Yeah Yeah Yeahs – It’s Blitz!
Release Date: March 31, 2009
Record Label: Interscope
Eclectic, eccentric, electric. Those are the three words I would use to describe the New York trio, Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Armed with one of the most charismatic lead singers in music, Karen O, the band blends avant-pop, dance, and New Wave into one delicious drink. The trio’s third full-length album, It’s Blitz!, is exactly what the title implies. Some tracks attack your senses, leaving buzzing and dizzy, while the others offer a gentler and more intimate side; taking your hand and aiding in your recovery from the initial frenzy. Like I said: eclectic, eccentric, and electric.
The throbbing buzz of Nick Zinner’s synths sets the tone for lead single and opening track, “Zero.” Karen O’s vocals go from smooth to frantic in a blink of an eye. “Heads Will Roll” captures the aura of the dance floor as Karen O declares that you “dance till you’re dead.” A huge electronic drumbeat from Brian Chase sets the pace while Zinner’s chunky riff sets the tone. “Soft Shock” is delicate yet has bite throughout, while the soft key tones of “Skeletons” paint the setting for Karen O to bare her soul.
“Dull Life” is anything but. While it starts out dark, the band really unleashes at the chorus and has the beast within take over. Zinner’s guitar growls while Karen O howls. This is the Yeah Yeah Yeahs are their best. The eerie “Runaway” feels like a cold shower, as each key strike gives off a haunting feel. Karen O sells it well too, as you can sense the desperation in her voice.
“Dragon Queen” incorporates a sassy undertone, while the closer, “Little Shadow,” begins with organ chords and an acoustic guitar riff that sounds like it’s being played at three in the morning. The dramatics pick up throughout the song, but Karen O keeps her voice soft; never overpowering the music, which, in turn, makes her voice the strongest element.
There is something for everyone on It’s Blitz!. You want to groove? Boom, check out “Zero” and “Heads Will Roll.” You want to sulk? “Runaway” is your answer. If you want to check out a hotel and completely trash it? Then “Dull Life” will be your theme music. Throughout their career, Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ have been referred to some of New York’s finest groups. Now, with It’s Blitz! in its arsenal, they are New York’s finest. This album will appeal to fans of The Killers all the way over to fans of MGMT. Don’t get blindsided by It’s Blitz!, pick up one of the best albums of 2009.
great record
but considering YYY's previous press release saying that Nick Zinner is "not using guitars" then all the times you mention "throbbing buzz" or "growl" of guitars, its actually mostly synthesizers
werd, good review though
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