Word: bandness
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...even with changes in structure and a couple new studio tricks, the songs on “Transference” succeed first and foremost because they are Spoon songs: crisp, tightly crafted, and catchy. Already with an unfathomable five great albums under their belt, the band continues to hone and perfect. “Who Makes Your Money” is the sleek slow-burner Daniel has been trying to write for years, with its midway shift from bass to guitar creating the album’s sublime peak. Even the least thrilling tracks on “Transference?...
...retain their visceral but heartfelt quality within an expanding thematic range. Encompassing anorexia, losing parents, meaningless sex, abuse, and loss of faith, as well as more well-trodden romantic territory, the topics at hand are far from cheerful. More than anything, though, the tonal shift comes down to the band further shedding their twee image for a noise-influenced, experimental, nearly anarchic sound foretold by guest appearances by members of Xiu Xiu and Parenthetical Girls...
...nasal vocals—that made Los Campesinos! likeable to begin with, but channels them into a two-minute blast of chaotic noise; a mash of throat-straining screeches and crackling guitar. “Plan A” is a statement—this is not the same band that, only two years ago, winnowed their way into the hearts of listeners with a chorus of “It’s you! It’s me! And it’s dancing...
...debate, but singles “There Are Listed Buildings” and “Romance is Boring,” as well as blogosphere hit “The Sea is a Good Place To Think of the Future” show the band haven’t lost their touch for delightfully edgy pop songs. The title track in particular will be causing plenty of lost voices at Campesinos! concerts with its rollicking, gleefully tongue-in-cheek chorus of “You’re pouting in your sleep / I’m awake still yawning...
...Romance is Boring” is how much Los Campesinos! have matured. Instead of shying away from the essential disaffectedness which has always defined their albums, they have embraced it musically as well as lyrically, with a noisy, lo-fi aesthetic which is a natural fit for the band. As they become more comfortable with their new skin, it isn’t hard to imagine Los Campesinos! releasing a truly great noise-pop album. But even this slightly tentative effort doesn’t leave much room for complaint...