Fantastic something-for-everyone dancepop
Shashank Tripathi | Gadabout | 05/01/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"After listening to their sensual sitar dance number called "On the ropes" on the soundtrack of Get Carter (that insipid Sylvester movie on which some of the best music of that year was squandered), I had some high hopes from this deep house duo from Manchester. Dancehall Places will get you by the tweezers. This is their second album I believe, and its packed with a something-for-everyone blend of techno blues, newage ambient disco, and overtones of ska/deephouse. "Blue Song" seems inspired by the electronica rave of Orbital or Moby, in contrast to the somewhat smoky title track that is devoid of all dance influence, while "Show Me" has a world music ring to it. Amazing range. Lot of recognizable sounds here, some danceable, some I'd venture to categorize as zany pop. Highly recommended if you like it kinky."
Glasswerk review
Shashank Tripathi | 04/09/2003
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Dancehall Places is the follow up to last year's acclaimed debut On the Ropes, and is an eclectic mix of joyous blues and handbag beats. The opening 'Blue Song' bubbles along like a summer treat, and ska legend Prince Buster's claim in 'Sexiest Man in Jamaica' is indicative of the mood of the whole album. 'Anything' and 'Floor Basics' are straight-to the-dancefloor barnstormers, and the title track collaboration with Jez Williams of Doves fame is an absorption of guitar-based splendour and wonderment. 'Miles and Miles' wouldn't be out of place in a Moby record, and 'Princess' is of a similar ilk. De La Soul's Pos' breezy contribution to new single 'Show Me' is both relaxing and stimulating at the same time, and '54' revs the engine of this album up a notch. 'I Don't Know' is a similar feet-tapper, and 'Always Welcome' is simply heart-warming. Can't decide what to listen to after a hard night out clubbing? Mint Royale have got the perfect solution to your problem. Ricky"
