down Brixton way. Renowned London house producers Basement Jaxx have delivered their long anticipated debut album and well, it's really kinda dull. The Jaxx can deliver, there's no doubt about that, just look at their previous classic singles "Fly Life" and 'Samba Magic" for proof. But with "Remedy' they seem to be trying just a little too hard, the production seems flat and un-energetic and when they boys stretch away from house they tend to lose the plot completely as shown by the Timbaland biting r&b of "U Can't Stop Me". There are some bright spots here though, singles "Red Alert and the Flamenco guitar tinged "Rendez-Vu" are definite floor fillers. MC Slaughta John's ragga tinged madness causes "Jump N' Shout" to explode while the soulful sounds of Monday Michiru make "Always Be There" a heavenly treat. But besides these four cuts only the dark drone of 'Don't Give Up" really stands out amongst a sea of boring beats. The duo have admitted that their goal was to approach the true house sounds of Mr. fingers and other old school producers with this album and while they are certainly on their way there, it may require a little more time down the studio (or the pub) before they finally reach their goal.