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It’s felt a long time coming for the darlings of drum n bass to follow up 2008's debut album. In that time, the ripples of interest surrounding Chase and Status have turned into tidal waves, not only from the public but with other artists, as C’n’S become probably drum’n’bass’ hottest property right now.
This is undoubtedly why the featured artists on ‘No More Idols’ reads like a who’s who of hot artists of the moment. Inevitable start point for this is ironically the end of the album, where 'End Credits' outlines both the melodic versatility and energy that have given Chase and Status their reputation. It’s also the track that did more than a few favours in launching Plan B's touchy-feely new career.
As such there’s a few other surprising artists on here lined up in hope of the Midas touch. White Lies track 'Embrace' is one such port of call, as well as being one of the best put together crossover tracks sine the whole Run DMC and Aerosmith thing.
Other contributions work to greater or lesser effect depending on your love of the artist. Cee Lo Green adds a sinister touch to 'Brixton Briefcase' while Dizzy Rascal drives things nice and grimey on 'Heavy'. However, 'Hitz' could have worked equally well without Tinie Tempah's stagnant rap clichés all over it, bringing the one dud perhaps to the album.
Arguably though, the standout tracks here are where the band go it alone. 'No Problem'. with its unique sample and tribal rhythm, stands a mile out talent-wise and shows Chase and Status put a little more thought into their music than some other d'n'b artists out there.
In this respect, ‘No More Idols’ lives up to its name in that it sets a benchmark for other acts to follow. Though what’s on offer here isn't entirely ground breaking (fans of Pendulum and The Prodigy will have twinges of recognition throughout) this doesn't take anything away from 'No More Idols'. There is a very good reason why Chase and Status have got so many great artists collaborating with them on here; their material speaks for itself and potentially stands up beautifully on its own. Yet in cases such as 'End Credits', the move to collaborate with other artists takes great tracks and pushes that over the edge to seminal.
Certainly worth the wait, this is an early contender for one of the albums of the year. Be prepared to hear a hell of a lot more from this album as the year goes on.
