Labrinth

Labrinth - 'Electronic Earth' First Listen!

It's been 18 long months since Timothy McKenzie a.k.a. Labrinth Download released his debut solo single Let The Sun Shine, so here at  MTV we think it's fair to say his eagerly anticipated album Electronic Earth is long overdue.

Following his success with Tinie Tempah and being the only non-talent show act to be signed to Simon Cowell's SyCo record label, big things are expected of the 22-year old from Hackney - and his debut album doesn't disappoint.

Electronic Earth gives music lovers a glimpse at how Lab sees the world, with his love of all things Sci-fi proving to be a huge influence on his material, from the enticing opener Climb On Board to the closing ballad Vultures.

Climb On Board offers a suitable starting place for Labrinth's journey, splitting our eardrums with jungle beats and synths, before launching into Earthquake - which is arguably one of the biggest tracks of last year, showcasing his ability to produce one hell of an anthem.

Other highlights include new single Last Time with it's thumping bassline and catchy chorus and Treatment, which shows a more guitar-rock side to Lab - a sure fire hit in our eyes.

Electronic Earth also proves that Lab isn't afraid to take risks, with his cover of Charles Wright's Express Yourself a welcome surprise on the LP, featuring the cheeky lyrics: "I don't make the papers, I'm far from JLS/ Ain't got the X Factor, I'm not what they expect."

Living up to his nickname of the Heston Blumenthal of music, Labrinth also uses lyrics fromJoni Mitchell's Big Yellow Taxi on track Sundown, while Sweet Riot provides yet another dance anthem for those ravers out there.

However, the stand-out track on Electronic Earth comes in the form of Beneath Your Beautiful, which features the vocal talents of Brit Award winner, Emeli Sande.

The romantic ballad shows get yet another side to Labrinth, proving that as well as being a top producer, songwriter and musician, he can also belt out a tune, as his vocals go hand-in-hand with Emeli's - with the end result being the heartfelt duet.