Daft Punk- Random Access Memories

The words Epic and Disco are not two words that would normally be associated in the same sentence but in 2013, Daftpunk singlehandedly brought the 70’s back to the mainstream and disco… was epic again. Random access memories is a record that is classically Daftpunk, they weave a line between an experimental ‘prog’ band and mainstream wizards whilst at the same time bringing some of the best talents in the world together to collaborate with.

This collaboration serves as the foundation of the record, Nile Rogers and the band ‘Chic’ are the musical anchor for many of the Albums most commercially successful tracks, they bring such a sense of groove to each track but also sound fresh when played against the wash of musically benign pop records I hear so often these days. There is dynamic magic to the drums, bass, and guitars that come from real musicians with a wealth of experience. Having seen Nile Rogers and Chic together live at Bestival, (a relatively intimate festival held on the Isle of Wight in the UK) I was blown away by their live set. Together they were responsible for some huge hits including, ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’, ‘Everybody Dance’, ‘I want your love’ and ‘Good times’ and it was the launch of ‘ Random Access Memories’ that propelled both Nile Rogers and Chic to stardom once again.

The record sounds warm when compared with previous Daftpunk Albums, a mix of natural-sounding acoustic instruments and electronic sounds create an inviting balance that is never fatiguing. Each instrument is well placed in the mix and has its own space so I never had the impression that the mix was congested or that instruments were fighting for attention. What I adore about the record is the writing, it feels like there is a free form to the structure of many of the songs. In more than one case they feel like well constructed ‘Jams’ and are surprising in they’re length and variation whilst others feel operatic in their scope. Particular favorites include ‘Within’, ‘Lose Yourself to Dance’, ‘Touch’ and ‘Doin’ it right’.

In retrospect ‘Random Access Memories’ is one of my favorite records of the decade, a surprising album with such a high standard of songwriting and arrangement that it will keep you coming back to discover more. Listening to it through a good quality DAC and speakers on Tidal provides a richness and clarity to the sound which I found addictive, the bass has a fullness without being too over the top, the synths and effected vocals always sound warm and inviting and the hooks are fantastic, another ‘McPlaylist must have’ record for the archives. The greatest achievement with this record is that the more you listen, the more moments you will discover, a true modern classic.