Album: “No Roots [Remaster]”

Description

U.K. edition. <p>On the strength of the lead single "Mass Destruction" alone (the album features two mixes of the song, as well as its video), NO ROOTS is another powerhouse entry in the Faithless discography. The driving groove, the subdued rap of vocalist Maxi Jazz, and the compelling, politically pointed message of the lyrics make "Mass Destruction" a clear standout track. Fortunately, there is more to NO ROOTS, as producers Rollo and Sister Bliss flesh out the entire record with gorgeous sonic architecture and stylistic flourishes that range from dub to ambient to deep house. <p>Maxi Jazz and newcomer LSK (who lends his ragga-inflected vocal style to the group) bring a lyrical intelligence to the album. Though there are obvious dance-floor tracks and love songs ("Miss U Less, See U More"), the record has a decidedly message-driven bent. "I Want More - Part 1" rails against materialism, and "Everything Will Be Alright Tomorrow" offers a narrative about economic inequality. The tracks are sequenced to flow into each other seamlessly, thanks to the savvy instincts of Rollo and Sister Bliss. As accomplished as anything the band has done, NO ROOTS is another fine Faithless achievement.