This is a bloody good album! Psalmistry integrates influences from five Bristol residents, each contributing their own little tidbit in the mix. And the recipe for success consists of equal parts of the following: Matt Wilshire's "love of Latin Jazz percussion," MC Edi Johnston's rapping, the tricky loops spliced together by Tony Silcock, the ethereal vocals of Lucy Britten and Helen Maynard-Watts, and some edgy, raw attitude. Cook it up and serve it fresh.
Hard, fast, thumping timing contrast the angelic harmonies and occasional synthesized string arrangements, and then the music spins in another direction with a smidgen of rapping done in a tough (think EMF's "Unbelievable") British accent. The samples are nothing short of brilliant, placing Psalmistry right up there with the best. "By Your Side," sporting some incredibly intense layered vocal harmonies, over the top of a pounding beat, is easily the strongest track. The only misplaced gear in the machinery is the punk song "Paul Daniels." Although a good punk song, (that even Treble liked) it might have been more effective as a hidden track. More appropriately placed is the song, "Jesus Armchair," which starts with light acoustic guitar plucking and airy female vocals, and intermittently mixes in tight percussion loops.
I am truly tempted to give this five cows, because it is by far the best techno album I have heard in a long time. Leave it to the Britons to keep bringing on fresh electronic music. Did I say it was bloody good?
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Linda J. T. LaFianza / Shari LloydArmchair Rebellion puts the listener on the dance floor with one of the most exciting bands playing in the name of Jesus. Here Jesus is Lord and worthy of your praise. Any Christian DJ can slip this CD in at a secular gig without embarrassing himself. This album is top notch praise and worship. Armchair Rebellion is a biting indictment against complacency which makes sub par praise and worship…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by James StewartPsalmistry have finally released the album their fans have been waiting for. In contrast to their previous low-budget recordings, this one is far more professional and convincing than anything they've done to date. For most of the album they retain their familiar hard-edged sound (somewhat akin to Prodigy or Chemical Brothers), while adding spacey synths, strong female vocals, and the odd hint…
