My Murdered Remains
Idlewild, 2018
8/10
In the nearly 40 years that They Might Be Giants have existed, John Flansburgh and John Linnell have made some of the most interesting music in the area of alt-rock, and this 21st studio album continues the tradition with tunes culled from ther 2018 Dial-A-Song service.
The 16 track listen starts with the bouncy and upbeat “The Communists Have The Music”, where pianos enter the playful melodies, and “I’ve Been Seeing Things” follows with some fun guitar crunch in the quirky rock anthem.
Further along, “Selectionist” brings a busy display of varied talent with some electronica ideas, while “I Haven’t Been Right Yet” utilizes synth along with strong percussion and plenty of energy. “The Bullies”, one of the record’s best, then finds the legends flirting with prog-ideas as their creative prowess soars high.
Near the end, “Tick Tick Tick” recruits a darker quality but is possibly one of the most catchy tunes of the batch with well timed enunciation, and “Best Regrets” exits the listen moody, with spirited guitar work that enters post-punk territory.
If you’re like me, and 16 tracks just isn’t enough, the bonus CD, More Murdered Remains, provides more Dial-A-Song cuts, and is certainly a must hear for the diehard fans.
Travels well with: R. Stevie Moore- Afterlife; The Flaming Lips- King’s Mouth Music And Songs