Monaco (25th Anniversary expanded edition) vinyl

Between 1995 and 2000 Joy Division's Peter Hook and his collaborator David Potts formed Monaco and released two cracking albums. The second of which is now getting an anniversary release in the best possible audiophile quality. It didn't fare as well commercially as the first album, which had the hit 'What Do You Want From Me' and was more electronic in nature. But the janglier nature of this second record is a joy to delve into. 'I've Got A Feeling' has melodies to rival The La's and 'Kashmere' is a sign that in terms of production Monaco were operating on another level compared to most in the post-Britpop space. Meanwhile, hearing Hook's signature basslines throughout, but within a sonic bedding that you haven't quite heard him play before, is a compelling joy. Under-championed excellence here from Monaco.