The Space Between

Album review

"I will always work under an alias. As Fyfe, I can say things that I wouldn't say or think, and I can go places that surprise people. It isn't an act, it isn't really me - it's something in between." Paul Dixon has always been admirably clear about his use of his stage names (which also include David's Lyre) and their purpose. They're just one more missile to throw at artistic conventions that he has already subjected to a serious battering. But even if the Londoner's favourite terrain is a classical formation (violin, piano and trumpet!) alongside electro-pop, one has to recognise that Fyfe is pretty eclectic in his tastes. That much was made abundantly clear by Control, his first work, released in 2015, with its powerful beats, striking vocals and heady vocals. The Space Between is still firmly rooted in electronic music that's soft like a caress and hot like a kiss. This time, Fyfe has achieved an even greater mastery of the pop side of his work with overpowering choruses, as with the single Love You More. Even when he opts for a more soul sound, like on Belong, he still gives the melody and the chorus the same treatment. This is a truly endearing second album from an artist who has never been afraid to show his inner vulnerability. © CM/Qobuz