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I find it important at the start of this review
to note the difference between maturity and getting
old. While both are virtually the same thing, some
very important distinctions separate these two.
It is smack dab in the middle of these two connotations
that the latest release from Benny Benassi,
Rock 'N' Rave, finds
me.
Backtracking, who can forget the first time you
heard Benny Benassi? Undoubtedly, it was his worldwide
hit single, "Satisfaction," with its
video of jiggly models using power tools and what
not. If that wasn't enough, it garnered heavy
support from the heavy-hitters of house music,
turning Benny Benassi into an instant electro-house
master.
Shortly thereafter, he formed Benassi Bros. with
cousin Alle, placing more emphasis
on the two Biz vocalists (of Benny Benassi pres.
The Biz), Paul French and Violeta,
as well as other guest singers. With several projects
such as these, DJ events all over the world and
remixes for artists like Outkast, Goldfrapp and
Felix Da Housecat, Mr. Benassi has been a very
busy man since he got his "Satisfaction."
As we come to his new release, Rock 'N' Rave,
it's hard to tell whether this is just getting
old or not. I'd like to have that same sentimental
feeling that "Satisfaction" still evokes,
but I find it difficult with this album. That's
not to say that the album is free of any Benassi
greatness. Tracks like the album-opener "Finger
Food" and "Shocking Silence" feat.
Dino provide some definite high
energy without overwhelming you with funkiness,
while "Love and Motion" feat. Christian
Burns provides a much needed break with
its subdued (for Benassi) and melodic kinda-rock
vibe.
Now by many accounts, Benny Benassi is the father
of modern electro-house music. But quite honestly,
Rock 'N' Rave was just plain exhausting
at many points. I know, it's difficult to expect
anything different from one of the highest energy
DJ's in the field, but I feel that tracks like
the first single from the album "I Am Not
Drunk" (coincidentally... or not, this woozy
synth exercise felt nauseatingly drunk) and the
unnecessarily cheesy "Free Your Mind"
prove my point. "Come Fly Away" feat.
Channing was so very close to loveable, but again
was sullied by that filthy synth.
It’s not that Benny totally struck out
with this album; it’s just a bit tired at
this point. Sorry, still love ya guy!
DJ's: Disc two does provide some very playable
mixes of "Everybody Everybody" by Black
Box (remember?) and the Grammy winning remix of
"Bring the Noise" by none other than
Public Enemy.
Benny Benassi's Rock 'N' Rave
is out now on Ultra Records.
www.bennybenassi.com
www.myspace.com/benassi
-Joshua Jones July 9, 2008
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