Expectations were certainly high after LCD Soundsystem’s self titled debut, but front man James Murphy easily exceeded them on his sophomore effort, Sound of Silver.
Murphy combines his witty lyrics with a blend of dance and rock music to create a very different sound. The result is a nine song indie rock tour de force that can hit you with catchy dance music on one track then bring you a moving pop song on the next.
While the 2005 debut showcased LCD Soundsystem’s significant musical talents, Sound of Silver establishes Murphy as a song writer. His lyrics are no longer carried by the dance beats, but have now become to the forefront of the song.
“All my Friends” and “North American Scum” are clearly the class of the record and will be on top of your playlist for months. The former is a 7:37 minute track that still leaves you wanting more because it’s lush music.
“North American Scum” uses much sparer dance music, but is carried by Murphy’s snide lyrics. This a party song executed perfectly with a steady beat, repetitious lyrics and something that you can’t put your finger on that requires you to turn the volume up.
Separating the two standout tracks is the mysterious “Someone Great,” an electronic-pop song that has upbeat music but clearly depressed lyrics. Murphy’s other earnest song, “New York, I Love You But You’re Bringing Me Down,” a whispered lullaby that that wavers between his love of the city and it’s depressing nature, ends the upbeat album on a low note.
The only song that is even the least bit disappointing, surprisingly, is the title track. In the song, The song consists of Murphy repeating one phrase in a monotone voice over a dance beat for 7:07. While the music certainly isn’t bad, it can’t carry the
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