Description:
Domino celebrated their tenth anniversary in the autumn of 2003 by releasing a two-disc compilation, World of Possibility, highlighting the acts that made the label’s name: the likes of Pavement, Smog and Sebadoh. In fact, many of their early releases were by American artists who in the US were signed to the like-minded Drag City label. Three years on, Domino have decided to showcase their newer British artists, such as Franz Ferdinand, Archie Bronson Outfit and The Television Personalities.
Which means?
Like Naomi Campbell sunbathing topless on a beach, Domino are displaying their wares. They’re showing off. Hence the brazen demonstration of their assets.
Is it much cop?
In common with DCI Tennison in Prime Suspect, this compilation is challenging and uncompromising. It’s an alpha male in a female’s body. And the figure in question is Helen Mirren’s tough cookie plainclothes policewoman, Jane.
How many good tracks?
13 out of 14. Named after a song on the Televisions Personalities’ comeback album, this compilation also features The TP’s ‘My Dark Places’ - one of many standout tracks. Others include Archie Bronson Outfit’s creepy ‘Dart For My Sweetheart’, an on-top-of-their-game Franz Ferdinand with ‘L. Wells’, and Test Icicles’ intoxicating ‘Circle Square Triangle’.
And the worst?
Tortoise and Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy’s misguided attempt to rescue ‘Daniel’ from its schmaltzy past. There was a time when Elton John could do no wrong. A time coinciding with the recording of ‘Daniel’.
Biggest disappointment?
Wot no Arctic Monkeys? Mr Television Personality himself, Dan Treacy, revealed in an interview that every time he visits the Domino offices they’re always playing the Sheffield whippersnappers on the stereo. So their absence from this compilation remains a conundrum even a champion Countdown contestant would struggle to solve.
Verdict:
Unlike Carlsberg, Domino do do compilations. They’re the best compilations in the world. No probably about it.
(5/5)