Sleazy Funk But Little Substance
After hitting the big time in the early nineties Happy Mondays have tried several times to recreate their success, 'Jellybean' is their latest attempt.
'Jellybean' see Happy Mondays going back to their blend of sleazy funk that made them so popular about 15 years ago, but that was 15 years ago. Ryder's vocals sound like the shouts/slurs from the drunk down the local pub; synthesisers and guitars drone out into a stupid chorus. Ryder's vocals now reflect his age, they sound old and weathered meaning he will never be able to recapture the sound of their glory days although 'Jellybean' sees him in a desperate attempt to recreate that sound and sound young again.
There must be a reason why Happy Mondays comebacks have always failed and I can't see 'Jellybean' making a great deal of impact to break that pattern. Fans who like Happy Mondays original work will like 'Jellybean' but I seriously doubt it will sit well with young ears. The boys would better off sticking to making TV appearances on the likes of Big Brother and Pimp My Ride and stop offending the ears of the world with their music.