017 - John Roberts (Glass Eights)

With this album, less is more. As opposed to cheapening components through their overuse, Roberts' use of restraint maintains their value. He recognizes the potential in holding back, in building up - as well as subverting - expectation. As a result, his music appears smart, well-dressed and sophisticated. I particularly like the use of the piano, which can be heard in Pruned.

John Roberts - Ever Or Not

John Roberts - Pruned

014 - Burial & Four Tet

This track is the precursor to their most recent collaboration with Thom Yorke. I think it chugs along really nicely. Despite this, however, I find that sometimes it loses my attention, due in part to its length. It doesn't really go anywhere - or rather, it doesn't go far - but that's not necessarily a bad thing: not all tracks have to embark on some kind of journey. It wouldn't set any dancefloors alight, but would go down well at the end of a night. I like the jerky element of the melody coupled with the wispy vocal line characteristic of Burial. Most importantly, both artists have left their mark without overshadowing the other. Overall, a successful collaboration.

Burial & Four Tet - Moth