Congratulations

Artist: MGMT
Label: Sony Music
Website: whoismgmt.com

Initially when I heard that MGMT was telling everyone that Congratulations would possess no "real" singles, it never concerned me because let's face it - early on, I don't think anyone thought Oracular Spectacular [2007] had any "real" singles either.

Strategically it was genius because it automatically set you up thinking that Congratulations would simply avoid the sophomore slump just by being so unique. The record is different to a degree but actually it seems to be more of a lateral move that may actually be more musically defined then their debut.

Once again there are a multitude of styles clashing up against each other and on the lengthy 12 minute "Siberian Breaks" there are probably another four songs and directions melted together. There is the spacey, psychedelic and spooky "Lady Dada's Nightmare", the punk rock pogo of "Brian Eno" and the Beatlesque vocals in opening track "It's Working", that all combine to make up the diverse Congratulations.

This record may lose MGMT's band wagon listeners because the album is a creative indie work that succeeds more on its tracking order and does not have super standout songs like "Kids" or "Time To Pretend". What it does bring to the musical table is plenty of surprising catchy moments that sneak up on you and ultimately these moments will be the reason you return to Congratulations again and again!

Aidan Rox

For more of Aidan Rox's music reviews, check out The Fire Note