Avalanches - Since I Left You

"People think you buy a sampler and away you go, you turn into DJ Shadow or something,” said The Avalanches Robbie Charter of those who thought the Aussies were just mixing a few records together. If DJ Shadow arguably delivered the album of the last decade by perfecting the art of sampling, then The Avalanches pushed it to the limit near the beginning of this one. Conservatively estimating the number of samples they used at 3,500, they could never be accused of cutting corners. The ultimate labour of love – although we have been waiting almost 10 years for its rumoured follow up – Since I Left You soars because it’s not as gimmicky as it really should be. Instead it’s as heartfelt and intimate as anything released since. (Padraic Halpin)