Jamie Lidell's live shows have given rise to instances of superb music journalism, and this his second studio album should prove no different - a superheated, super-soul affair that not only gratefully respects its sources but goes hand-in-glove with our messed-up day. In Lidell's own words: "What electronic music is lacking is just a cool song that's not trying to prove anything or compete in a sonic space race."

The first thing that strikes you about Multiply is Lidell himself, riding over the myriad of genre bending production is a voice so soulful and seductive that comparisons have been made to such legends as Otis Reading, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. He shows a brooding angst in ‘The City’, soulful introspection in ‘Music Will Not Last’ and an ability to diversify his voice permitting the listener to be intrigued and impressed. What makes this display of vocal talent even more incredible is the modest nature in which he’s presented the album; “This time I just want to present my daytime face" Lidell concludes, "to bring on something that people might want to play when they wake up in the morning, or at a barbeque”

Lidell’s production wizardry has never been in doubt but what is new this time round is the fact that its got the broadsheets, production freaks and soulful DJ circuit all going crazy at the same time. The album’s roots are generally blues and Motown era yet he quite happily takes excursions into the world of afrobeat complete with rhythm shifts and expert era drums and then sidesteps into Jamiroquai territory, only gutbucket funky, percussion spiked and minus the annoying front guy with all the cars. This is vigorous soul music sustained at an impressively high level. He’s too modest to admit it but Jamie Lidell has just revitalised contemporary music, bring on the barbeques.