By nature I’m a very cynical person. It really takes a lot to move, compel, or inspire me in any extraordinary way. This jaded thinking has turned me into somewhat of a music snob, there I said it. But please, keep in mind that I don’t wear it on my sleeve. You’re not going to find me wearing tight jeans and thrift store clothing. I won’t be talking about how Death Cab was the best band since the Velvet Underground until they “sold out”. I have no trouble embracing mainstream music if it’s good. If you’re too pretentious to see that bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Tool are fucking awesome then you’re hopeless.
Vaguely known “indie rock” band TV on the Radio’s latest album “Dear Science” has a reached a higher plateau. The album is genre breaking, it’s unclassifiable, and it’s genius! While the band’s other albums were good, Dear Science is quite simply the best thing to come out in five years. Virtually all music fans will get something from this instant classic. The melodies are infectious, the beats make you want to shake your ass, and the harmony will sink right into your bones. The piano driven “Family Tree” is ambient, beautifully written, and mysteriously introspective. Kyp Malone softly sings /Were laying in the shadow of your family tree. Your haunted heart and me /as each new listen unearths new sounds hidden within the thick organic flow of harmounous layers. There are plenty of upbeat tracks too. “Shout Me Out” is a raw pop song with raucous buzzing guitars that are guaranteed to melt your face off! This album is something special, so do yourself a favor and pick it up.
