Yeah Yeah Yeahs—Mosquito (Interscope) Release Date: April 16
I worship at the altar of Karen O, so this review should have a huge BIASED watermark; however, if you listen to the new album releasing on April 16 and don’t like it, maybe you shouldn’t read any more of my reviews ever. Karen O bathes in old Bikini Kill bathwater, and, as a result, angsty Rebel Grrrl grit-soaked rock pervades this album. “Mosquito” is such a mix of styles—a touch of gospel, punk, pop, rock, and even reggae—and it works. YYYs released “Sacrilege” as the first single; accompanied by a full choir, the song keeps calm until the end when it busts open the doors. “Under the Earth” is another great song in the vein of older YYYs. Like the last record, “Mosquito” was produced by Dave Sitek of TV on the Radio and Nick Launay. James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem fame also produces a track.
I’m getting my playlist for spring ready, and this entire album will be featured. Yeah Yeah Yeahs continue to bring it, each of their last three albums building upon the other. Karen O’s unique voice—hell, unique persona—makes “Mosquito” one of the best releases of early 2013. “Suck, suck, suck, your blood…” the spooky chant of the title track will stick with you. Oh, and as a side note, the homage to Garbage Pail Kids on the album’s cover couldn’t be any cooler.
Songs that don’t suck: “Under the Earth,” “Subway,” and “Sacrilege”
