MOGWAI play the Phoenix April 26. See listing. Rating: NNNN
The album with the year’s best title is also the poppiest Scotland’s Mogwai have ever released. While their spacious, mostly instrumental music makes good use of dynamics (and reaches ear-bleeding volumes during live shows), they mark their label switch from Matador to Sub Pop with a lightness (as in absence of darkness, not bereft of weight) that’s refreshing.
Songs are shorter and quieter, with piano and organ balancing the archetypal guitar jams. And while heavily treated vocals make it difficult to hear the lyrics on George Square Thatcher Death Party, it’s still tempting to sing along. Mogwai also vocode the backing vocals of Mexican Grand Prix, whose danceable motorik rhythm and whispered words introduce a new level of sex appeal.
Top track: You’re Lionel Richie
