A Philosophical Intro (if you skip this, I won’t cry too much)
Before I start vomiting opinions and music terminology, I actually want to tell you what MGMT’s motive behind this album was. In an interview, Ben Goldwasser (part of the MGMT duo) said, “There definitely isn’t a ‘Time to Pretend’ or a ‘Kids’ on the album. We’ve been talking about ways to make sure people hear the album as an album in order and not just figure out what are the best three tracks, download those and not listen to the rest of it.” This leads me to an interesting realization in music today.
I can’t really say if this is good or bad issue but nowadays, people want the best songs from an artist and usually ONLY those particular songs. So now we have tons of hit songs but hardly any full albums. I know I’m guilty of searching the internet for those top hits and dumping the rest like unused napkins from an In-N-Out bag. So are we now just too lazy to actually listen to an entire album or have artists today lost the ability to make a great, full album? You be the judge of that.
A Childish Attempt at Psychedelic Rock?
One thing is for sure – nobody was expecting this from MGMT. After those tremendous hit songs from their first album, I was totally ready for another top of the charts smash hit, complete with pulsing synths and catchy lyrics about the wonders of childhood (thats a reference to “Kids”, ha). NO. Don’t you dare expect that.
Well say goodbye to the Urban Outfitters soundtrack and get ready for MGMT’s homemade psychedelic mushrooms. This album is definitely a strange mix of styles and influences.
“Siberian Breaks” – the 12 minutes long song (holy crap) kicks off sounding exactly like any song from Kings of Convenience.
“Congratulations” – this slow and sad ballad sounds incredibly Beatles-esque. Maybe too much?
“Flash Delirium” – the so called “taster” for the rest of the album makes me shake my head in disbelief because it sounds so much like Arcade Fire in many parts.
“I Found a Whistle” – perhaps I am the only one to think this but I am strangely reminded of Animal Collective. A very pop and much less repetitive Animal Collective but still.
Verdict – 2 and a half shrooms
The album is interesting. No smash hits. If you want some strange tunes with that good old psychedelic feel (well, almost) then I would recommend MGMT’s “Congratulations.”
-Ryan Davis
“urban outfitters soundtrack” haha. i was just there a few weeks ago and they were playing Congratulations, just sayin.a “childish” attempt at psychedelic rock? harsh! i disagree though – i think they nailed it and the album is reminiscent of early pink floyd. definitely a record that shows great talent and promise. i dont get the ubiquitous “critique” that this new mgmt album doesnt sound like their last one. um, so what? one of the reasons for radiohead’s thriving longevity is because they switch it up. it doesnt have to be Kids or nothing. regardless, enjoyed reading your review. nice job. ! see ya at work biotch.