Bunkka
Despite Paul Oakenfold's status as "the world's most successful DJ" (according to theGuinness Book of Records, no less), and producing bands like theHappy MondaysandU2,Bunkkais his first real stab at solo superstardom. Abandoning the podium trance with which he made his name,Bunkkasees Oakenfold marryingHybrid-like breakbeats with rock, hip-hop, and progressive house--not to mention a healthy dose of pop. Add an impressive list of guest vocalists--Tricky,Nelly Furtado,Ice Cube,Perry Farrell,Hunter S Thompson(!)--and a slew of radio-friendly tunes, and it soon becomes clear that Oakey has gone straight for the populist jugular. Fair enough, but no amount of star turns, catchy choruses, and occasional flashes of brilliance can hide the fact thatBunkkais fundamentally a patchy album. It occasionally pushes the right buttons, but its blunt, schizophrenic nature risks compromising Oakenfold's appeal with his traditional fan base.--Matt Anniss