Gnarls Barkley - St. Elsewhere

Rating: 4 out of 5
Reviewer: Neil

When I hear the hit single "Crazy" on the radio, I often wonder if it is brilliant or obnoxious. Do others hate this song, or love it for being abrasive and smooth at the same time, like I do? Having heard it as part of the entire album, I'm sure it is brilliant now.

St. Elsewhere is a great pop album. And a great soul r'n'b album too. And it's got some drum'n'bass in the mix. It's like a great combination of Gorillaz and Andre 3000. Danger Mouse, one of the two men behind Gnarls Barkley, produced the latest Gorillaz album, so that explains the similarity there. The other madman in this duo is Cee-Lo, whose voice helps define the distinct sound of the album. He sings with soulful agony and ecstasy.

The vocal chords and backing vocals often sound old school, while much of the music is modern and widely varied. "Transformer" is a fast drum'n'bass tune with fast vocal harmonies. "Gone Daddy Gone" is indie rock with soul. "Crazy" is driving pop with an unforgettable chorus. "The Last Time" is hands-clapping funk that demands to be performed live. There are just so many good songs. This album is hot.