Remember to wash your hands. That’s good advice right now, but it’s also an immediate reaction to being exposed to the grimy, seedy and scummy setting of The Night Chancers. For an album that is so murky, you have to say it’s immaculate.
Opener ‘I’m Not Your Dog’ is a throbbing electro-experience, cinematic in its style. ‘Samurai’ lounges and coquettishly simmers while ‘Daylight’ is the pause to say goodbye when the night clicks over to morning that the record deserves. For a 30-minute album, it’s tightly packed yet so neatly concise that there’s barely a wasted breath or misplaced sneer.
And yet, avoiding the melancholic yet sweet finale of ‘Daylight’ by bringing it back around with ‘Say Nothing’ not only creates a more fitting end to the record, but it also showcases Baxter’s skill as a writer; and as a voyeur of the human spirit.
There’s more voices, more sleaze, and lots more ways to immerse yourself in situations so vividly painted, and you’ll forever be looking over your shoulder to see who is creeping up behind. Baxter has always had a way with words
If you’re familiar with Baxter’s last few albums, prepare yourself for a record that’s at least as good as those, and one that bears repeated listening. If this is your first chance to sample the delights of Mr Dury, you’re in for a treat; and remember, Baxter loves you.
The Night Chancers is out now on Heavenly Recordings
