LCD Soundsystem - '45:33'

The words epic, classic and innovative are used all too much these days. Yet this is exactly what springs to mind come the end of James Murphy’s latest styling from across the pond. Originally available through iTunes as download only, ‘45:33’ is the Nike-commissioned continuous mix designed to accompany a workout, 45 minutes and 33 seconds of ‘body music.’ Cue the alarm bells. Especially considering that LCD Soundsystem lead singer / head honcho Murphy is a self-styled ‘fat guy in a t-shirt.’ The bonus here is that ‘45:33’ comes in gusto with two B-Sides, ‘Freak Out/Starry Eyes’ and ‘Hippie Priest Bum-Out’, and a remix of ‘North American Scum.’

‘45:33’ is as thoroughly rewarding to the listener as it is a masterstroke in cunning but running to it is nigh impossible. The initial beat is not much past walking speed and doesn’t realise any pace until the thirty minute mark, intensity that lasts little over eight minutes. Far less 4/4 than expected, if your idea of exercise is power walking to Domino’s and back then this is the perfect musical accompaniment.

In truth, the complexities of this record can only really be appreciated sat on the settee, burning only enough calories to pour another Screwdriver and spark up a Benson. The build-up is fabulous, skiing cross-country as it does through a valley of trombone-punctuated jazzy disco, funky soft rock and more bass-lead probing punk-electro. The vocals are infrequent but timely including a glitter ball king and a druggy warped machinist. In fact, get your Asics ready before the final 8-minute comedown and this set is the perfect soundtrack to piling down the drink before you go out. The faster the BPM the faster you’ll drink. Not quite what Nike had in mind.

Released 12/11/07 on DFA.