Little People: We Are But Hunks Of Wood

     Way back in 2006, the English based DJ, Little People (AKA Laurent Clerc) released his debut masterpiece Mickey Mouse Operation.  While the album's dark thematic sound was raved by critics, poor promotion and Clerc's own malaise pushed the record, and his career off to the side. However, the ever growing musically accessibility of free internet radio resurrected Little People, as fans began to once again hear his unique sound.  Now, many years later, Little People comes out with his Sophomore effort, We Are But Hunks Of Wood.

      With its opening "Marzipan Children," Little People blazes a new trail for himself.  Gone are the minimalist drum and bass loops of the past, exchanged for a sweeping digital sounds.  The samples are virtually non-existent throughout the album, as that was his overlying problem with his previous work, along with the genre in general.  The album is far heavier on full electronic sounds and layered arrangements. The sweeping textures throughout We Are But Hunks Of Wood result in a far fuller, more complex, sound.  The basic tenants of Little People are present throughout the album, as it still waxes moody and emotive. We Are But Hunks of Wood simply expounds on Clerc's rookie effort, and shows a beautiful maturation.  We Are But Hunks Of Wood shows a revitalization of a brilliant DJ's career, as well as a beautiful set of mercurial electronic music.  As Laurent Clerc finds his sound and style, the electronic world can groove easy knowing that the wildly talented wunderkind is back.