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This album is entitled “Vertigo” and it lives in a special section of my CD collection along with Air’s “Moon Safari”, William Orbit’s “Pieces in a Modern Style” and Massive Attack’s “Blue Lines”. This section is of course is the “Chilled Zone” – a.k.a. “Music For Hangovers”. The battlecruise ... Read review
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound ofVerti...
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound of Vert...
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound of Vert...
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound ofVerti...
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound ofVerti...
Vertigo - Groove Armada
Though both Groove Armada's Tom Findlay and Andy Cato hail from London, the pair choose to ... more
kick back to Ambleside in Cumbria when recording. As with a great deal of dance music through the 1990s, though broadly still considered house, the sound of Vert...
A review by scruff on Vertigo - Groove Armada December 19th, 2001
Author's product rating:
Originality
Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics
Thought-provoking
Quality and consistency of tracks
Flawless
Value for Money
Advantages:
Classic chilled albm which can be found hiding in bargain bins at music stores
Disadvantages:
All good things come to an end . . .
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
Okay, okay! I know it’s a bad pun and I can hear your groans from here – but that was the best I could do!
This opinion is about the stunning second studio album from Groove Armada, which was released in 1999 on Zomba Records. Admittedly I kind of missed the boat with them and only recently discovered them via a free CD that came with the “Later” magazine – shame on me! So when I saw it in the bargain basement at Amazon it was purchased immediately! In case you don’t already now Groove Armada are in fact Tom Findlay and Andy Cato who hail from London, but to record this album they headed to the backwaters of Ambleside in Cumbria.
This album is entitled “Vertigo” and it lives in a special section of my CD collection along with Air’s “Moon Safari”, William Orbit’s “Pieces in a Modern Style” and Massive Attack’s “Blue Lines”. This section is of course is the “Chilled Zone” – a.k.a. “Music For Hangovers”. The battlecruise (booze cruise) hardened Ciao-ers out there probably know what I’m talking about. After a late night Saturday clubbing followed by crawling into bed and some ridiculous hour in the morning, the only thing you want to do on the Sunday is to lie in bed and dream that you are somewhere else. Anywhere will do as long as the hangover doesn’t come to. This is where this album fits in as Groove Armada’s chilled melodies and soothing instrumentals drip with a tropical sound conjuring up the dreamy feeling your in paradise…
1. Chicago
This is the opening track to the album and it is nothing more than an ambient instrumental. The tune is held together by a simple rhythmic and a funky guitar sample. Mix in a bit of electronica and hey prets, you get an awesome chilled out sound carrying your mind off to your own personal nirvana. A fantastic introduction to get you in the mood for whatever.
2. Whatever, Whenever
This track comes as a bit of a shock to the system as the blissful ambience gives way to an urban hip-hop sound. Although the vibes are still chilled, the addition of a more defined bass-line and rapping, courtesy of M.A.D., gives the track a dirtier, funkier sound. A lot of people I know have mistaken this for the work of Massive Attack, and I can clearly see why. The credits say that there is an element of “Inside Out” by American Gypsy in their somewhere.
3. Dusk You and Me
This track slows the tempo right down to a near stand still. It is a really atmospheric piece of music with the haunting sounds provided by a lonely saxophone and a string section. The Platters provide the lyrics courtesy of a sample of “Twilight Times”. I have to admit that this is one of my favourite songs at the moment
4. Pre 63
This is a complicated multi-layered track. It opens with a serving of horns, kickhorns, three different types of saxophone and a flugelhorn being gently blended together before the addition of a tinkly beat. Next stir in a strong base melody, a dancey drum beat with a hint of flute. After leaving to simmer add some sampled lyrics and a dash of trumpet solo before serving. Sound like a recipe for disaster? Well suprisingly not in this case as you end up with a great upbeat, funk-fuelled track.
5. If Everybody Looked the Same
You’ve probably already heard this as it features on the Mercedes Benz adverts (No not the one asking whether God will buy me one – that’s Janis Joplin) and it is the most swing-out track on the album and arguably the finest work to date. It is a faster paced track than the previous and is dominated by a great backbeat. Vocals are provided by Gramma Funk and samples of “We are neighbours” and “1nce again” are thrown in for good measure.
6. Serve Chilled
After the breakbeat of the last track, the pace of the album once again returns to a leisurely amble. This song sounds as though it belongs on the soundtrack of a movie akin to “Close Encounters” with its, eerie alien like sounds. Another finely crafted multi-layered piece, which features bongos, and maracas to give a tribal feel. Overall, this piece has a darker edge to it but it still remains easy listening.
7. I See You Baby
Another tune found on the TV. “I see you Baby, shaking that ass….” Is sung once again by Gramma Funk over a “stripped to the bone” drum rhythm. Minimal electronica sounds have been added, but it still sounds fantastically funky.
8. A Private Interlude
This opens with echoing electronica and scratching effects before a soothing melodic rhythm kicks in. Finally the introduction of a latinesque guitar sample lends a distinctly urban sound, yet the feeling is more exotic.
9. At The River
This song sounds as though it was stolen straight from Morcheeba’s music book. This is a beautiful ambient track over which a simple saxophone melody is played. The dreamy lyrics are from “Old Cape Cod” and paint pictures of summer beach holidays in your mind. I don’t think a song could ever sound more chilled and relaxed than this.
10. In My Bones
Opening with the sounds of whales and dolphins calling before a samba style beat is introduced. The tune is livelier than before but the percussion is more of an industrial racket, over the top of this a vocal sample by Gramma Funk “House Music” is repeated. Strangely, it works.
11. Your Song
Your song has a much softer sound than previous but it is still down right funky. The beautiful vocals are by Sophie Barker, and she is not to unlike Sade and Keeling Lee supplies the guitar.
12. Inside My Mind (Blue Skies)
This was the track through which I was first introduced to Groove Armada as it was included on a Later magazine CD called Serve Chilled (If you ever see it in the bargain bins in a second hand CD shop its worth checking out). This is the final track and is another finely crafted track which boasts a soothing rhythm and a memorable melody. The male vocals are taken from a sample of “Blue Skies” by Dick Haynes and female vocals are provided once again by Sophie Barker.
I must admit that I`m not a big fan of dance music generally although I do own a few of the more classic albums. If you are a big dance fan then you probably already have a copy of this. I guess if you are like me and liked Moby’s “Play” or anything by Morcheeba and/or Massive Attack then I think you would love this. As it is a few years old now and Groove Armada recently released a new album called “Goodbye country, Hello Nightclub” so it can often be found in the sales. I paid only £6.99 and I consider it as a definite bargain.
So it is time for another op, well I have decided to a crack down on my CD’s that I own, and let me tell you there are quite a few. As some of you may now I have an extremely wide taste in music, (Eva Cassidy and now Groove Armada!)? It is quite amazing actually; I can listen to classical and then turn on pop, dance or soul. This is what I adore about music, it is what you make it, you decide, and you stay in control.
I was first introduced ... ...that?) and it came with a free CD. It had a wicked remix of ‘If Everybody Looked The Same’ and so I splashed out and got the album. When I first listened I was impressed, second time I was shocked and third amazed. This album releases new experiences every time you listen …
1. Chicago – This track starts really well, it has the sound of a car engine revving up and an eerie sound in the background that sounds great mixed together. ...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful
Advantages: Amazing chill out album - great grooves Disadvantages: There are none.
I was lucky enough to be given a signed copy of this album by my sister - and was delighted. When i actually listened to the album - i was amazed. Such nice beats and vocals, and keyboards - it's such a damn good album
Now that it's summer again (hopefully) this is one people should be buying again- it's a great summer album - really relaxing, chill-out grooves, from the single "At The River" - great trumpet, to the up-lifting "Blue Skies" - you ...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful
Advantages: Great harmonies Disadvantages: Poor lyrics
Like their adverts say, the album boasts numerous songs that you've heard somewhere, such as "If Everybody Looked the Same" used in the film Miss Congeniality.
On the whole, the songs are quite pleasant with good instruments although the lyrics do get repetitive. Having said that, you will come back to this album again and again. The great blend of harmonies and samples will ensure that.
By far the best song on the album is "At the River" which ... ...and salty air..." and a beautiful layering of sounds which combine to leave a real peaceful impression.
The cover design was below-par, with a style that is becoming rapidly clichéd, but it certainly did not stop me enjoying the music.
This would make an ideal present for someone, even if they aren't interested in music. It's not of the same caliber of Moby or Fatboy Slim, but if you like their music you should enjoy Vertigo. ...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful
Advantages: Original, energising and "Different" Disadvantages: Can sound harsh and monotonous if you don't like that kind of thing
...carried this technique off to a treat and Rhythm and Stealth offers more of the same, if not in a slightly different guise.
I suppose that I'm writing this in a way that would suggest that people know a bit about Leftfield and I apologise for this, it's the kind of music that needs to be heard to be understood. I'll start by saying that Rhythm and Stealth is not an album for the faint hearted or a new comer to the genre. If you fancy something experimental and haven't really bought anything of this sort before, then I'd advise against it; Leftfield's approach is definitely fantastic but I wouldn't be surprised if a listen to this album would leave many people cold; you should maybe try an album like Vertigo by GrooveArmada which preaches some of the same principles but with a much less clinical angle on production.
The album opens...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful
Advantages: New, exciting, rash, uplifting Disadvantages: A few weak tracks towards the end of the album
...for bargain prices :).
IF YOU LIKE THIS, THEN YOU'LL LOVE:
Chemical Brothers - Dig your own hole
Massive Attack - Mezzanine
THE TAIMER OPTION:
Faithless - Sunday 8PM
GrooveArmada - Vertigo
Cheers for reading!
Craig - January 2002...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful
Label / Distributor: Pepper / Sony Music/Arvato Services
Engineer: Simon Thornton
Producer: Groove Armada
Pieces in Set: 1
Studio / Live: Studio
Stereo: Stereo
Format: Performer
EAN: 5013705303326
Catalogue Number: 530332
Additional notes
Album Notes: Groove Armada: Tom Findlay, Andy Cato. Additional personnel: Gram'ma Funk, M.A.D., Sophie Barker (vocals); Keeling Lee (guitar); Dominic Betmead (scratches). The Kick Horns: Simon C. Clarke (flute, alto & baritone saxophones); Tim Sanders (tenor saxophone); Roddy Lorimer (trumpet, flugelhorn). Like U.K. contemporaries Faze Action, Groove Armada combines a love for classic disco, funk, and hip-hop with accomplished musicianship. Andy Cato and Tom Findlay supplement their breakbeats, samples, and occasional raps and vocals with bass and trombone. Unusually for a member of a dance music outfit, Yorkshireman Cato played in a brass band as a teenager before becoming a successful jazz musician. VERTIGO has a distinctly "Balearic" quality-eclectically influenced and representing styles from ambient house through hip-hop, disco, and house. "I See You Baby" is fun, exuberant disco, while "Pre 63" is moody, loping funk with some great flute and trumpet playing. The hit single "At the River" is a sumptuous chill-out, its ethereal vocal refrain and washes of brass treating you to an Ibiza sunset. "If Everybody Looked the Same" is an irresistible slice of breakbeat house that, alongside Basement Jaxx, serves to remind that interesting things can still be done with house music. VERTIGO deserves the critical acclaim it has received. The album is varied and sophisticated enough to satisfy even the most discerning of dancefloor dilettantes.
Album Reviews: Rolling Stone (3/16/00, p.73) - 3.5 stars out of 5 - "...funky hip-hop chills with live, jazzy orchestral romps, and deep house beats team with Sly Stone funk....[They] triumph less by massive groove attacks and more by laid back seduction." Alternative Press (4/00, p.70) - 4 out of 5 - "...fulfills the potential heard on the group's early material....bringing the sample-oriented downtempo/acid jazz and unites it with its mates in '60s soul and hip hop....VERTIGO will make your head spin." Muzik (1/00, p.70) - Ranked #18 in Muzik's "Albums Of The Year '99" - "...Warm and glorious...as soothing as a swim in the Med. A blissed-out collection of sun-kissed beats and cinematic set-pieces..." Entertainment Weekly (3/10/00, p.71) - "Dub, acid jazz, house, big beat, down-tempo: Groove Armada cram VERTIGO with something for everyone..." - Rating: B+ CMJ (2/28/00, p.23) - "...enforces the funk in all of its different forms, embracing it in both tranquil, downtempo jams...and ass-shaking, party-people anthems....proves [them] to be a unique and ear-catching outfit that's destined to rule the airwaves, as well as dancefloors..."
Titles on disc 1
1.: Chicago
2.: Whatever Whenever
3.: Dusk You And Me
4.: Pre 63
5.: If Everybody Looked The Same
6.: Serve Chilled
7.: I See You Baby
8.: Private Interlude
9.: At The River
10.: In My Bones
11.: Your Song
12.: Inside My Mind (Blue Skies)
13.: I See You Baby (Fatboy Slim remix)
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Listed on Ciao since : 23/07/2000
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