Artist: David Holmes Album: Bow Down to the Exit Sign

Year: 2000
Duration: 0:0-1

Bow Down to the Exit Sign: A Critical Review of David Holmes' Album

David Holmes is a Northern Irish composer, producer, and DJ who has been in the music industry for over two decades. He has won critical acclaim for his eclectic sound and experimentation with different genres. One of his most renowned works is his 2000 album, Bow Down to the Exit Sign.

Released under the label 13 Amp, the album contains 14 tracks that are part of Holmes' exploration of diverse musical styles, such as trip-hop, funk, soul, and rock. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the album, its unique qualities, and why it is a must-listen.

The album begins with No Man's Land, a haunting song that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The slow tempo and eerie melodies create a sense of foreboding that carries over to the next tracks. My Mate Paul, the album's most well-known track, blends funk and electronic music to create a danceable beat that is both catchy and hypnotic.

One of the most innovative parts of Bow Down to the Exit Sign is the seamless transitions between tracks. Holmes masterfully blends different genres and sounds, making each track flow into the other. Paper Underwear, for example, starts with an intro that sounds like a spaceship taking off, then quickly shifts to a groovy beat that combines trip-hop and soul.

The album's title track, Bow Down to the Exit Sign, is a standout for its use of spoken word poetry. Guest vocalist Jon Spencer delivers a gritty performance that perfectly complements Holmes' beats. The song's lyrics speak of the departure from one's self and the need to embrace change, which fits well with the overall themes of the album.

Other notable tracks include 69 Police, which features a sample from an old French film, Bad Thing, a soulful track with powerful vocals, and Head Rush on Lafayette, which showcases the album's versatility by incorporating elements of rock and blues.

However, the album is not without flaws. Some tracks feel disjointed or lack the cohesion that is present in the rest of the album. The instrumental tracks, such as Slip Your Skin and 69 Année Érotique, feel like filler and detract from the overall flow of the album.

Bow Down to the Exit Sign is a testament to David Holmes' talent as a producer and composer. Its combination of different genres, innovative sound, and seamless transitions make it a must-listen for anyone who loves music that pushes boundaries. While it is not without its flaws, the album's strengths more than make up for them. If you haven't listened to it yet, give it a try and see why it is one of Holmes' best works.