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I'm an author and freelance journalist, venturing into the world of 'blogs' for the first time. Although I usually write from dreams, these are purely formed from my own opinions, observations and general silliness. If you're feeling brave, why not read a couple? Or if you want to go back to the safety of nice, familiar books, venture back to the main site.


THE YEAH YEAH YEAHS - IT'S BLITZ! - Posted on 7/20/2009


I've practically raved about their recent single, 'Zero', so it was about time I actually listened to 'It's Blitz!' by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Described as 'Spectacular' by Q, I had some high hopes for this album, although it has been flagged as their pop album and, with the occasional exception, pop usually isn't in my comfort zone.

And to be perfectly honest, it did take me a few listens to really get into this album. I dont know why, maybe it was because I was distracted, and I had to really listen to it to appreciate the full sound, but when I did really listen probably about the third time I played the CD - I was really taken in.

The album starts off well with 'Zero' which I earlier said encompassed all that is good about today. This has to be my favourite track; it's fresh and exciting and heralds yet another new sound for the band. I was really excited for them when I first heard this song and then there's the video! Karen O's smile is radiant and that leather jacket is inspired!

But lets get down to the nitty gritty- the band have been known to change their sound in the past - for instance they really stormed onto the scene with 'Maps' 'Date with the Night' and 'Down Boy' and then later, 'Gold Lion', which I also enjoyed - I'm a fan of that. And this is definitely a big change from that.

'Heads Will Roll', second track, is very energetic, has some nice qualities but I wasn't so sure about this when I first heard it. I think this one has actually grown on me.

There's something nice about 'Soft Shock' too, although I can tell where some people are coming from when they describe this sound as 'new agey'.

'Skeletons', although slower, in my opinion, is another of my favourites from this album. It starts off quite powerfully and I love the sound of Karen's voice in this, although it's a far cry from the once raw Date with the Night sort of sound which took everyone by surprise back in the day.

The energy picks right back up again with 'Dull Life' which I can really get into. Can easily dance to this track, love it and then right onto 'Shame and Fortune'.

A nice piano ballad in 'Runaway' takes me a bit by surprise, but in a good way. It really picks up the power towards the middle, and the fresh sound carries right through.

'Dragon Queen' is very funky but again, in a good way, I am delighted with this. And 'Hysteric'? A very sweet song, sweet lyrics and a honey-like sound if I can get away with writing that!

The album finishes off rather nicely with 'Little Shadow', which is cute and full of feeling. Again, Karen's voice really makes this song and reminds me a bit of The Velvet Underground not sure why, possibly the simplicity mixed with the tones she brings out.

Although I didn't really expect this sound from them, somehow I think it actually fits. If you haven't listened to this yet do yourself a favour; buy this album. Although it's tough to admit it, the band seems to feel more at home here than ever, and you know what? I can't wait to hear what they do next.

I'm going to give this 9 out of 10 Yeah Yeah YES'S!

~B


Add a comment

Comment from Rina
Lol i've never heard of these but I checked a few out and didn't really pop out at me but I guess each to their own.. although saying that half the things I listen to I hate at first
Posted 7/20/2009



Comment from Matt
Great review, wasn't entirely sure about their new stuff.
Posted 7/20/2009



Comment from Nick
Cool stuff!
Posted 7/20/2009



Comment from Lisa_D
Yeah Yeah Yeahs rock!!!
Posted 7/21/2009



Comment from alice
Meh I'd give this a 5 out of 10.
Posted 7/21/2009



Comment from noel
this band is top class!
Posted 7/22/2009



Comment from ninja
I love this album, same with all their stuff - doesn't seem to matter that they change their sound I like them whatever they do :-)
Posted 7/28/2009



Comment from Tim
Good album
Posted 7/28/2009