Though
Bomb the Bass' third album,
Clear, was originally a scattershot, kinetic dance record, Tim Simenon restructured the record for its American release. The American version of
Clear demonstrates a distinct trip-hop, techno, jazz, and dub influence, as well as the literary lyical pretentions that were present on the original English release. Simenon created a subdued, multi-layered album, where instruments float in and out of the mix over a deep, laidback groove. All of the rappers on the record are guest stars, including
Sinead O'Connor and
Justin Warfield. Although their contributions are impressive, the true star of the album is Simenon, who has made an album that proves he isn't stuck in the late-'80s house/techno rut and can compete with '90s artists like
Tricky and
Portishead. Still, the album highlight comes with a La Funk Mob reworking ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine