Rating:
Genre:
Rock
Release Date: 05/06/2003
Three years after the sonic honey of
Mass Romantic,
the New Pornographers come up smiling once more with their sophomore effort and
Matador debut,
Electric Version. These beloved indie rockers stick with the syrupy goodness found on their first album, but opt to turn the amps up for a brighter, slicker sound, hence the title. It's a kitschy play on the band's
power pop, and
Carl Newman and secret member
Dan Bejar keep their clever lyrical twists in tune. Twiddling riffs and organs dance with
Neko Case's sunny harmonies on the rollicking
"It's Only Divine Right" and
"From Blown Speakers." The energy is there, but
Electric Version captures a new kind of energy from
the New Pornographers. While
Mass Romantic was a little more quirky in spirit,
Electric Version is more polished. They took just under a year to create this album, so naturally a fresh confidence would transpire and
"The Laws Have Changed" highlights
the New Pornographers' musical growth. This album standout is bold as brass, drenched in
Case and
Newman's perky vocals.
"All for Swinging You Around" takes things further with wacky synth beats and tripped-up percussion,
Velocity Girl-style, but its the band's own glossed-over
rock & roll on
"Miss Teen Worldpower" that truly represents the smooth emotion and might behind
the New Pornographers' sound.
Electric Version is an enjoyable and easy listen, chock-full of hungry hooks and brimming with
indie rock's classic humility.
~MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide
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