Surface Noise

Album Review

With Surface Noise, Simon Dine reaches back to the 1960s via 21st century sampling technology and creates a vibrant psychedelic sonic tapestry. As on Self-Assembly, vocalist and sometime co-writer Daisey Martey offers her soulful, cool voice to a number of tracks. Her voice continues to resonate as one of the most interesting in British rock, as her confident pacing and phrasing makes "Go It Alone" absolutely ooze sensuality. Martey evokes truly timeless and sinister vibes on "Boy Like a Timebomb," another highlight. Dine was able to reel-in his friend and frequent collaborator Paul Weller for two powerful guest appearances, and "I'll Walk Right On" is easily among Weller's all-time most compelling performances, as Dine's eclectic shuffle paints pictures of the past. Johnny Best, Francis Reader, and Luca add voice and charisma as well, acting as muses for Dine's '60s fetish. Noonday Underground exist somewhere between chill electronica, DJ Shadow-like beats, John Barry film scores, and David Holmes' suave electro-disco. With his longtime collaborators in tow and ace production skills, Dine comes up with a real winner with Surface Noise. Modern and crisp yet ever respectful of its musical pedigree, Simon Dine's sophomore album as Noonday Underground is like a time machine brimming with tuneful mementos.