LCD Soundsystem, “American Dream”
Originally released: Friday, Sept. 1, jointly on DFA Records and Columbia Records. Available as a digital download in various formats, on compact disc, and as a double vinyl LP. Bundled vinyl versions from DFA, while supplies last, can include the record(s) plus a limited-edition tote bag or signed postcards/trading cards of each member of the band, if you’re into that sort of thing. Per usual, I recommend you pick it up from your local, independent record store. Support ALL local brick and mortars, but this sort especially. Please. Thanks.
This week’s review is a bit different. There are a couple releases this week from Merge Records that are likely worth checking out (Hiss Golden Messenger and The Shout Out Louds), English goth postpunks The Horrors have a record out entitled “V” and METZ, who I covered last week, has a killer release in “Strange Peace” out via Sub Pop. However, this latest LCD album has literally gotten better each time I’ve listened, and I may have been dismissive had I reviewed it earlier this month. “American Dream” is indeed fantastic and I doubt I would’ve been so complementary early on. Three weeks of semi-intent listening and returning have reminded me that DFA co-founder and LCD front person/creative-control/mastermind/evil genius James Murphy haven’t come close to losing a step in their four-ish-year hiatus. The acerbic, wry wit in his lyricism have hit me on levels I didn’t expect. Sonically, the record is strong as ever, as I believe he’s relented some of that control, with this record being more collaborative. I don’t recall a previous LCD record with this much writing credit going to various members of the band. You put that much talent in the same various studios around the country/world and it is no surprise the outcome is outstanding. Give this one some time. It’s a grower, to be certain.
Recommended for fans of contemplative, lyrically driven dance music and the threads that bind diverse artists, such as Talking Heads, Roxy Music, Can, Hot Chip, Arcade Fire, Kraftwerk, or Cut Copy.
Jon E. Lynch[email protected]
