James Figurine - Mistake Mistake Mistake Mistake (Plug Research, 2006)

How do you like your electronica? I like mine any number of ways, although perhaps my favourite type is Warm Electronica. Never heard of Warm Electronica? Don't worry, I just invented the term. I often find that a lot of electronica is just far too, well, electronic. It is too cold and inhuman, which makes it difficult for me to establish any sort of connection with it. This album does not suffer from that problem. James Figurine is perhaps more widely known by his real name, Jimmy Tamborello, whose is perhaps more widely known as one half of The Postal Service. He, being, of course, the half responsible for the music - as opposed to the lyrics and singing - of said group.
Warm Electronica is a more human form of electronica; it can be like your favourite blanket: warm, cozy and inviting. Its squeeks, beeps and beats are electronic, though it somehow manages to sound as though it has the warmth of an analogue recording.
The opening track of Mistake Mistake Mistake Mistake, 55566688833, is a tongue-in-cheek lament of cell/mobile phone politics (55566688833 being the numbers necessary to spell 'love' when text messaging), while Pretend It's A Race And I'm On Your Side, is playful and oddly poignant at the same time, with a layered, sprightly melody built around the refrain "When I say, don't walk away, pretend its a lie." Another highlight is the track Apologies, which offers the sage advice that apologies are in fact gifts, that should be accepted with a smile on your face.
All-in-all Mistake Mistake Mistake Mistake is a very cool album that has been receiving repeated plays in my stereo. If you are a fan of the electronic side of The Postal Service, this is definitely an album worth checking out. It also features some fine guest vocalists, including Jenny Lewis and King's Of Convenience's Erlend Oye.

Check Out: www.myspace.com/jamesfigurine