Correlations is the long time project of Brighton’s own Neil Hale. Neil has done loads of brilliant stuff both within and without CiS, and I would please request that you have a look at correlations1.bandcamp.com. I’ve asked him for loads of stuff that he won’t give me, so go there and get a tonne of more superb music. He’s good at this. I have it on good authority that he’s got his hands on a Korg megasynth and might be working on Hot Pots 2. I’m quite stoked at the prospect of that.
He hasn’t given me any blurb for the LP, preferring that I did it. So what I can tell you is that I’ve opened an tin of IPA and am going to give you a stream of consciousness review IN REAL TIME as I listen to the album.
Strap in.
1. Keep It Light Yeah.
Missing a comma there Neil, so I’m assuming that was an artistic decision.
What we get is a beautifully constructed track bringing in a lovely vocal sample. And listen to those beats. Correlations is so good at this stuff. On the verge of a massive pop banger, but still a bit housey. Also listen to those hi hats. This is Neil at his impeccable best. Just dropping into the zone of what I love. I could listen to this forever. We should also get out of the way at this early point that Simon James does beautiful mixes throughout the album. Those Brighton lads, eh?
2. So Confusion.
We’re off our heads at The Ministry Of Sound or maybe even The Hacienda. There’s a definite Manchester vibe hanging in the ether with this one. Neil/Simon also bringing the joy on the mix. Those punchy snares are calling my legs to get up and do something. Wouldn’t be the first time I’ve been Dad dancing around the office for suuuure. Nothing else to say. Bangin’ and brilliant.
3. Drawing Maps.
Oh man. I have never got tired of vocal samples used well and here Neil displays his mastery of the art. Just beautiful. Spangly and bright like a lot of Correlations stuff is. Clever and lovely.
4. Gigi.
This one is about Neil’s French girlfriend.*
I will never and can never get out of the headspace where I will not enjoy the pure electronic synthyness of this stuff. Again, Correlations is pulling the beauty from the heart of the machine. He’s so good at dynamics and the build on this one is just exquisite. It’s there for all to hear. Stunning work. Last track on side one and what a way to hit that run out groove.
*Possibly.
5. Over Your Shoulder
The vocal samples are back over a bed of Sunday Morning and dare I suggest, post-hangover-cuddling vibes. This is a warm hug of a track. Twinkly and super keen on wrapping it’s arms around you. Yes please. I’m astounded how Neil can conjure these atmospheres. Sounds a bit Christmassy. Note to self: remember this one for next Christmas.
6. Infinite Scale.
HUGE pads. The world is ending. Or it might be the beginning of a new world. If this is the way we’re going out, then that’s fine with me. The twinkling is back. Drowning in those massive chords. Again, Neil’s arrangement here is something-the-fuck else. It’s a bit overwhelming. I don’t know if I’m feeling joy or sadness. I do know I have goosebumps.
7. Bicycle Boy
OK. The aliens are landing. It’s the noises, yes, of course, but the way the noises are used is so satisfying. We still have a bit of twinkle, so this one sounds beautifully soundtracky. I assume the message for the Bicycle Boy is to GET OFF YOUR BIKE because the aliens are landing. Have you not seen “War Of The Worlds”? You don’t want to end up in a cellar with Tom Cruise. As we progress, the calm descends again. It’s the last magisterial track on this wonderful album.