Cheat Codes

A very worthwhile way to spend the evening.

I didn't know who Danger Mouse was to start this particular listening session, but I damn well know about him now. What was stunning about this album is that even during songs I thought were misses, the sheer brilliance and creativity of the production was undeniable.

Take "Cheat Codes" for example; I couldn't really get around the track on account of the repetitive notes being played on every beat in the background. It made my head hurt and that was never going to end up in my playlist.

And yet I STILL feel like I respect the song on the whole, because DM's mastery of synchronising several orchestras worth of instruments is so plain to hear, just the same as it is on every track. Did that particular combination work in that instance? I don't think so, and there were also a couple of others which were unable to hold my attention, largely due to similar repetitive notes. So no, this isn't a perfect album.

But it is pretty damn impressive; to even attempt some of these songs is well beyond the talents of most producers you'll find in the genre. This album commands respect.