Something That’s To Be Forbidden

Basement Jaxx “Raindrops”

Basement Jaxx are masters of ecstatic release, and so it makes a lot of sense that whoever wrote the lyrics for this new single would foreground that concept, and make the entire song about finally getting exactly what you desire the most. The song takes place after the catharsis, but the feeling of relief is the chorus is so powerful and joyous that it implies an incredible, all-encompassing yearning and anticipation leading up to that moment of ultimate satisfaction. This is such a simple, brilliant expression of what the Jaxx do best, and clearly an instant classic in their canon of singles.

Visit the official Basement Jaxx site.

John & Jehn “Oh My Lover”

Though I enjoy the bolder points of Jehn’s voice as much as I ought to, the most captivating bits of her performance on this song are the small details. Specifically, I love the sound of her exhaling into the microphone at various points in the track. I like the pause, the implication of slight exhaustion, and the indication of letting a thought linger in the mind for a few moments before moving on to the next line. It suits the song very well, which comes across like some kind of dark fantasy, even without the spookier elements in the arrangement.

Click here for John & Jehn’s official blog.