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Preview Thu Oct 07 2010
Find Your Way to Jamie Lidell
English ex-pat Jamie Lidell began his musical career with some undeveloped ideas before catching on with Christian Vogel as part of the electronic duo Super Collider. However, in 2005, Lidell released an ode to funk and soul, Multiply, that saw his popularity swell. Its combination of funk, soul and electronic music drew raves as Lidell stood up from behind the laptop to showcase his impressive vocals and prove that "revivalist" isn't synonymous with "copycat" by integrating digital techniques that weren't available to his funk and soul inspirations. On the proper followup, Jim, the styles meshed smoother to sound not far from Jamiroquai or southern soul.
Compass picks up in 2010 where Jim left off. Now, without reading anything about the album beforehand, its sound (especially the effects on Lidell's vocals) instantly reminded me of Odelay. (So it was no surprise a couple read interviews later to learn that Beck was one of many guests that also include Nikka Costa, Feist, James Gadson, Grizzly Bear, etc.) That whole kitchen sink approach to songwriting is on display throughout Compass. It's a little messier (in a good way) and downtempo than its predecessors, but still a sonic whirlwind. However, as good as Lidell's albums are, they pale in comparison to his energetic live show. Even as he becomes a bit more eccentric (um, did you see what he was wearing at Lollapalooza?), he's at heart an entertainer; bounding about the stage, putting his electronic roots on display, wowing with his full voice and seemingly having a blast every second.
Jamie Lidell headlines the Bottom Lounge on Saturday, October 9. Zeus, formerly the backing band of Broken Social Scene's Jason Collett and contributors to Compass, open at 9PM. Tickets are $20 and the show's 17+. The Bottom Lounge is at 1375 W. Lake.