In 1979, A Certain Ratio became the first band to have a single released by Factory Records. But with Tony Wilson managing the band, their sinuous brand of post-punk funk was destined (or doomed) to cult classic status. Thirty-odd years on, lead singer Jez Kerr’s first solo album reflects his longstanding love affair with Brian Eno, Kraftwerk and hypnotic faux-jazz grooves. Wiry opener ‘Rip You Right Back’ is a mechanical beat and Kerr’s half-whispered monotone vocal, but, unfortunately, much of what followers is turgid dance muzak, riddled with clumsy lyrics and ropey reference points – indeed ‘Inland’ sounds like The Farm trying chillwave. Not good.
4/10
Words by JOHN FREEMAN
