Ay!

So, after a longer-than-intended break from teh blogoshphere, I am back. Somehow, I managed to make it back to Dallas without my computer charger or information about studying abroad- probably the only two things I actually needed to bring. Oh well, Sarah lent me her charger! Also, I finally committed the time/energy to going to Ikea and getting furniture for my apartment. I ended up getting some pretty basic, cool stuff. Thanks to my current living situation, storage became important for the first time in my life. I got a 4x4 shelving/desk unit in black/white and i'll surely upload a picture when I'm in my apartment.

Sonically, my last few days have been filled with Dirty Projectors. Bitte Orca, if you haven't heard it, is ridiculously great. This venture, the Projectors find themselves experimenting with the sound they developed on Rise Above. Of course the chaotic harmonies and guitar are present, but this album sees the band playing with synth and rhythmn like never before. With the addition of a second female vocalist, the band's overall sound has gained an ALMOST gospel vibe. "Cannibal Resource" and "Temecula Sunrise" are the first two tracks and begin the album with a guitar-based, upbeat sound. "Stillness is the Move" is the band's choice for lead single, and not a bad one at that. Though David is vocally absent from the song, his sitar-like guitar juxtaposes the Mariah-esque singing of Angel and Amber in a way that only the Projectors can achieve. To me, the album actually kicks in after what is personally my least favorite song on the album, "2 Doves." "Useful Chamber," on the other hand, could be my favorite song this band's produced yet. Immediately, ever-present synths carry you into a dreamy, dance stage that leads you to the crashing guitars DP are synonymous with. To me, this is the peak of what Dirty Projectors are- too angry to seem reclusive, and too pretty to ACTUALLY sound dirty.  Though this album isn't for everyone, I absolutely recommend you give "Stillness is the Move" a chance- it's absolutely one of the most interesting songs I've heard. 

Here is a link to a free download of "Stillness is the Move," courtesy of Domino Records. THANKS, FRIENDS.