With
Surface Noise,
Simon Dine reaches back to the 1960s via 21st century sampling technology and creates a vibrant psychedelic sonic tapestry. As on
Self-Assembly, vocalist and sometime co-writer
Daisey Martey offers her soulful, cool voice to a number of tracks. Her voice continues to resonate as one of the most interesting in British rock, as her confident pacing and phrasing makes "Go It Alone" absolutely ooze sensuality.
Martey evokes truly timeless and sinister vibes on "Boy Like a Timebomb," another highlight.
Dine was able to reel-in his friend and frequent collaborator
Paul Weller for two powerful guest appearances, and "I'll Walk Right On" is easily among
Weller's all-time most compelling performances, as
Dine's eclectic shuffle paints pictures of the past. Johnny Best, Francis Reader, and
Luca add voice and charisma as well, acting as muses for
Dine's '60s fetish.
Noonday Underground exist somewhere between chill electronica,
DJ Shadow-like beats,
John Barry film scores, and
David Holmes' suave electro-disco. With his longtime collaborators in tow and ace production skills,
Dine comes up with a real winner with
Surface Noise. Modern and crisp yet ever respectful of its musical pedigree,
Simon Dine's sophomore album as
Noonday Underground is like a time machine brimming with tuneful mementos.