A Great Introduction To An Influential Band
I have to admit to being slightly confused about the fact that Parisian electro duo Space share their name with a certain 90’s Liverpudlian indie band, but once I’ve got over the initial confusion this album proves to be a good introduction to a band that I wasn’t expecting to listen to.
Swirling electro melodies, pattering beats and plenty of zany sounds characterise the band’s funky output, which helped them sell 12 million recorders between 1977 and 1981, quite some achievement and one that deserves to be celebrated in a collection like this. ‘Running In The City’ perfectly captures the spirit of the music that made Space pioneers in their day; though the synth tones may sound a little dated and tinny these days, the tune is driven and builds to a real peak. If you appreciate your synth disco, then you’ll enjoy the jazzy groove of numbers like, ‘Carry On, Turn Me On’, which also features smooth and soulful vocals that are a pleasant shock on an album that is ostensibly instrumental.
‘Prison’ captures the sound of an era with climactic, bold keyboard riffs and bold, ballsy female vocals that add some smooth elegance to the piece. More slow and sultry, ‘Fasten Seat Belt’ is a pensive, delicate tune that draws you in with a slow, heavy percussive beat and glittering keys that swell into another racy, futuristic rhythm. ‘Robbots’ is another instantly memorable track with its aggressive chants of “robots” over a glossy, metallic-edged backing.
‘The Best of Space’ seems like a great introduction to a band who inspired legendary groups like Daft Punk to take a foray into the world of electro music, and for that we’re eternally grateful. The tunes clearly belong to the era that they derived from, but they still have catchy rhythms and enough icey hooks to appeal to a modern audience and attract new listeners.