Defining the "stopgap" release,
Bonobo's
Live Sessions is too short to really sink your teeth into, but satisfying enough for when you need just a little quirky diversion. Most interesting thing about the whole EP is how well
Bonobo's clever studio concoctions come off with the expanded live band, acoustic drums and all. The trippy, noir "Noctuary" retains its theatrical moodiness while the jaunty "Dismantling Frank" enjoys an acid jazz improvement. It's enough to wish for a live full-length, but then it's back to the studio after four cuts. The all-new "Recurring" is pleasant enough and the
Four Tet mix of "Pick Up" has some thrilling drum moments, but both feel like slapped-on B-sides or bonus tracks that have little to do with the live cuts. A nice quick taster of
Bonobo's melodic and clever downbeat electronica for when you don't have the time or cash for a full-length. ~ David Jeffries