Media Circus

• Artist: Format
• Rating:
• Release Date: 1994
• Genre: Rock

Review

Media Circus is the Fong brothers' noble attempt at a more guitar-based version of Brian Eno and David Byrne's My Life in the Bush of Ghosts. But rather than employ third-world accents and funk-centric rhythms like My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, Media Circus could have fit comfortably in the early '90s 4AD catalog, right alongside earlier cut-ups Colourbox and the less dubbier side of Dif Juz. Very informal sounding, the instrumental work seems to be borne of jam sessions -- playful, pleasant, and groove-heavy every now and then. The Bomb Squad's productions for Public Enemy's first few records show a definite influence on this record through the bobbing and weaving of the samples and random noise, and, like My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, there are no proper vocals. Any words are provided from the sampling of movies and radio broadcasts, including snippets of an interview with Public Enemy's Professor Griff. Some of the at-times thought provoking snippets (i.e. former U.S. President Bush announcing the attack on Iraq and Kuwait, dialogue on race relations, talk show bits) don't go well with the drum/bass/guitar instrumental accompaniment, but it's otherwise enjoyable, if not demanding of numerous listens and total immersion. ~ Andy Kellman, Rovi

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