In 1996, Sneaker Pimps released Becoming X, a melodic, trancey album with wispy vocals provided by Kelli Dayton. In a desire to be different, the lads replaced her with the guitarist Chris Corner. Vastly different but enough similarities to its predecessor do Splinter good stead. It begins with a heavy, melodic track "Half Life" and moves on to the released "Low Five." Corner's lyrics suit the music to perfection and his voice is perfectly husky and masculine enough to satisfy.
Splinter's first four tracks could be called the pop section, with sounds very similar to Becoming X. The middle section devolves into murky waters and haunting sounds with matching lyrics and the tempo slowing to practically a stop. The final section is the treat among treats as we get fantastic acoustic guitar riffs and long lyric-free sections being held together with only a guitar.
Overall this album is fantastic and it's a great pity that it's only a limited release. It's a European release, but with the forthcoming Bloodsport, the Sneaker Pimps should reach a wider audience with their relatively new male lead.
Similar sounding releases
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