NZCA-LINES - NZCA/LINES

Having made the shift from Britpop bassist to electro- pop producer, over the last few years Michael Lovett has hidden himself away, keeping a safe distance from the endless, cyclical conveyer belt that is the music industry, regurgitating its generic pop melodies and distributing them to the eager ears of the unquestioning public. NZCA/LINES' self titled debut offers lush melodies, hypnotic layers of instrumentation and soothing vocals, providing pop music that is an enjoyable alternative to the majority of material that is forced upon us every day.

Opener 'Compass Points' begins with the expertly manufactured drumbeat that repeats throughout, as swaying synthesizer's are added to the mix and Lovett's effortless vocals make a grand entrance, elements of R 'n' B appear to be a prominent feature in the work of NZCA/LINES. Throughout the album, 'Nights Out' era 'Metronomy' springs to mind, certain keyboard parts and the charming, delicate vocals aren't dissimilar from those of Joseph Mount and co. This is particularly noticeable in 'Okinawa Channels', a definite high point of the album, the synthesized bass line is an invitation to tap your feet that simply can't be turned down.

Breezy synth's dominate on 'Nazca' before an arpeggiated bass is incorporated, providing the track with a satisfying depth, vague vocals loop over each other and bright keyboard lead parts could slip in unnoticed on a Kraftwerk track. 'Moonlit Car Chase' is a perfectly structured piece of electronic music, with a symphonic lead part echoing over Lovett's crooning vocals as the track builds up and settles back down in smooth waves of sound.

NZCA/LINES offers a combination of indie-pop, dance, electronica and R 'n' B, Lovett uses all the elements with measured precision, creating a range of atmospheric pieces and catchy tunes in a satisfying debut. An achievement which should have the likes of Hot Chip, LCD Soundsystem and Cut Copy listening with a satisfied appreciation.

James Hopkin