Last Century Modern

Last Century Modern by DJ-programmer Towa Tei (formerly of Deee-Lite) is a truly cosmopolitan extravaganza, featuring influences, guest artists, and languages from all over the world. Hard-driving programmed beats and bass lines are in full force, but many songs, such as "Let Me Know" and the title track, make extensive use of live musicians and singers. Tei propels "Angel" and "Butterfly" with mercilessly fast rhythms while angelic female vocals provide a joyful contrast. Trumpeter Tom Browne plays on his own "Funkin' for Jamaica," a stylish remake featuring rapper and Beastie Boys collaborator Wizdom Life as well as the French vocal group Les Nubians. Other tracks, such as "Stretch Building Bamboo" and "CHATR," are inventive sound expressions, the latter employing the cutting-edge speech synthesizer of the same name. "A Ring" and "Congratulations!" join exotic jazzy riffs with obscure spoken-word fragments, complementing Tei's trademark quirky sense of humor. --Mark McCleerey