International Observer - Felt

Rating: * * * *

International Observer is the dubwise project of British producer and songwriter Tom Bailey, once better known as the leader of 80s synth pop band the Thompson Twins and also a former New Zealand resident. Now making music back in his homeland, Felt is his fourth release as International Observer, and he sets off on yet another deliciously dubbed-out trip.

Maybe it's that 80's pop sensitivity of Thompson Twins' songs like Hold Me Now and Doctor Doctor coming through, but Bailey has a unique take on dub whereby he keeps the songs bubbling along rather than just leaving them to nod and bob at will.

Take dreamy, spaced-out opener House of the Rising Dub, a cover version of that famous song complete with echoes, subtle depth-charge bass, and a special touch of serene acoustic guitar to end. And while the title of Popcorn Slavery is the closest he's likely to get to pop music, the song itself still has a pop sensibility to it thanks to the cute beeps and keyboard chinks throughout.

The true highlights though are two diverse tracks: Mudshark Lick is a traditional shuddering dub groove track and then there's the mysterious, gypsy-tinged Lampedusa.

Yes, Felt is one of those albums you can put on in the background - and in the backyard this summer. But it also conjures up an atmosphere and mood that's unique and powerful.

And similar to his last album, Heard, and the 2005 out-takes album, All Played Out, it's one of those records that you will keep going back to for years to come.

Scott Kara