A LIVELY MIND - OAKENFOLD
On his second artist album, Oakenfold appears at the crossroads of stylistic indecision. With nods to rock, dance, hip-hop and electronica, Oakenfold has created an eclectic song collection that does not always jell. While there are moments of pure bliss (the New Order-hued “No Compromise” featuring Spitfire), too many tracks meander aimlessly without finding the perfect beat. Actress Brittany Murphy holds her own on the lackluster “Faster Kill Pussycat,” while Pharrell is unable to save the paint-by-numbers “Sex ‘N’ Money.” Though the famed DJ’s mind is lively, it is lacking clarity. Ultimately, “A Lively Mind” spotlights an artist in transition. Perhaps when it comes time to record studio album three, Oakenfold’s vision will come into sharper focus. Billboard
