12/Phoenix/Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Wolfgang…Amadeus…Phoenix?
Big names. Big words. Giant associations. Big shoes you’re stepping in there, Phoenix. Y’all really want to take it there?
Yes, yes, they do.
Track one, the vibrant yet worrisome Lisztomania, Thomas Mars and Co. rattle off a list of plusses, minuses, grievances, and everything that’s at stake when one embarks on a quest to produce the perfect pop(ular) song or LP. Interesting, seeing as how once this track draws to a close, and you dive deeper into the album, the process of producing something great and/or "pop-tastic" seems less and less like an arduous task, and more and more like something that comes naturally to this French foursome. This is rock and roll with a little bit of that pop sheen on the side. A 10track, 37 minute, razor sharp collection of punchy, rhythmic, toe-tappin’ jams that hit you right in the jugular, making the act of sitting still or not hummin’ along pretty much obsolete. Sometimes all you need is what is presented here, a guitar, some drums, a bass, and a few flourishes on the keys to get it right, to DO things right. Add clear expressive vocal turns and all is to the good. It’s that easy. Phoenix knows this, and knows it well, as they’ve created something so basic in design, yet so difficult for others to pull off on a regular basis. Wolfgang...Amadeus...Phoenix? Sure, why not. The proof is in the pudding.
KEY TRACKS: Lisztomania/1901/Lasso
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