Second single off his forth (and most mature) album. He can only get better and better. Throughout the recording process, Mike Sinner made it known that he dropped from sampling loops to using live instruments. The hymn-like chorus glazes over the song very well.
It was since this album that got me hooked on the Gorillaz. The keyboard + strings interlude is absolutely glorious.
It's unapologetic, minimalist hip hop. This duo really reminds me of Clipse but less "drug pushing" and more "partying". The lyrics are aimed perfectly for the career-less, financially unstable youth. Like me.
This song may not be the best representation of Andrew Bird, but it shows what he does best. He is a minimalist, and on this particular album, a multi-instrumentalist. Violin, vocals, guitar, whistling, he does it all. You have to bear the first few minutes of this song as it aggrandizes into an incredible finale. A sadder, but great "Happy Birthday" alternative.
Pop rock at it's best. Although he has millions of great singles, I think Me and Mia edges them all to take first place.
Too bad this duo broke up after just one full length record. (remixes don't count). They actually make the bass and drum combination work, and the energy they put into their shows is like no other. This track is about moving away from the city to the suburbs and loosing all the things that you held dear to. Tragic, but oddly dance-able.
They really tried with this album. The band really put effort into evolving as opposed to producing the same sounds that made them famous in the first place. Many write them off now as being too experimental. You have to hand it to them, their music may not jive upon first listen, but it does grow on you. This track hits the climax at the 2:19 mark.
Nothing flashy. There is a few good rhythmic changes mid-chorus if you can spot it. But simplicity makes way for lyrics to shine and Brendan just confesses his utmost inner insecurity with life through this song.
