telynor's Full Review: Furious Angels by Rob Dougan
I usually don't listen to much modern music any more, discovering that I tend to be happier when I've classical and jazz playing with the occansional dose of Sting or Annie Lennox to give me lyrics when I need them. But of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. One of them are the electronic fantasies of Rob Dougan, who gave the soundtrack to The Matrix such a kick.
With Furious Angels, Dougan hits the solo path, rereleasing several pieces that he did for the Matrix films, and some experiments of his own. It's tumultous, moody and definately dark music, stuff that the dark side of our souls with little minimovies in these songs, with orchestral background, raw vocals, and plenty of electronic sweeteners. Call it Neo-Decadent music, what with the bleak themes, classical overtones and lyrics about dispair, death, and betrayal. It's not for everyone, but if you like your music to be something other than the endless syrupy outlay from the current land of pop, this is for you.
Disc: 1
Prelude
Nice, pretty choral vocals that only last about twenty seconds.
Furious Angels
I do have to admit that this is my favorite track on the cd, with the blend of angry vocals, classical string compostion and some pretty intense percussion. Featured on the second Matrix soundtrack.
Will You Follow Me?
This is an instrumental, and gets repeated on the second disc (why, I have no idea). It's more of that decandent stuff, combining a symphonic touch with some choral works and electronics.
Left Me for Dead
Starts off with a nasty little grind of electronics, and some lyrics that are pretty intense, but understandable considering the title of the song. Great for when you're very angry at someone...
I'm Not Driving Anymore
This one is another one that's rather good. More smoky, quavering vocals -- Dougan sounds like he's been sucking down Marlboros and whiskey since birth. It's ok, but not nearly as good as the previous cut. Inspired by the script for the film Scent of a Woman.
Clubbed to Death -- [Kurayamino Variation]
Played endlessly when the first Matrix film was released, and used for a few car commericals, it's still as good from the first time I heard it. If you're curious as to what the classical riffs are from, they're from Edward Elgar's Engima Variations.
There's Only Me
Starting off with a howl of Dougan's, it's another mix of strings and electronics. It has a pretty melancholy feel to it, and some pretty unhappy lyrics. Sort of thing you find after the fifth McEwan's Export.
Instrumental
This cut isn't too bad. Somewhat romantic and lyrical, but it works.
Nothing at All
I like the piano opening in this one, simple and very graceful. It shows that Dougan can indeed compose, and the vocals fit and sound right as well. It's more melancholy blues that work into guitar and your basic rock percussion, but it's a bit different in a way that I can't quite place. Still, I like it, and I guess that is what matters.
Born Yesterday
This is more in line with the earlier tracks, plenty of hard percussion and electronic mixing. More male/female angst.
Speed Me Towards Death
More noodling with vocals, strings and what have you. The vocals on this one are nearly incomprehensible, and this track does sound much better as a purely instrumental arrangement.
Drinking Song
This is the track that I like the least on the cd. It's silly, sappy, and while does make a good inpact at the start it quickly slides into a soppy mess.
Pause
Is just that. A pause. A gimmick in very bad taste.
One and the Same (Coda)
More romantic lyrics, and while it's not bad, it's not one of my favorites either. It has a sort of R&B sound to it, and more discordant lyrics. Dougan frankly sounds better when he's upset and angry rather than trying to croon anything else.
Clubbed to Death 2
This particular track is exclusive to this cd set. Very classical in tone, and makes a nice bit of ruckus throughout.
Disc: 2
All of the cuts on the second disc in the cd are the instrumental versions of the various titles, and all of the vocal versions can be found on the first disc. Nice for when you find the lyrics too distracting. Two videos are also included, Clubbed to Death and Furious Angels. These alone make the cd purchase worth it, if you're into that sort of thing.
Will You Follow Me? Furious Angels Left Me for Dead I'm Not Driving Anymore There's Only Me Instrumental Nothing at All Born Yesterday Speed Me Towards Death One and the Same
For those who are curious about Dougan's work, it's a good introduction. While this is an album I wouldn't want to listen to all the time, it does make a nice break from my usual fare. All of the lyrics as well as some rather interesting photos are included in the liner notes, something that I don't see too much of any more. It will be interesting to see what else Dougan comes up with in the future, at least you can't call his work boring.
Furious Angels
Rob Dougan
2001, 2003; BMG UK and Ireland, Ltd.
Reprise 48430-2
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