“The side project of Rich Bennett from Monocle makes music that brings together the sophisticated pop soundtracks of Burt Bacharach and Ennio Morricone with the electronic detail of Stereolab and Delia Derbyshire. Debut release ‘Music For Underwater Supermarkets’ features full tracks embellished with horns, vibraphone and flutes divided by minimal soundscape experiments. It works well, providing a respite to either style and keeping ears turned on. If you’re a fan of retro-futurist pop such as the High Llamas then this will be up your aisle.”

Proper Songs

Excerpt: “The album retains many of the softer sensibilities that his other outfit [Monocle] displays, but keeps them on an even more cerebral level, free of vocals and full of jazzy, nuanced explorations… The album contains no filler – each track, no matter its length, supports its weight in the precious sequencing that defines a large part of this record… a fuzzy trip through the cartoon movie soundtrack of Bennett’s psyche. Perhaps he was left waiting a little too long in his mother’s shopping cart, listening to MIDI versions of Stereolab at the market. Gazing upon an antiquated aquarium, he began to formulate his first thoughts of traversing the sonic boundaries of an Underwater Supermarket in his mind.”

Jezebel Music

Excerpt: “Normally the concept of background music for supermarkets would only entice advertising gurus to listen, yet this particular mini-album is attractive for two reasons. Firstly, it’s for ‘underwater’ supermarkets so it must sound a bit different and – more importantly – the music is performed by Rich Bennett, one of the key members of Monocle, whose superb Outer Sunset album was one of the highlights of last year… the real essential piece arrives at the album’s denouement as ‘The Underwater Supermarket’ itself makes its wistful, elegant presence felt; it’s a beautiful, mysterious track by anyone’s standards. Clearly this record won’t be the most demanding record you’ll hear this year but its tunes are ultimately involving. It also has enough hidden depth to dismiss any accusations that this is purely background music.”

Leonard’s Lair

Excerpt: “a hang-loose, loungy, dream-pop piece, quite elegant and gracious as it swirls its way with a simple yet efficient melody. A true little charmer, and I might dig up Monocle for a second chance as well. Looking forward to the rest of the mini…”

Luna Kafe