Dot Allison
" We Are Science"
(Mantra)

Those who have been fortunate enough to catch Dot on her recent tour in support of this record will realize at once what a strong set of songs she has here and how powerful her voice really is. She performed a short acoustic set that firmly established her as a master of both melody and lyric. Her voice and a guitar were all that she needed to make magic.

Which makes it all the more strange that the record itself is a mostly electronic affair that buries the songs and her voice in the mix. Rhythm and texture are the order of the day here. This isn't to say it is a bad album, just a disheartening one given the artist's obvious strengths.

Taken on its own merits, the disc is a success. Dot presents a subtle and varied collection of technology driven tunes; no small accomplishment given how many people fail to rise above mediocrity in this genre. Dance beats inform, but don't dominate the album. Wisely, Allison chooses to use them as a tool rather than a destination

Fans of 4AD and Projekt bands will find a lot to love here. "Performance" and "I Think I Love You" especially recall ambient and darkwave sounds. "Wishing Stone" alone approximates some of the power of her live act and stands out stylistically from the rest of the record. A very nice collection.

The US edition adds two bonus tracks not listed on the CD case. Both are remixes of album tracks; entertaining, but not vital.

-Chris Fowler