September 21, 2008

Ra Ra Riot - The Rhumb Line (2008)

Ra Ra Riot’s 2008 release, The Rhumb Line, will sound mightily familiar to any of you who are acquainted with their 2007 self-titled EP. Four tracks are featured on both releases, arguably the best songs on the album, and only one or two of the additions really stand out. The best of the repeated tracks, “Ghost Under Rocks” and “Dying Is Fine,” have noticeably improved recording & production—less lo-fi garage band promo tape, more studio filtered cleanliness. The interesting additions are the Kate Bush cover "Suspended in Gaffa,” and “Oh, La,” which for a brief second I thought was an alternate lyrics cover of The Kook’s 2006 track “Ooh La” (notice the subtle difference… clever). If you enjoyed the 2007 EP release, which I did, I would definitely recommend this polished extension; however, be prepared for similarities throughout.

5 Comments:

awmercy said...

I'm glad you reviewed this. I love their EP and their sound, but I'm having trouble getting past having heard a lot of these songs before. The album just doesn't sound new.

Nightrain said...

Yep. That's the point I was trying to make. I look forward to seeing what they come up with for a sophomore album.

The Captain said...

Check out my interview with Mathieu Santos of Ra Ra Riot at captainmelody.blogspot.com

The Captain said...

Also, let me know if you want to link up.

awmercy said...

I appreciate the offer, but right now we aren't linked up with anyone. If we decide to list cool blogs, we'll be sure to list yours. Until then I've added your blog to my rss reader. Cheers.