Artist: Fila Brazillia Album: Maim That Tune

Year: 1995
Duration: 1:16:45

A Critical Review of the Album 'Maim That Tune' by Fila Brazillia

Fila Brazillia is a name that holds a special place in the hearts of those who loved genres like downtempo, chillout, and lounge. Formed in 1990, the Sheffield duo made up of Steve Cobby and David McSherry, is said to have helped to establish the groundbreaking downbeat scene. Their third album, 'Maim That Tune', released in 1996, was particularly well-received by critics and fans alike, with its innovative beats and melodies – a style that remains influential even today. In this critical review, we’ll explore the elements that make the album a stand-out musical work.

History of the artist

Before diving into the details of the album, it's worth noting that Fila Brazillia had already made a name for themselves. Their first two albums, ‘Old Codes New Chaos’ and ‘Mellowdrama’, were critically acclaimed, moving through the mud that was downtempo music. From there, the group began to evolve and expand their sound, and this is where they hit gold with ‘Maim That Tune’.

The music genre of the album

‘Maim That Tune’ is a unique combination of genres, mixing downtempo with jazz, blues, and even world music. You'll find sounds from Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean throughout the album, which is a nod to the roots of downtempo music. Regardless of the influences behind it though, the overall result is a beautifully blended and crafted sound.

The best songs of the album

The album isn't just a collection of good songs - it's a cohesive work that takes the listener on a journey. However, there are some standout tracks worth mentioning. 'President Chimp Toe,' with its laid-back beats and quirky sampling, is a great intro to the album. 'Theresa' shows off Fila Brazillia's mastery of jazz samples, with a chilled-out vibe that’s hard to resist. 'The New Cannonball' is another highlight which features a catchy sax tune. Finally, the closing song, 'Extract of Pineal Gland,' is a luscious blend of soundscapes and rhythm.

The most innovative parts of the album

One of the most outstanding parts of the album is its intricate and seamless mixing of samples. There are over 200 samples in ‘Maim The Tune’, and yet, they never feel forced - everything comes together naturally. The seamless transition between tracks and genres is also impressive, creating a smooth listening experience from start to finish.

A critical review of the album

A critical review of the album

While 'Maim That Tune' is an incredible album, it's not without its weak points. Some of the tracks can feel a bit repetitive, with similar rhythms and beats throughout. ‘Soft Music Under Stars’, although good, seems to lack the same energy as the other tracks in the album, making it feel a tad mediocre. However, given the timelessness of the album as a whole, these criticisms seem minor.

All in all, 'Maim That Tune' is a classic album that any music lover should experience. Fila Brazillia managed to create a sound that was new, fresh, and entirely their own, fusing together genres to create a masterpiece that still holds up after all these years. The album’s ability to create a sonic journey that feels complete from beginning to end is impressive, leaving an everlasting impression. Although ‘Maim That Tune’ may not be a perfect album, it’s definitely one that has stood the test of time and worth exploring.