Moby - 'Wait For Me' (Little Idiot Records) Released 29/06/09

Delivering another dose of majestic melodies Moby states that this low-key album, released via his own imprint Little Idiot Records, is ‘a quieter, more melodic, more mournful and more personal record than some of the records [he’s] made in the past’. Indeed, as soon as you hit ‘play’ this melancholy quality becomes apparent and remains so throughout all 16 tracks. Opening number ‘Division’ appears to operate as an intro; with soaring violins that lead into the rest of the album.  As expected the record features Moby’s classic laidback beats, subtle vocals and choral gusts. ‘Shot In The Back Of The Head’ has been lifted as the first single from the album, and it is apparent why with its shifting keyboard, scratchy riff and grimy underground vibe.  There is something grave, merciless and addictive about this track.  ‘Study War’ and ‘Mistake’ are reminiscent of ‘Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad?’ and will prove popular with the masses, whereas ‘Wait For Me’ is piano-led, mysterious and edgy.  This unflinching diversity is key to the record's success.

Adding to its beguiling charm, ‘Wait For Me’ was entirely home-made, recorded in a home studio; album artwork drawn by Moby himself and vocals performed, recorded and press photos taken by his friends. His friend Ken Thomas also helped to mix the record, using various effects to create unique sounds evident in the 45 second long ‘Stock Radio’.  This snippet of sound is a small component to what has been composed as an entire entity, to be listened to from start to finish.   Rather than just picking out the tracks worthy of single-dom, this record is a collection of pieces. It almost feels like a journey, and if atmospheric and epic is your thing, then you won’t mind travelling through this very long, very heartfelt album. Easily his finest moment since his 1999 tour-de-force 'Play'.