CD Review
This review was originally written by Jose Bernardo for www.theweeklyriff.com between 2008 and 2010.
These were Jose’s first impressions of the songs and were not written after multiple spins.
Artist: The Prodigy
Album: Invaders Must Die (2009 Take Me to the Hospital/Cooking Vinyl)
Tracks: 11
Artist website: http://www.theprodigy.com
REVIEW OVERVIEW:
This is the fifth studio album from this British electornic music group. It’s quite different from what we’ve reviewed thus far and much to our surprise, we liked it.
We had been previously familiar with The Prodigy hits from 1996 and 1997. We weren’t quite sure what to expect from this album when we started reviewing it. However, it’s quite interesting and we definitely enjoyed it.
The energy is quite high on this album. It definitely rivals some high energy metal we’re used to listening to. We were also surprised how musical this music is and how well it conforms with the rules of music harmony and theory. Unlike some other electronic artist who write “non-sense” these guys manage to keep the music side sensible and that shows musicianship. The Prodigy has definitely earned our respect for that.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stand Up and Piranha
PLAY BY PLAY REVIEW
Track 1 – Invaders Must Die
Neat track.
Track 2 – Omen
This had really interesting play between rhythmic and harmonic ideas.
Track 3 – Thunder
This is what I’d expect to hear if I were to walk into a club on a Friday night. Admittedly, it’s been almost a decade since I last did so. I tend to go to see live musicians more than to go dancing on a Friday night. Cool melodies. (Recreated elements from ‘Ethiopian Peace Song’ aka ‘Rasta Peace Song’ by Trevor Joe)
Track 4 – Colours
Very interesting rhythmic ideas here.
Track 5 – Take Me To The Hospital
I never realized how many small nuances there are to listen to in this type of music. (Samples ‘Salami Fever’ by Pepe Deluxé and ‘Ragamuffin Duo Take Charge’ by Asher D & Daddy Freddy)
Track 6 – Warriors Dance
I can’t explain what I like so much about this song, but I like it a lot. (Samples ‘Take Me Away’ by True Faith which was then sampled and edited by Major Players in ‘Come With Me’ which is where the vocals for this track come from. Samples ‘Final Cut’ featuring Bridgette Grace)
Track 7 – Run With The Wolves
This track features Dave Grohl on drums. This track reminded me a little of the original Batman TV series intro music. (Sample ‘So Refined’ By Senser)
Track 8 – Omen Reprise
This would make a great study in syncopation.
Track 9 – World’s On Fire
This track is arranged more like a pop song. It was definitely easier for me to connect with.(Samples ‘I Just Wanna Get Along’ by The Breeders and ‘Vamp’ by Outlander)
Track 10 – Piranha
I really like the energy here. (Samples ‘Troubled Mind’ by The Buff Medways and ‘Sara Zamana’ by Kishore Kumuar and Chorus)
Track 11 – Stand Up
This is my favorite track on the entire record! I think it is because of the old school sound it has. Dare I say almost Beatle-esque! Brilliant!