I'm of the opinion that Spoon is flat out the best rock band in America, but I am still warming up to their new one. Reviewing it for Pitchfork, Awl contributor Matthew Perpetua says, "Following the creative strides made on their last few Merge releases, the only big surprise on Transference is that they've become willing to let their hair down a bit. It can be a bit of a let down if you come in expecting another blockbuster like Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga, but something of a revelation if you meet them halfway." So I guess I'll try that!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
7
If, like me, you don't want to sign up for "lala" (ugh) the whole album is streamed on the NPR site.
It's a lot less slick than their last few releases, but the really raw moments stick with you. It's got the same tense, restrained Spoon arrangements you're used to, but stretches of it sound like they were recorded in the bathroom at a dive bar. I'm warming up to it quickly.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=122279793
It's not an immediate love, but you're right, you do warm up to it. Also, I just learned the album is $3.99 on amazon today so I might actually put money towards actually purchasing it, it's worth further listening.
I love demos and home recording and Spoon but it just doesn't work for me, at least not yet. The production is as clever as ever but I don't think the songs are there for the most part -- one of the songs just sounds like a shittier version of "Don't Make Me A Target" from the last album.
I'm still trying to figure out Fitted Shirt. Is that a pro-Dad song, or pro-hand-me-downs, or what? And if it's either of those first two, is it still rock?
Poppers in high school
To quote Neil Tennant, they make a little go a very long way.
Oh I am such an evangelist for this ish. Fucking love it.