Not to be confused with the vapid, homogenous and much more popular (at least among less savvy European consumers -- the same ones that probably gave David Hasselhof some caricature of a singing career) work of the Blonde Dutchwoman also named "Anouk", the Anouk of "Automatik Kalamity" is from France, of Arab descent, sings in three languages, and has concocted an original blend of dub reggae, ska and electronica that dazzles as much with its basic instrumentation as it does with originality and clever lyrics. Many Lee Perry samples, of course, but one cannot do a decent reggae album without these. And the roots-ska feel of "Dog Day Afternoon" (Un Apres-Midi De Chien) are particularly amazing. I saw a video for this song on MTV Europe in a Swiss Hotel at three in the morning, and fell in love instantly. If you like Reggae, buy it! If you think French is a romantic language, buy it! It's good music to smooch to.

my roommate bought the cd and i liked it immediately. funky beats, reggae, and even nice sounding french language makes it a great cd. i guarantee you'll like it.

Great album, I agree. I've heard that it's produced by Manu Chao, which sounds quite plausible from the sound of the album. Those who like Chao will find this album well worth a listen.