This is a perfect example of how good pop music can be if it’s driven by a restless intelligence. Miaoux Miaoux, aka Julian Corrie, has been turning heads with his distinctive electro-pop sound for a while, but this first album for Chemikal Underground takes things up several levels. Infused with a glitchy, indie ethic throughout, this is nevertheless gloriously melodic dance-pop genius, with echoes of mainstream acts like Daft Punk, Basement Jaxx and the long missed Avalanches. Half the tracks here could be hit singles given a following wind, but Corrie also imbues the likes of ‘Stop the Clocks’ and closer ‘Ribbon Falls’ with a heart and soul absent in most electronic music. Ass-shaking and heart-warming, this is thrilling stuff. [5/5]
DOUG JOHNSTONE