Producers Paul Daley and Neil Barnes surprised the (dance) world in 1995 with their debut album Leftism. Leftfield's second album, which took four years to come, doesn't sound as revolutionary as it was then, but it is just a strong, especially varied dance record. He opens with the square funked Dusted, with raps from Roots Manuva, and goes up a gear with the instrumental, big beat-like Phat Planet.
Daley and Barnes completely open the electronic box of tricks in the atmospheric Swords, sung by Nicole Willis. Dub reggae, ambient and over-the-top house are the other styles that pass in revue on Rhythm And Stealth. The uplifting Africa Shox is, thanks to the contribution of Afrika Bambaataa, the best song on the CD. (WvdZ)more
