REVIEWSMalachai, ‘Return to the Ugly Side’

8

• SPIN Rating:8 of 10

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Release Date: February 22, 2011
Label: Domino

Cheerfully ignoring stylistic boundaries, Brit duo Malachai (formerly Malakai) polish their cut-and-paste skills on this follow-up to last year's tantalizing Ugly Side of Love. Wistful singer Gee and subtle sampler Scott incorporate psychedelic electronica, sleepy funk, and clattering garage rock, crafting a surprisingly unified piece that drifts through your subconscious like a pleasantly odd dream. It's fitting that Malachai are championed by Portishead's Geoff Barrow (who released their debut on his Invada label); they could be the friskier offspring of that revered group.