REVIEW: Oasis, "D'You Know What I Mean" single (Creation UK)

- Tim Kennedy

Oasis break their '97 duck with a brash stadium sound that is light years from their last 1996 single - "Don't Look Back In Anger". The production is more heavy-handed than before, though it is the by now usual team of Noel and Owen Morris at the controls. In the mix there is backmasking, and various percussive effects which continue for some time before launching into the song. The drumbeat is loud, loping, almost hip-hop, but the tune bears distinct hallmarks of Noel in upbeat mood. It is a strident, almost marching type of tune. With its dance beat and use of samples, this could be the start of a new direction for the band.

The second song on the CD, "Stay Young" is a more traditional Oasis number which seems to be something of a personal anthem - "Stay young and unstoppable, cos we know just what we are". The structure is more simple and straightforward, and more fun.

Next up is the almost-obligatory acoustic demo by Noel, "Angel Child", which gets better with each listen - one of his best. His ability to write great songs is undimmed. Noel also sings on a cover of Bowie's "Heroes" which unlikely as it sounds is the most immediate work on this CD. It is a rework very much in the mold of Oasis, and could become a live favourite.