Music Monday: Jane’s M83 Jetpack

The Great Escape Artist

The Great Escape Artist

Since 1988’s “Nothing’s Shocking” album hit the scene, Jane’s Addiction has been one of my favorite hard edge alternative bands. And while they have only released four studio albums [not counting the endless number of compilation albums], they seem to always matter musically on many levels. Three of the original members remain for their latest album. Tracks like the first single “End To The Lies” are easily trumped by other songs like “Irresistible Force” which is a force of sound escaping from the speakers or headphones. Their trademark sound is evident in “Ultimate Reason”, which is more like a leftover from 2003’s “Strays” album. Evolving is what this album is all about and any Jane’s fan will like it, even if it lacks the bite from music released 23 years ago.

Hurry Up We’re Dreaming

Hurry Up We’re Dreaming

I’m a newcomer to the M83 scene. How new? Well, this is my first M83 album. Yeah, catching on with their sixth release. Better late than never. So what do I think? This double disc of electronica is a dream. Far beyond the lead single of “Midnight City”, the tracks on this album are all filled with dance, funk, pop and a bit of smooth. Songs like “Train To Pluton”, “Splendor” and “Steve McQueen” are quite accomplished numbers. Normally it takes a double album quite a few listens before it grows on me. And so it is with the latest from this French outfit. I hope to have many more listens.

In The Pit Of The Stomach

In The Pit Of The Stomach

Thanks to KevinIL for turning me onto this band. A nice mix of alternative, indie and edgy rock, this sophomore album picks up where their debut album “These Four Walls” left off. Tracks like the opener “Circles and Squares” with it’s raw guitars to “Picture of Health” which shows off their musical stylings quite well to the very Radiohead-esque “Sore Thumb” are all flowing with creative lyrics and jams. I am really liking this album with each additional play. Not bad for a Scottish group breaking into the US indie territory.