Let's keep it real – for many of you, the British band Jamiroquai boogied onto the scene in 1997 through what can be described as a crazed acid trip - a man with a tall black hat and a vintage soul voice navigating around a rotating room with crawling bugs! However, their new release, 'High Times: Singles 1992 – 2006' proves that the seeds of Jamiroquai were planted deeper. This release is a just a brief outline of their (singer Jay Kay AND the band) amazing career. There's so much more to be unearthed outside of these chosen few, too. This 19-track CD spans all six studio albums, transporting listeners back to where it all began, the blessing and curse of international success, and how - after 15 years - they are still groovin'.

For those that didn't know Jamiroquai existed in the early 90's, this release will expose hidden gems and rare instruments, such as the didgeridoo heard on "When You Gonna Learn," and the brass and keys connection on the beautiful acid jazz tune, "Blow Your Mind" (originally an 8 minute track). Both are from their debut release. The revolutionary Acid Jazz era laid the foundation for the band's distinct fusion of various musical genres and cultures. Their sound was further defined with the release of their second album in 1995, which is the beginning of what fans refer to as Jamiroquai's golden years. Choosing to sing about his love affair with cheeba cheeba (weed) in "Space Cowboy" (the video version is on this CD), the track enforced Kay's belief in freedom of expression at all costs. MTV banned the video and many stations refused to play the song. After listening to the raw vocals over top of the heavy bass lines and perfectly timed drums, the rejection was clearly the mainstream's loss. One or two more songs from this album would have been nice, but there had to be room for the multi-platinum success that was around the corner with 1997's studio release, 'Traveling Without Moving' – the time period in which they carved their buffalo man logo into the American music mainstream and underground society.


The smooth nature of "Virtual Insanity" fills ears with thought-provoking lyrics and memorable music that led to a groundbreaking video that won not only awards, but earned Jamiroquai universal respect and turned Kay into an international superstar. Now when I listen to "Virtual Insanity,” it hits that this song was very applicable for the late 90's, but is also relevant in the world today. It's fitting that "Alright" is also included - not only was the original and remixes a hit with DJ's, but it has turned into an unofficial Jamiroquai concert anthem. Both songs are without their introductions on this release, however the vibe still remains. Along with the triumph came many challenges including living up to the third album hype. That pressure was conveyed on 'Canned Heat,' an electric, slightly disco spirited song that gives permission (actually commandment) to dance. It also provides a preview of the transition from the original formula to the new phase of experimentation with more of an electronic influence. That new sound was contagious on the fifth and sixth releases.

Several tracks from the fifth album are included such as "Little L" (*clap clap*), and self-discovery ballad, "Corner of the Earth.” 2005's studio release, 'Dynamite' is represented through innocent summer track, "Seven Days in Sunny June,” the dirty grind of "Feels Just Like It Should", and anti-prejudice anthem, "(Don't) Give Hate A Chance".

And for those dedicated fans that have every track in their collection already, check it - there are 2 new tracks placed at the end! First up is "Runaway," a dance song that sarcastically communicates leaving behind the fame. And second is "Radio," a gritty, rock-influenced number surrounding sexuality, where lust and curiosity are hidden inside suggestive lyrics. Something else to grin about is the separate 'High Times: Singles 1992 – 2006' DVD that contains a series of Jamiroquai videos and interviews. Considering the band doesn't get airplay in the States, the release of this DVD is beyond dope.

Looking back, 15 years is a lot to digest. 'High Times: Singles 1992 – 2006' is the first layer to discovering what lies beneath the tabloid gossip, member changes, style modifications, and the struggle of trying to make a living off of what you love, without losing your love for it. Kay insists that although the record deal is over, there is more ear candy in store that will see Jamiroquai returning to the element of live instrumentation. No one knows exactly when that will happen, and it really doesn't matter. For now, I'll put on my headphones, reminisce, and thank God for blessing me with these high times.