Album Review: The D.O.T. – And That

We all know who Mike Skinner is right? The talented chap responsible for the incredible songwriting, as well as the production, behind the revolutionary UK band The Streets. But do we all know who Rob Harvey is? A few of you may remember him. He’s the shaggy haired lead singer from indie outfit The Music. Well, as it turns out the two of them met backstage at Big Bay Out back in 2005. Fast-forward seven years later and they have formed The D.O.T.

Their debut album, And That is very much a different venture from the norm for the duo that will certainly cater for fans of either artist’s. Skinner’s exceptional production on the record is a brilliant example of the guy’s talent and gives, And That a lot of listenable aspects, even if it’s just to admire the quality of the recording.

Harvey’s vocals are not too dissimilar to that of The Music, but it is refreshing to hear the singer out of the context of his rock group. When layered up with the addition of Skinner’s distinct backing vocals, it’s a surprising mix that happens to work very well. Throw in an unexpected guest appearance from US rapper Danny Brown and singer-songwriter Clare Maguire on the brilliant, ‘You Never’ and the record becomes more of an exciting fusion of concepts. It’s a sort of Indie-House-Dub genre you‘ll soon want to shake your hips to.

Think stadium rock vocals in a confined, underground House club. Probably way ahead of it’s time, one can’t help but wonder what it might sound like live..?

By Robert Bramhill

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