Cookshop present the debut album from Lost Idol. Whilst previous material has kept things rooted in the cinematic-instrumental vein, Lost Idol was keen to explore further musical possibilities. Described as 'classic Beck remixed by DJ Shadow' and 'Beta Band style alt-folk' this record is a unique musical journey of great depth and beauty, veering unashamedly from psychedelic pop to late night electronics. It bears just as much influence from artists such as Brian Wilson, Syd Barrett era Pink Floyd and John Coltrane as it does contemporary musicians such as The Beta Band, Beck and Four Tet. It's an amalgamation of new and old, instrumental and vocal, analogue and digital.
Brighton-based musician, DJ and producer James Dean began making music under the Lost Idol moniker five years ago. Lost Idol's early creations pricked up the ears of cult independent label Pork Recordings who released a couple of tracks on their Dubplates From The Lamp compilations. Since then Lost Idol went on to setup the Cookshop record label with fellow artist La Femme (Emily Cracknell) as an unrestrictive vehicle for releasing not only his own music, but also others who were righteously digging their own field.
'For my music I try to find a balance between the live and technological side; I endeavor to make my music sound as live and organic as possible but always keeping that edge on the production...ultimately I hope it reflects my tastes as a music lover and keeps people guessing as to what's going to come next.'
Lodown Magazine Feature, October 2004
Indeed unpredictable it may be, but despite the variety of styles employed there's still a common thread of melancholy beauty running throughout the album, reflected in both the melodies and the lyrics. 'Buckled' deals with the daily humdrum and banality of city living, whilst 'When I Were Young' laments on the unavoidable coming of age, albeit in a disconcertingly upbeat manner. Elsewhere themes of loss and regret arise ('Ugly Day' and 'Tread Water') all adding up to make this feel like a very personal and frank record, and one that we hope will keep listeners company well into the winter months ahead.
The only question that remains is what Lost Idol will do next'and to that, your guess is as good as ours.'