The Russian Futurists - 'Me, Myself And Rye' (Memphis Industries) Released 07/08/06

You may feel drunk on vodka listening to this record, but actually you’re only off your tits on happiness. And do you feel that warm, fuzzy feeling that’s tingling inside and melting your cold heart? Again, its due to the magical, mystical powers of the syrupy sweet one-man electronic orchestra that is Matthew Adam Hart aka the Russian Futurists. Deriving from a gene pool of the Flaming Lips’ delicateness, The Bees playfulness and the Beach Boys pure summer beauty.

This record sees a collection of the best bits from the first three albums. Opener ‘Let’s Get Ready To Crumble’ is no PJ and Duncan piss take, but a perfect upbeat pop ditty that acts as a reminder that it isn’t -10°C outside (or however cold it may be in Russia). Recent single ‘Paul Simon’ consistently oscillates its thumpy, funky beats, a perfect example of sugar coated experimental pop – without the usual glossy additives in generic pop. Its purely organic due to the ingredients of wit, emotion and beauty. ‘Precious Metals’ is infused with some old skool hip hop flavourings that, to the tongue, reminisce the taste of ‘Concrete Schoolyard’.

And sure enough, there are times when the sun and sweetness can get too much, so retire to the shade with tracks like ‘Two Dots On A Map’ and ‘It’s Not Really Cold When It Snows’. They’re like a late, lazy summer evening, watching the sun go down. Simply, it’s a fantastic departure this holiday from the “THE-band-of-the-summer-you-must-love” hype and bollocks opinion as forced upon you by radio DJs across the land.

Let shrooms be a thing of the past. For that natural high, listen to ‘Me, Myself And Rye’. If Futurists all over were to believe that this is the final destiny of music. . . . where do I sign?