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Torch
Buy at: iTunes  eMusic  Amazon.com  GEMM

Torch If you judge Heroes of the Dancefloor's album "Torch" from its first four songs, you'll think it's solidly schizophrenic. Serious multiple personality stuff. When it comes to "Ricky" and "Same Scandal" you've got a couple uptempo cuts. The first carries a sort of 2-step rhythm marked by wonky, jazz musical inspired synth keys. The vocals layer on an old-time jazz vibe, but altogether, you'll take in an 80s pop feel. With the second track, the attitude is soulful house. It's when you reach the next two songs, "Sugar" and "Hooky" that you'll actually hear what the rest of the album is about. And here's a tip: the first two songs aren't it.
Track Listing:
  1. Ricky
  2. Same Scandal
  3. Sugar
  4. Hooky
  5. The Knack
  6. Nicotine
  7. Composure
  8. Show Me
  9. Saviour
  10. Cool
  11. Catch 22

Though "Sugar" doesn't actually stray too far from the uptempo sound of "Ricky", its 30s/40s vocal jazz style is a lot more focused. In fact, it's "Hooky" when you really step into the overall vibe of the album. It's languid, smoky, sultry, and something worth digging into. The song you really need to check out is "Nicotine". This is when the vintage jazz sounds really come together. Of course, it's not a pure old-time jazz record, because the vocals and percussion are strongly influenced by hip hop. The horns are what really make this song, and a few others here, so solid.

If you're looking for a rough downtempo equivalent to some of Parov Stelar's latest, Heroes of the Dancefloor are worth your time. Maybe try to imagine the sound of Esthero's "Wikked Lil' Grrrls" with a smokier, slightly gospel-ized swagger.

And on the philanthropic front, every bit of proceeds from the sale of this album go to a New York City charity called Picture the Homeless. It's an award winning organization actually led by homeless people, so you know the help is direct to the streets. That means there's no reason you shouldn't get this one.
Digital Only released on Nov 24, 2008
Buy at: iTunes  eMusic  Amazon.com  GEMM

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