Falling in-line just behind Daft Punk in the logical progression of Electro-House, The Looks (2006), the debut album by ex-DFA79 bassist Jesse F. Keeler and fellow Toronto-based DJ Al-P, is a academic example of perfect body-rock groove done up as hip-set party jams. It is clear that the duo listened to Homework far too often, and considering that Keeler came out of one of the most excitingly iconoclastic bands of the early Millenial, the album reeks with appropriated stylistics and stance. But it all works; the jittery keyboard flourishes, bordering on Miami Vice-esque cheesiness, mixed with a thick, spinal backbeat and bassline make these songs muscular but sensitive - the perfect sort of sensual and arousing mashup that makes anyone get on the dance floor. “Easy Love” is an instant classic, but it is much deeper tracks like “Street Justice” and “Neon Knights” that make The Looks such a study in perfect groovenomics.
Listen to “Easy Love” and “Work On You”
Download “The Looks”
