For a guy who made his name driving party people to ecstasy, Moby has always had a thing for the blues. His unlikely 1999 megahit, Play, used them literally, grafting ancient samples into inviting electronic grooves. His latest uses them spiritually, giving his melancholy streak room to brood and blossom. Instrumentals like "Shot in the Back of the Head" (Google the haunting video, directed by David Lynch) billow moodily, lush arrangements glowing with Eno-style analog-synth warmth. Never the most convincing singer, Moby wisely farms out vocal duties to friends — all of them unknowns and ripe for discovery. It's a return to form but with a wider romantic streak. Age will do that.

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WILL HERMES

(Posted: Jun 29, 2009)