Is Merriweather Post Pavilion The Best Album Of 2009?
Looks like it. Sounds like it, too, if you spent your holiday with Animal Collective's latest on repeat like most everybody with torrent expertise. The album's out tomorrow but a couple reviews are already in, and they are glowing. SPIN went four-star style in a review from Andy Beta:
From [opening thumper "In The Flowers"] forward, these stalwart innovators ... elude all experimental-noise, freak-folk, and indie-rock tags, and create a startling, pounding, effulgent sonic template....Call it searching for the perfect peak. Merriweather plays like the summation of a long, strange trip, combining the group's career touchstones: harmonic Beach Boys pop, African tribal chants, minimalism, minimal techno, psychedelia, and dub.
Pitchforkmedia.com went a little higher.
In a 9.6 review, Mark Richardson demonstrated why he's a fan:
No one who's been looking forward to it should be disappointed. Everything that's defined the band to this point-- all those strands winding through their hugely diverse catalog-- is refined and amplified here...But Merriweather feels like a joyous meeting in a well-earned, middle place-- the result of all their explorations pieced together to create something accessible and complete...
Music obsessives talk a lot about originality-- whether it's important, or why having a new sound should or shouldn't matter. In recent years, some fantastic albums have turned a number of people off for being retreads, which has sparked some interesting discussions. This album, which finds Animal Collective completely owning their unique sound, feels like the crucial next step in that conversation. What they've constructed here is a new kind of electronic pop-- one which is machine-generated and revels in technology but is also deeply human, never drawing too much attention to its digital nature ... Animal Collective have spent the decade following their own path, figuring out what their music is capable of while also working to bring more listeners into their world. On Merriweather Post Pavilion, their commitment has paid off tremendously.
Beta and Richardson hit the beats right. It's true that the peak moments come in the previously leaked "Brother Sport," playing like a plea to a child to take her medicine as the sun comes up on a beachfront party, and the insanely catchy ode to domestic bliss "My Girls," on which they even found a way to make Avey's war cry a pinnacle pop moment. They're giving license to sideliners to jump on board, but the rest of the record supports and expands those Posts with singularly conceived aural ticks, composition, and arrangement, cutting a deep swath through the mess of music competing for ears in '09.
It's officially out tomorrow via Domino. Even if you have it already this one's worth "owning," if only as a drop in the tip jar. (Try the vinyl goodies.) But moreover: We're only a week into the new year and already we have an album that demands and rewards repeat, complete listening. What album stands a chance of replacing this one at #1 of 2009? On the up side, we've got some 360 days to go. On the flip, Merriweather's a masterstroke.
"My Girls"
Posted at 11:52 AM by amrit
Tags: Animal Collective
grizzly bear
Score = 13
Ed Droste seems to be a fan of this album.
Score = 15
Possible, but too early to tell consider the only song they have officially released to us is one that rips off the keyboard riff to a flippin' Wolf Parade song. All I'm saying is let's not get ahead of ourselves. Case in point: The Shins' "Wincing the Night Away."
Score = -30
LOL@thinking Grizzly Bear is ripping off an fucking Wolf Parade song
HAHAHAHA
Score = 7
yo, there's more grizzly bear hype in these comments than feedback on mpp. cheers.
'09 new releases > '08 new releases
Score = 17
animal collective
Score = 5
Let the battle for #2 on every year end list begin. Pitchfork graced the album with a 9.6. I guess I'll have to check it out, huh?
Score = 0
The moment when Pitchfork jumped the shark.
Score = 4
i think that was their review of Kid A.
Score = 0
i hope their new year's resolution was to put out an album later this year that's worth a 9.7, because...what?...only animal collective can beat animal collective.
Score = 11
fail.
they aren't god
Score = -53
MPP is fantastic. I'm one of the many who's had it on constant repeat. So excited to pick up my physical copy tomorrow. I've been an obssessive AC fan since before Sung Tongs and they're never letting us down are they?
That said, to answer your question, I say you'd better wait until you hear the new Grizzly Bear ;)
Score = 23
Wow, its only been 2009 for 5 days and the best album of the year has already been released? Exepctations and exictement destroyed, thanks Pitchfork!
Score = 4
fucking sublime.
and yes, here's to hoping that the new Grizzly Bear will be quite good as well.
but damn, this is great stuff. My Girls is soooo goood as well.
Score = 12
I think this makes Strawberry Jam seem like an awkward transitional album.
MPP is more along the lines of "Feels," a coherant/consistant trip through its own little world. The tracklist/pacing is spot on-- from the moment that In The Flowers kicks in with an explosion that blows your face into a smile, to the choice of Brothersport to remind us that this really is the first AC record
While it's obviously a bit early to really tell, this may be their best, most developed record by a fair margin. You can make an argument that Sung Tongs is more refreshing or that the Peacebone/RevGreen/Fireworks trio makes Strawberry Jam untouchable-- but they've been building to this here baby for the last three records.
The first five tracks are monsters in their own way. My Girls is a beautiful song with a simple premise-- and jesus, the "whooo!"s when the drums kick in during the chorus are fantastic. Perfect example of what can happen when Panda lets Avey play with his tracks.
Summertime Clothes has the same manic, yet lumbering vibe that made Peacebone so fun (even if they sound a bit similar). And Daily Routine carries that jarring, piercing sped-up synth on its back through the entire song-- and that's before you realize that it's supposed to be an alarm clock.
Blueish and Guys Eyes provide a great, needed mid-album sink into swampy layered soundscapes. While their equivilant tracks on old albums are sometimes throwaways, these are dense and lovely. Can we get these guys and Dave Sitek in a room together?
Taste and No More Runnin- fine, but I can do without. But that's what great about MPP-- even the album's relative low-lights have their moments. Take the even, slow, lazy exaultation of No More Runnin-- kind of like a space-y B-side from the back half of The Joshua Tree.
I like this album a lot, more so each of the last few times I have heard it. It's not going to change the future of music-- or even the minds of many who don't already understand the reasons why Animal Collective is making really stellar music.
But it's certainly everything most AC fans could have hoped for.
Score = 16
You try too hard.
Score = 7
You're probably right-- just trying to generate some discussion aside from "this album is great" vs. "no, this album sucks"
Score = 66
Your mom tried too hard.
Score = -14
Best of 2009? Seriously? Not even a week into 2009... The album is all right, but definitely not exceptional.
Score = -8
The album is a great welcoming back after the misstep of Strawberry Jam, which was awfully straightforward and synthetic sounding. Athough, I've been hearing a lot of chime about Merriweather being our generations Pet Sounds, which is just ignorant considering Merriweather isn't even Animal Collectives best album.
Score = -83
Animal Collective piss excellence.
Score = 26
grizzly bear, indeed.
Score = 13
I don't know, but THIS IS THE BEST COMMENT OF 2009!
Score = -66
Grizzly Bear will have the best album of the year
Score = 9
yup
Score = 1
Well, now that they have received these great reviews I suppose it's time to start the backlash. Who wants to commence the hate?
Score = 16
I want it to be the best. Please Grizzly Bear do not release a more pleasant album.
Score = -5
I think both bands are definitely expirimenting with new sounds and ideas, it's interesting to see how both bands have transformed since their beginnings, and it will be even more interesting to hear how Grizzly Bear's new album stands in relation to Yellow House, which a phenominal and timeless record, in my opinion.
Can't wait!
Score = 4
Not sure if it's the best album of 2009, it's been what 5 days. :) But in terms of Animal Collective albums it's one of their best, I'm really liking it a lot. If this is the precursor for music in 2009 I'm pretty excited, it should be a great year.
Score = 7
only one album could maybe top this album for the years best... and its panda bear
Score = 1
Naw AC fanamaniac, you just wrong about that.
Score = 0
Buns, I was going to say the exact same thing. Fucking hipsters....
Score = -9
haha hipster, i personally enjoy the panda bear version of guys eyes where u can really hear the zombies sample... that alone gets me excited for his new record
Score = 2
contrary to popular belief, avey has the best songs on this album. he's honestly never been better. the panda bear hype is a bit much.
Score = 4
Agreed-- Lion in a Coma is one of my favorites.
Score = 4
agreed lion in a coma es muy bueno!
Score = 2
Sometimes the high ratings on Pitchfork don't mean album of the year [even though this album is really, really fucking good]. The highest rated album on Pitchfork for 2007 was The Hold Steady's Boys + Girls in America, but they named Person Pitch album on the year. just sayin'
Score = 0
Boys and Girls in America came out in 2006. Person Pitch came out in 2007.
Score = 13
whoops! You're right! It was 2006, and it was The Knife that earned the best album title, even though it was given a 8.6, while The Hold Steady was given a 9.4 (or something like that)
Score = 3
Do you guys read NeoGaf? =p
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=342504
Score = -17
You fail, Gaffot. Get back to tugging to sales data.
Score = 1
tiny mix tapes has an awesome review... i don't work for them... also when people abbreviate with AC I keep thinking of Newman or of Air Conditioners, so thanks
Score = 2
When people abbreviate with AC, I keep thinking of loquacious grindcore stalwarts Anal Cunt, so thanks.
Score = 26
DIRTY PROJECTORS '09
Score = 5
Ew, how can you like them? They're much too poppy for my tastes.
Score = -14
I don't think people picked up on your sarcasm =/
Score = 3
Let me check the date.... hmmm, oh yeah, it's Monday, January 5th 2009! The year is just getting started. Calling an album released in january the best of the year is just plain ridiculous, if you ask me. You have no idea what the year will bring.
These are the kind of things that makes me seriously hate blogs and magazines every once in a while.
No, I have not listened to the album, I'm sure I will love it. My point is: it's too soon. Now if we were in say September then you can make such assertion with more certainty.
Score = -25
You're right, cos it wasn't clearly meant as a joke or anything.
Score = 13
Are you saying that every time someone cries out "best of the year!" before the final 3 months is joking? my bad, I wasn't in on it.
My point was that is completely annoying and somewhat pretentious, but Pitchfork gave it a 9.6 so I understand why everyone is getting their panties in a bunch.
What I like most about music is how personal it is. Just because a random person that works at some publication gave it a high score doesn't mean that it'll be your personal favorite at the end of the year, even if you really like it.
Don't misunderstand me, I'm a big AC fan. They are one of the few bands that manages to make music that sounds exciting to me, and I'm guessing this will be no less.
Score = -7
When someone cries out Best Of The Year on January 5th ... yes, they are clearly joking.
Score = 1
But it's Animal Collective and no one can top them.
Score = -5
I believe Mr. Yorke would beg to differ ...
Score = 4
regardless of how good this is, this hype is getting out of hand.
Score = 23
exactly!! pitchfork has become the NME of the US. this is ridiculous. people music needs some air to breathe, give it some time... album comes out tomorrow and seriously, already the best in 2009? I really wish i hadn't heard about this so i could listen to this without thinking of countless of idiots and pitchfork. unfortunately i can't.
Score = -11
I read P4K on a daily basis and I don't think they have hyped Merriweather's Post Pavillion more than, say Stereogum just by asking if MPP is the best of 2009. Mark Richardson wrote his personal review, gave it a 9.6, and never stated for him or the site he writes for it was the best album of 2009. Time will decide if for them this will be the album of the year. Do you want them to review albums some time after its release date? As many other music sites I am sure they get the promos before mostly everybody else who goes out to buy on the street date.
Score = 22
That might be true of Mark Richardson... but the same can not be said of Ian Cohen - http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/article/record_review/148232-black-rebel-motorcycle-club-the-effects-of-333
Score = 6
lmao i was beginning to think the review had nthing to do with MPP then at the very end...
"while it'll be surprising if we get a better record than Merriweather Post Pavilion in 2009, the odds are even longer that we'll see one as utterly pointless as the insanely inessential The Effects of 333."
lol why,,,,,,,,,,
Score = 2
HELP! HELP! Who is that in sarahspy's photo?!??! It's the cutest girl I've ever seen.
Score = 1
Until the next Panda Bear record comes out.
Score = 5
am i the only one that thought strawberry jam was better?
Score = 10
me too.. think the songs are stronger and less repetitive on strawberry jam. im not that crazy about the sound of this, it sort of sounds like listening to people cough in a waiting room after a while, just something you dont wanna be in. sounds cheaply made, in a rush too, less vital. theres nothing as exciting as reverend green, peacebone, leaf house or banshee beat to my ears on this. my girls is cool but also in some ways annoying. just an opinion, dont start wanking or shitting about it.
Score = -1
i just listened to Feels.. infinitely better, more likeable, human and beautiful than MMPP
Score = 0
really, the best album already? i suppose i just don't get it. it all sounds like bad controled noise and not music at all. which is cool if you are dropping acid on a daily basis or drinking mushroom tea, but to call this noise music or a great album is a mistake.
to say it rivals pet sounds...REALLY? i mean pet sounds had SONGS vs. sound colliages. i understand how people would think of this as new, but there have people doing soundscape noise for years. what makes AC so different from any of those people/bands?
it sounds like a retread to me of old stuff like d'Einsturzende Neubauten or Psychic TV and other noise artists.
Score = -17
NEW GRIZZLY BEAR
THAT IS ALL (andrew bird's latest is a bummer though, huh?)
Score = 7
its weird. i have a couple friends who seem to carry a similar opinion on both the album and the band which i find odd because i am the complete opposite. i do think though that its easy to find reasons not to like a band like animal collective, just as its easy to find reasons not to like a band like grizzly bear, that is when you listen to them with the thought that they have been called by so many THE BEST BAND EVER, or some other stupid tag. personally when i listen to animal collective and especially this album, i am more speechless than praise ready. of course i think this translates into it being brilliant but i would never go around with a group of friends telling everybody that ac is the best band or that mpp is the best album ever and insist they enjoy it as much as i have. im sorry though that ive been rambling, plus my english is not as great as it could be so if this made no to little sense i apologize. ANIMAL COLLECTIVE IS THE BEST!!!! (sarcasm...sorta)
Score = 0
OVER-RATED. (CLAP CLAP CLAP-CLAP-CLAP.)
Score = -21
I just want to add to the love train before the inevitable backlash (which, it seems, is unfortunately already beginning). This album is fantastic in every way possible.
Score = 4
john and paul of indie rock
Score = 2
That's rude to us Brian. Don't insult us
Score = 22
sorry. i'll go back to chasing balls.
Score = 0
No.
Score = 2
wow, for once somebody says something sensible, thanks, Alexhsu. I haven't head the album but that's the way I feel about everything I like
Score = -1
Yes. It is the best album of 2009.
Score = -4
prolly my favorite color is green
prolly my favorite candy bar is a snickers
prolly my favorite animal collective album is this one
Score = 13
ever eaten a Take 5?
i'm not one to trash the classics like snickers or butterfingers at all but, OH MAN, they are fantastic.
Score = 29
mmmmmm..take5.......
Score = 3
How can all you bastards be saying this is the best album of 2009 when you already stole it in 2008?
Score = 60
Best comment of 2010.
Score = 16
I am left a bit disappointed by MPP, seems to not be a really cohesive album. For example, when Brother Sport comes on, it totally ruins the vibe i had from No More Runnin. Not to say that Brother Sport isn't a great song (because it is great), but i don't really like the way the album was put together. That being said, I am without a doubt it will be in mine (and many other) top 10 lists at the end of the year. Also, My Girls is going to be in the running for song of the year...
Score = -5
If anything, No More Running ruins the vibe before Brother Sport. It's a decent song, but I think it is a bit out of place on the album. The album is awesome though. I'm already on the verge of playing it out.
Score = 1
They couldn't even wait for a week into the year to declare a winner.
Score = 1
As someone who:
1) really appreciates what Animal Collective do
2) thinks "Fireworks" is one of the 10 greatest songs of the decade
3) yet still can't really ever find the patience or desire to actually listen to Animal Collective for any length of time longer than 1 song
Would you guys 'n gals recommend this album? The reviews I've glanced at seem to use the word "accessible," but I can't help but feel like an accessible Animal Collective album is still too challenging for my pushing-middle-aged ears to process.
Score = 3
It's easily their most pop-friendly record, while still being unique and fairly experimental. If you like Fireworks, you'll probably like MPP.
Score = 7
can everybody at least agree that it's the best of album of 2009...thusfar?
Score = 36
Take these reviews with a grain of salt. Listen to it for yourself and draw your own conclusions. If you read one glowing review of an album from P4K and then go out and buy it, you're a fucking idiot. Fuck Buttons, for example, are probably the worst band I've ever heard and Stereogum and P4K are still on their nuts something ridiculous. Luckily, most of the time we get to hear a record before it's out now and we can figure out whether it's worth our money or not. MPP is a great record, but best album of 2009 is a stretch. We still have Spoon, Arcade Fire and Grizzly Bear on the way.
Score = 0
well said. i dont care for bon iver but everyone else wants to nuzzle his muzzle
Score = 3
Do Spoon and Arcade Fire have albums in the works? I mean officially?
Score = 5
Since when has music been a competitive sport? Surely we can listen to music without having to instantly draw conclusions about where it might be on our top albums list in 12 months? Music is an art, not a sport. These guys are making music because they love to create and enjoy writing and playing, they aren't trying to beat Grizzly Bear on a top 10 list. Why do we as fans have to approach there music so much differently than they do?
Score = 32
I wholeheartedly agree, music is not a competitive sport.
However, commenting on Stereogum seems to be.
Score = 6
one of the worst albums of the year
Score = -26
I have no idea whether I want to love or hate this album.
Score = 0
Spagett!
Score = 6
My penis blood - the Geraldo Rivera experience. A biopic into the hellish life of his God damn mustache and years of SHIT, dammit. Animal Collective star as the lovable next door neighbor, Herman (whose tits are a mythic ode to Jon fucking Voit). Barbara Walters ass, Barbara Walters shit and holy fucking hell - her tits too. Rated R for a scene involving mild sensuality and all sort of Ben Stein's money. Animal Collective return to the big screen while eating Barry Bonds alive. Forever.
Score = 24
^ BEST FILM OF 2009
Score = 18
Best album cover of 2009
Score = 2
This is no where near as goog as Sung Tongs or Feels. It all prettmuch sounds the same. The only half way decent tunes are Flowers, My Girls, and Brothersport because they are sorta actual songs and change a little. I think Purple Bottle is the best thing Animal Collcetive ever did...one of my fave songs ever in fact. They haven't done anything anywhere close to that since. Over rated.
Score = -19
One more thing. All you raving about this boring album are probably the same ones who like TV on the Radio Dear Science. And I thought that was the most over hyped annoying sounding album ever until I heard MPP. At least Dear Science had some variety.
Score = -34
i was never a huge fan of ac. a friend of a friend gave me sung tongs, i listened and put it away. i bought water curses and loved it now with mpp i must say it really is good, it led me to buy feels which is also great but i can see why people wont think mpp is the best of 2009. i mean its early there alot still to come. like most of you out there i'm used to people not liking the same music as i do, so as long as you like it keep listening if you don't then there's always the new michael jackson album due this year.
Score = -3
I wish there was a ? symbol you could press instead of green and red arrows to indicate you have no clue what the person really is trying to say or think what they are saying is completely random.
Score = 33
oh, to summarize my comment: i like the new album. it is good.
Score = 3
much like the Obama presidency... this album has been too hyped before it even officially arrives.
Score = 7
Yes, it obviously is the best.
Best thing since Joanna Newsom's Ys.
Thank you Pitchfork, for validating me, as well.
Score = -3
Best thing I've heard since Y's.
Score = -2
FINAL THOUGHTS:
It really paid off getting this album RIGHT WHEN IT LEAKED, because I had time to listen to it before all of you assholes put your $.02 in.
Agreed? Anyone? I think that's my best argument for stealing music, so far. It's the ONLY WAY TO LISTEN TO IT WITHOUT TEH INTERNETS fucking up my SHIT and getting inside my pea brain!
Score = 6
You can not watch internetz sometimez?
Score = 9
Actually agree with you here-- as much as I love talking about music, I'd rather know nothing going in when it's a huge record like this.
That said, now that we've all heard it-- does anyone here have anything to say other than:
1. "This is the greatest album ever"
2. "How can you call this the best album of 2009 already???"
3. "Ugh, why the hype-- nothing will ever top the European pre-release import of Campfire Songs"
Score = 15
I wonder if panda bear's ejaculate tastes like strawberry jam.
Score = 23
yes, it does
Score = 10
I heard it tastes like water. Curses!
Score = -6
"Playing like a plea to a child to take her medicine as the sun comes up on a beachfront party." -- What does that even mean?
Score = 8
Ha-ha. Cuz that happens.
Score = 2
Amen, Brother[sport]
Score = 8
I'm not an all things Animal Collective type guy and I knew everyone (P4K) would be all over their nuts, but I will say it's sounding pretty good to me so far.
Score = 1
This is a good album. This is a clever album, too. This is the album of the year thus far (five days in). But there's no way in hell that this is album of the year (there's also no way in hell this band would be where they are right now if it weren't for Pitchfork)
Score = -4
Just wait til Before I Self Destruct comes out.
You'll see!
You'll ALL see!
Score = 9
Judging by your eyes, I'd say your already seeing.
Score = 21
I like to hold out until December before declaring the best album of the year...
Score = 2
I'm personally hooked to shit on this album right now. The fact still remains that it's most likely going to end up on most blogs' (P4K) Top 10 at the end of the year, regardless of a backlash or not.
On a side note, I made an educated guess as to how high P4K was gonna rate it. I was off by -0.4. :D
Score = 2
Wow, judging by all the posts a lot of Animal Collective "FANS" downloaded this illegally.
Score = -10
You're right. A lot of us have also bought tickets to see them in NYC twice later this month, and will be picking up the vinyl at Other Music tomorrow.
If you are going to whine, at least make it about something useful or interesting.
Besides, Panda doesn't need that much-- I mean, how much can four walls and adobe slats cost?
Score = 28
Can we please just finally move on from this Animal Collective crap? I mean honestly, it's just noise. If you want some strong 2009 albums look to Andrew Bird & A.C. Newman who are giving us good music as they always do. And Beirut, Morrisey, and the Decemberists are all releasing albums in the very new future. Its just more of the damn Pitchfork crowd where Trendy > Quality Songwriting and Anything > Mainstream
Score = -59
Amazing insights. Got a blog I can check out? I'd really love to hear you thoughts on John Cage.
Score = 13
these hipsters don't know who john cage is.
Score = -3
"There is no noise, only sound"
-John Cage
Some people like bubble gum melodies, and some people like minimalism and atonalism.
People either love Steven Reich, John Cage, Witold Lutoslowski, Anton Webern…and Animal Collective, or they hate them.
I fucking love it. MPP is the best album I have heard in a while. “My Girls” is a mind blowing piece, the AB composition is so refreshing in a world of ABA.
Score = 0
so you just scrolled through 100 comments about a band/album you have no use for? that's awesome
Score = 4
I have been on the fence about this band for a dog's age, but I must say that the new album is pretty brilliant. Anyone whose making a knee-jerk reaction out of hand from past experience hasn't listened to the album yet clearly
Score = 2
My high school graduation was at Merriweather Post Pavilion.
Score = 10
So was mine!
Score = 0
Great album but I won't call it the best until A) Grizzly Bear comes out and/or B) December (whichever comes first).
Why haven't any reviews mentioned that this album has virtually no guitars or real drums (at least not in any recognizable, obvious way)!? I think that is a huge part of this story. Probably their biggest and best yet, and yet widely different.
Score = 1
i got the new blackout beach via pre-order today. it makes me sad to think/know it will be completely swept under the rug just because it happens to come out on the same day as mpp.
Score = 3
Whine about something useful or interesting? Hmmmm? I guess A roach doesn't think that a comment on how illegal downloading is neither useful nor interesting. Don't kid yourself asshole, just because you have tickets for a show and plan on buying the vinyl doesn't mean you have the right to take away from the band the decision on when this album is released (that includes digital releases?)
Do you even like music, or do you just like saying you heard something first? Or is it neither, and you just have a bad case of entitlement? But you and "Panda" seem to be on a first name basis, so what do I know.
Score = -21
Yikes...
I would argue that buying the LP and going to a show goes above and beyond simply paying for a digital download. Are you serious?! You're calling someone an asshole?! For supporting a band?! ugh.....
I don't know what antiquated cave your high horse lumbered out of, but it's time to put it out of its misery.
Score = 7
are you fucking kidding? stop. immediately. it's january 5.
Score = -4
Are you fucking kidding hizzo? Do you really think everyone who is writing about how sweet this album is just barely got it today, or do you maybe think they've had it a bit longer?
Score = -2
I won't ever remember a single lyric no matter how many times I listen to this but damned if a pair of headphones, alcohol and/or splif, and this album put's me into a sonic coma. It's like the audio version of "Where the Wild Things Are" and a fluffer rolled into one.
Score = 8
Also, in answer to the question I have a bad case of entitlement.
Score = 0
I don't get what comes of comparing.. this album to their last or this one to whatever else.. don't you just like it or not? It isn't MORE fun that way, but there's a lot LESS work (fun).
Score = -2
this just reminded me about my New Year's resolution, which is to not talk about music entirely in hyperbole anymore. i suggest you start doing the same, everyone on the internet.
Score = 4
the most stressful album of 09. I only had like 10 days to tell everyone about the majesty of this album before pitchfork did.
Score = 9
Grizzly Bear = Most Overrated Band ever
AC's MPP = Unbelievably good. Listened to it 10 times straight through without reading one review or hipster "well someone has to hate it and it might as well be me" comment. This album could very well end up at the top of all lists at the end of the year. It's that good. I believe it has that much staying power. It's very-early-in-the-year release will not cast it into the pit of indie-rock obscurity. The timing of its release does not diminish the quality of the album and people's right to voice their opinion that it just may be album of the year.
MPP will be remembered and revered among old fans and a slew of new fans - likely to jump aboard the AC train because of this album - as the best album of the year. It may even be one of the greatest albums of the last 10 years. I think most of us know greatness when we hear it.
Score = -12
Well you're obviously a fanatic AC fan. I'm not even gonna read your explanation why its superior, I know it's a great album thanks. But that diss is pretty uncalled for! Overrated is such a lame complaint about something, as if you could do make their music yourself. They make incredible songs. They might not obviously be your favorite kind, because theyre very different than AC, but cut the shit talking.
Score = 3
you look and sound really fucking dumb.
Score = 3
"you look and sound really fucking dumb."
Touche, DUMBO. Touche.
I love how it's so fashionable to knock people who profess their love for a certain band. "Ooooh, wait until the new Grizzly Bear comes out. Or the new Arcade Fire. They're gonna kick AC's asses." Give me a fucking break. Grizzly Bear are... OK. Just not great. Overrated? In my opinion, yes. But I'm not going to say you're 'really fucking dumb' for liking them as much as you do. :::shakes head:::
Every year there's a band that's cool to hate. This year it's AC's turn.
Score = -1
you still look pretty dumb in your picture. Jus' sayin'
Score = 1
All your comments are too long to read.
Just put out the only needed comment like:
"I like Animal Collective"
"Animal Collective is just horrible..."
Easy right?
Oh yeah
I like Animal Collective.
Score = 2
Animal Collective is just horrible...
Why don't you guys just go ahead and call it the greatest album ever? I know In Rainbows might make it a tough choice, but i'm sure pitchfork will tell you what to think on the subject.
Score = -9
I love this record!
But it is basically "My Girls" and her ten identical but somehow less attractive sisters.
Score = -6
Identical?
Nuh-uh. NUH UH
Score = 2
Whether you're a hipster in denial, a Grizzly Bear fanatic, or just a lover of good shit-hot music; everyone can agree on one thing:
This is the best album of the year so far.
But I'm looking forward to Beirut and Grizzly Bear.
Score = 5
Avey and Panda Bear just own melody and harmony.
wow.. finally an album that I can listen to start to end, without the need to skip a track, and always pumped about the next song
My favorite stretch is from summertime clothes to no more running :P
Favorite tracks are taste, guys eyes and in the flowers.
I think this album is great. But only time can validate that claim..
Score = 3
How can you guys call this album of the year when Third Eye Blind has a new release coming up?!
Score = 24
1) In The Flowers - Jam
2) My Girls - MONSTER JAM
3) Also Frightened - Jam
4) Summertime Clothes - MONSTER JAM
5) Daily Routine - Jam
6) Bluish - MONSTER JAM
7) Guys Eyes - Jam
8) Taste - MONSTER JAM
9) Lion In A Coma - MONSTER JAM
10) No More Runnin’ - Jam
11) Brothersport - MONSTER JAM
Jam To Crap Score: 17/22 - *77.3%*
*CERTIFIED CRAP FREE*
Score = -9
Two things:
1. Never been an AC fan. However, I really like this, but only time can tell whether or not it is great. In my opinion, it usually takes five years or so to determine the shelf life of an album.
2. Nobody is really going to give a shit about the best of 2009 lists at the end of this year because everybody will be too busy compiling and reading those Best Albums of the Decade lists. Hopefully, those will at least offer a little variety.
xoxo
Score = 5
I am actually going to go purchase a record player, just so I can listen to this record.
Score = 4
Atlas Sound's Logos will be better than this record.
Score = -11
You are smoking the crack rock.
Score = 4
brad isn't releasing it.
Score = 0
Do people really like MPP? I can't get down with this Vampire Weekend bullshit.
Just kidding, its pretty sweet. But lets hope something better comes out in 09 so its not a boring year. I have hopes for Dan Deacon, Atlas Sound, Wavves, and Grizzly Bear. But I really hope an incredible new artist come out of nowhere with the album of the year.
Score = 11
While it's tough to say this early in, if something can surpass this slice of bliss it's going to be a banner year for music. At least better than anything released in 2008? Hell Yeah.
Score = 1
Man I never know about Animal Collective. I never really get into their albums as a whole, but there's always one hilariously good song that makes me think they really are as amazing as all these ratings say.
Feels - Purple Bottle
Strawberry Jam - Fireworks
Now, MPP - My Girls
Score = 7
Nailed It!!
Score = 1
Agreed.
Question RE: "My Girls": Is the lyric "I don't mean to seem like I care about material things, like a social status"?
If so, does "social status" qualify as a "material thing?" Don't material things have to be made of material? Like, physically?
The song has been stuck in my head for days though (I tried to listen to the album but can't make it past this song, I keep hitting << to play it again)
Score = 0
man, I sure do love this album. I love it almost as much as I hate reading people talk about Animal Collective.
Score = 6
christ i hope not
Score = 0
LOL @ Paste's review http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/01/animal-collective-merriweather-post-pavilion-domin.html#comments
Score = 4
WOW-- truly one of the worst reviews I've read in a while. Why would they let this chump write the review on such an anticipated record?
4 obnoxious paragraphs and shout-outs to Pink, Justin Timberlake and Dan Deacon before there is a SINGLE WORD about the record itself.
Paste isn't great, but this is a new low.
Score = 2
Does anyone else think this album would sound even BETTER in the middle of the summer?
Score = 15
I went home to 85F weather in FL and listened to it all break while riding around on my bike and kayaking. Yes, it sounds even better as a summer record. It's still amazing in Seattle, but I'll always think of sunshine and beachballs when I hear it. So maybe (for me) it's better that it came out in Winter.
Score = 1
I believe you have a point Nils, It feels like more of a summer kind of album.
Score = 2
i remember first seeing the videos of them playing this material and just shitting my pants it was so good. however, ive been listening to some of these tracks and at first listen it hardly sounds like animal collective. not in the sense of "heyy they're selling out man it doesnt sound like their old stuff" but it lacks the rawness i hear in everything else theyve put out, and even played with in those first videos. it's still a great album and i dont expect to be catered to as a fan i guess im just a little dissapointed with the production but maybe its just me.
Score = 1
i too have been listenin to this album on repeat, and guess what, im already kinda tired of it. i never did get over strawberry jam though
Score = -3
It's boring. I thought maybe it'd sound more magical if I listened to it drunk, walking through the snow at night. Didn't.
The contented, dancey, vibe is something I don't begrudge them. But the songs aren't catchy and the production is so monotonous and bland... this is what Panda Bear called their best-recorded album? i doubt it'll grow on me because I'm already tired of it.
MPP is to AC as the green album is to Weezer, kinda.
Score = -11
Animal Collectives most consist and most perfect record to date. Simply amazing.
Score = -2
They officially have a new fan.
Score = 0
i hate this record
Score = 0
I DO NOT LIKE IT
Score = 1
Music is the most overrated organized sound of the year.
Score = 11
Yeah, seriously!
Score = 0
Antony's "Crying Light" is already a better album from 2009.
Score = 1
Sadly, it seems I am the only person to agree with you.
Score = 1
really? because i was really hoping weezer would come out with the best album of 2009. *intense sarcasm*
Score = 1
granted , this album is great,,,but come on, its way to soon to call it the best album of 2009, we still got grizzly bear, build to spill and sonic youth to blow our minds.
Score = 2
*built, not build
Score = -2
Question: Is Meriweather Post Pavilion The Best Album of 2009?
Answer: No. Definately not. No. No No... No. Nope. Nuh uh. No Way.
Ive never really heard anything from Animal Collective that I love. Plus, Grizzly Bear and Beirut albums will rip this one to shreds.
Score = -2
Such a great record! We will be lucky if anything else comes this close this year. I am so excited for Grizzly Bear, though. 2009 is off to such a great start!
Score = 1
I'd say it sounds most like "Here Comes the Indian," just in terms of how a lot of the samples sound. Best of '09 so far, but they could out-do themselves if they released an all-acoustic album later this year.
Score = 1
Im glad 2009 has kicked off with the right foot:)
Score = 0
I JUST WANT FOUR WALLS AND ADOBE SLABS FOR MY GIIRRRLLLLSS!!!!
Score = -5
Lil Wayne's NOT EVEN ON THIS ALBUM
Score = 29
2009 just started! You can't call that yet! I like this album so far I suppose.
Score = 0
Uh... you CAN say it's the best of album of 2009 by virtue of '09 just starting. There's not much material released so far to compare it to.
Score = -1
Oh, do Animal Collective have a new album out? I was unaware.
Score = 10
My Girls is epic
Score = -3
MMP kicks considerable amounts of ass, haven't had something this blissed-out since Person Pitch.
Bluish is the best track by far..
Has anyone heard the mash-up of My Girls with Frankie Knuckles's Your Love?
Get it.
I think it's on GvB..
Score = 2
I don't see why people hail it as their best album. I actually think Strawberry Jam is 10 times better and love every song on it. And I hope that when I see them that they play a few from Strawberry Jam and Feels too because I would be very disappointed with just MMP.
Score = 2
I really don't see the massive appeal of the album or how people are calling this one of the best of the decade? Can someone explain it to me without all the snarky barbs? All I hear is just layer upon layer of sounds piled on top of each other, and it only loosely goes together into a jumbled mess. Seems like decent background music, perhaps I don't get the whole electronic thing and am pining for a truly great album using actual instruments. Although the My Girls track is pretty good, the "wooo" that gets shouted out a few times sounds corny...
Score = 6
Yeah I don't really get it either. This kind of sound seems to be the crowded corner into which indie-llectuals have painted themselves.
Score = 0
Everyone just needs to calm down. We'll know the truth soon enough. It's only 352 days until Pitchfork's Best of 2009.
Score = 2
Here's a piece with pitchfork writer who gave a 9.6 being interviewed/grilled about his review.. http://flavorwire.com/7091/critical-review-an-interview-with-pitchfork-managing-editor-mark-richardson-on-animal-collective-review
Score = 2
Is his screenname really "Mark-Pitchfork-666"?
Score = 4
this album is fucking beautiful, more raw emotion than any album ive heard in a long time....their music has never worked better, the vocals are perfect, and its just overall exciting.
Score = 0
Hello Pejorative Jinx,
One way to listen to the album (or any album) is to separate the basic music components (e.g. melody, harmony, rhythm, lyrics) from the sonic texture (e.g. arrangements, instrumentation, engineering, and mixing). I think people can miss enjoying AC because the sonic texture can be so dense. Or a 'jumbled mess' as you say. If you're struggling with the mess, try to focus on the basic elements. I think that the first part of AC's genius is that underneath the mess are great melodies, rhythms, and lyrics. If you listen for the components, that may open it up for you. It may help to even imagine a different instrumentation for the parts your hearing (e.g. what if those fuzzy drum loops were actually played on a standard sounding drum kit).
But the second part of their genius is obfuscating the basics underneath a fairly dense sonic texture. But to me, that's just window dressing. And it’s the bit that will make this record dated in 10 years. Like the obsession with overly loud guitars in the grunge era or gated drums in the 80s. I don’t mean that negatively, but it’s the sonic texture that will really date this music.
(This has been a 'snark free' message. Begin your merciless attacks...
...
… NOW!)
Score = 5
Grizzlt bear sucks balls.
Score = -3
Let me guess: you are 15, comment frequently on "Collected Animals" and already own 5 copies of MPP on vinyl (a couple keeping the plastic on for collection).
Get a clue. Grizzly Bear are the bee's knees.
Score = 1
Actually, I'm 27, a lawyer, and downloaded the supremely excellent Merriweather Post Pavillion illegally. I can assure you I am more than qualified to offer a sustained and detailed critique of Grizzly Bear and am able to proffer a comparative analysis of the musical demerits of Grizzly Bear as compared to the merits of Animal Collective. Nevertheless I prefer clarity and succintness where possible, and, in my respectful opinion, it is still the case that Grizzly Bear sucks Animal Collective's balls.
Score = 7
If you a lawyer why can't you buy their album? You fail on many levels.
Score = -2
If I met a 15 year old kid who listened to Animal Collective, I'd want to be his friend.
Score = 5
I'm 15 and I love AC.
Score = -1
Well... now that we got the best album of 2009... let's move on to 2010
Score = 5
Am I the only one who's embarrassed by what this generation considers "great"? Animal Collective are far from awful but they're also far from great. Can you really compare this album to albums like Rubber Soul, Doolittle or Bee Thousand?
Score = -1
I completely agree. I think it's time indie rock stops experimenting and starts getting back to the basics. If I played this album for most of my family or friends, they would think I was weird.
Score = 0
And lord knows that indie rock should take its cues from what you (and particularly your family and friends) think.
Score = 4
Rubber Soul > Doolittle > MPP > Bee Thousand
successfully compared. by your logic how can you compare rubber soul with bee thousand. really?
Score = -5
Haha, I like how "great" is your catchall term for the best albums, where if it's determined classic it gets the generic adjective "great," versus your apparent inverse, the equally generic "awful." It's like your scale of quality is only capable of three possibilities: "awful," "great," and "neither."
I downloaded MPP the other day but I haven't listened to it yet because I keep forgetting to load it onto my ipod. I'm looking forward to hearing it after all the praise. Actually I'm looking even more forward to Noble Beast, go figure.
Score = 0
Sorry for speaking in layman's terms, I wasn't aware that Stereogum was intended for intellectual debates. I wasn't insinuating that there was only three levels of quality, you made that leap on your own while reading my post. But, wouldn't you agree that a 9.6 rating could be considered "great"?
In response to Cactus, I agree that Bee Thousand doesn't compare to Rubber Soul, I just threw it out there because I'm a big GbV fan. But, I still believe the a collection of Robert Pollard's worst songs would still sound better than MPP, but maybe I should give it a 4th listen.
Gosh....
Score = -1
What the fuck?
So you want a band to make an album just like a "great" album that was made 10, 20, 30 years ago? So that it sounds really nice the first time we hear it, and so our family and friends will enjoy it during their after-dinner coffee?
Yeah, because when those albums came out, they were really "easy".
Animal Collective pushed song structure in past albums, and they have just refined their sound to a perfection of music of RIGHT NOW (not 20 years ago) with incredible beats, melodies, and sonic ideas. Why not just keep on listening to those old albums you love so much then, why do we need another one?
Innovation was for the 20th century, guys! Lets get back to basics, and rehash everything that has been done.
Score = 2
I agree.
To ME, their music sounds very retro, like a badly-mixed, slightly experimental outtake from a 1970s Beach Boys album with a few overdubbed sound effects, and the lyrics tend to be twee at best and disingenuous at worst.
Again, to ME, "unique" music sounds like Merzbow, Tony Conrad, John Cage, etc, and "unique" Pop music sounds like MBV's 'Loveless', 'Tomorrow Never Knows', Joanna Newsom's 'Ys' ... Even 'Single Ladies' by Beyonce uses sound in more interesting, less retro ways.
It REALLY puzzles me why 99% of people commenting here think AC are something extra-ordinary and exciting... Is it because all you have to compare it to is Indie Guitar music in general?
Score = 2
1. Remember when they debated when it is "too early" to pick out best albums if the year with Grandaddy's The Sophtware Slump?
2. It is an impressive album, but 9.6 is likely to make some up and coming bands feel insecure. Sheesh!
3. arcade Fire: Funeral. 9.7. Listened to it literally a few times out of curiosity (say 5 times in total?), and enjoyment. Never listened to it again for about a year. Be careful with your ratings!
Score = 2
to j_son.. back to basics? yeah, I want music to regress, then it will be better! C'mon, that's just lame.
Score = 2
When I first put on the album in my car, I'd honestly thought I bought one of those "joke" mp3s that someone puts out with the title of whatever band they're trying to mock (like those fake Sufjan state tracks.) In the flowers honestly sounded like a complete sloppy joke to me. I went on to listen to "My Girls" since that's one of the tracks everyone's raving about. At first, I heard NOTHING special about it. The more I've listened to it though, it's grown on me. It's a good track. So far, the rest of the album has done little for me, and Brother Sport and Lion in a Coma just sound very annoying and unlistenable to a degree. I'm completely willing to give it more and more time, because a lot of my favorite albums ever took me a LONGGG time to get in to (like Astral Weeks or I See a Darkness). So it's possible this could grow on me after many listens and make more sense in time. But as for right now, as an honest opinion, a lot of it sounds like unlistenable crap. To a large extent though, I want to and expect to be proven somewhat wrong. Has this album been a grower for anyone as opposed to an immediately likable listen?
For what it's worth, I was never that into Animal Collective. I'm the type that loves the easy tracks like Fireworks, Reverend Green, We Tigers, Peacebone, etc. but 90% of people who hear anything aside from My Girls, Brother Sport (and maybe Blueish) will probably despise it.
Score = -2
It sounds like a cheap commercial retread of their more exciting material to me.
Score = -3
honestly i listen to a ton of music and make a ton of music and so I am very open minded to how things sound and I can't understand how a dedicated music listener isn't obsessed with this album. Im not trying to be hipster-ish or some obsessed AC fan but its just very good, the lyrics are great, the melodies are brilliant, the instrumentation is unique, the production allows you to keep coming back and finding something different in the mix, its just a great album, im not saying a classic, but at the moment, if you like all those things i mention at all, you must love this or you havent given it enough of a chance...
Score = 8
has anyone else read the absolutely shit review in rolling stone. Bro Sport is not about a blowjob, fucking retards.
Score = 4
I figured Rolling Stone would give it a sub par rating. But who cares, I haven't been influenced by a review by them in...well...ever... they come across as very dated and irrelevant. Dylan could make a crappy album and it would still gets like five stars. Shit, they put Jonah Brothers on the cover, so who gives a fuck about them....
Score = 3
WAY too early to make such a ludicrous remark. This album could be the best of the year...but it probably won't be. we have 12 more months ahead of us, and I really don't think this album is amazing. I think it's aight. I never have been a big fan of animal collective, but this is better. I loved WHY?'s Alopecia album last year, I'd consider that the best album of 2008, and it came out in the beginning of the year, so you never know...I just can't see this being the best album of '09. Joanna Newsom maybe? (according to her average release dates, she's due for a new album.)
Score = -1
Actually, I don't think its very good at all. The album isn't rough enough. I liked the screams and unpleasant noises in the last one...they set it aside from other bands. I have never liked Animal Collective, but I know this is NOT the album of the year. I know many people that were/are fans of Animal Collective will not like this album. It sounds like crap.
Score = -1
this might be the most over rated album of the decade. i'm starting to feel that animal collective is to music to which magic johnson is to H.I.V.
Score = -5
what???, you mean keepin it alive? you are confusion and make no sense.
Score = 2
just thought i'd point out... not one person who didn't like this album has given a decent answer as to why they don't like it. they've simply said it's "shit" or it's "overated" etc...
if your going to diss this record please inform me about why it isn't good.
just sayin'
Score = 1
so funny these comments, but that shows how important music really is. Especially when its that damn good. Last year it wasnt. There was no No.1. So this year there will be one, that fits this place with honour. Maybe its Collective, maybe Bears, Pandas or Dinosaurs, but Animals indeed.
Score = 2
Are Grizzly Bear and AC even remotely similar? Whats up with all the comparisons?
And I love how everyone is so quick to use Pitchfork as an insult, as if reading it automatically makes you a sheep, and being 'over it' gives you more indie-cred (whatever that FUCK that is these days). OOOOOH you're soooo fucking indie cuz you hate the big oppressive indie website that 'tells everyone what to think' and represents the establishment that you hate so much. Meanwhile you're so far up pitchfork's ass you're jizzing in your pants as soon as the review comes out.
It's a fucking WEBSITE. just. like. THIS. ONE. just like every other fucking channel you find you're music through. one is not cooler, hipper, or more indie than the other.
We are people talking about music on the internet. enjoy the music, try to have some fucking interesting insight while discussing it. and please drop the annoying fucking 'i'm so cool cuz i'm over everything and i like everything that no one has heard of' BULL SHIT POSTURING. you're fucking lame, and you impress no one.
in regards to the AC album... it's good! i'll be listening to it for a long time. and considering i've found AC equal parts interesting and grating in the past, i'm glad an album of theirs cuts out some of the bull, and is just overall really strong. yay for synths and beats.
oh and PS... the Royksopp album is gonna be the best of the year. :P
Score = 13
There are definitely some very high points on this album and it is a very good album. I don't think this is their best, though. I am amazed at all of the Jam put downs. Jam to me has been their best. Peacebone, Fireworks and Reverend Green may be your idea of the strong Jam songs (trio), but Cuckoo Cuckoo, Winter Wonderland and Chores also do it for me. Avey's screaming, the chugging, the lyrics, the quirkiness. I found myself going back and listening Jam in order to digest MPP. Some of MPP reminds me of spirits they've vanished (Bat you'll fly, Someday I'll Grow, Chocolate Girl). I disagree with j_son. You can play this for friends and family and not get strange looks. It's been compared to Brian Wilson, there are some beautiful songs. There's nothing wrong with people liking music, lookiehere, even your parents. Don't put your foot in your mouth.
Score = 0
Well if the album's title is any indication of its content (and there's no saying it is) then what we should prepare ourselves for is a mildly buzzy outdoor amphitheater experience nestled in the suburban woods of a county long outside Baltimore city's edgy edge. Right right. By titular reference alone, this album should neatly follow O.A.R. and precede Sugarland on the marquee. Yes, that's what Merriweather Post Pavilion is my friends.... that's the dirty undirty truth of it.
Score = 2
WORST/BEST/ EPIC-EST COMMENT THREAD OF '09
Score = 2
Throwin out an awesome video to lighten the mood:
Maybe an animal collective influence??
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSZHT2XvoLM
Score = -1
I think Stephen Colbert had the perfect analogy that would apply to Animal Collective. If I wanted to hear the new animal collective, I would just put my ear up to a tin can next to a Pacman machine. Its just noise. What happened to quality song songwriting?
Score = -7
Here's a "Brothersport" audio edit (2 minutes long, instead of 6) and video by some dude. It's cool.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b_dk4N2RG4
Score = -6
So much energy and feeling onto one disc. Something you can have sex to.
Score = -4
Is that a pickup line? Do you really wanna pick up one of these bozos who yammer on for days about the same album? Really?
Score = 1
I wonder how many IP addresses are shared between Stereogum and the AC boards?
Score = 3
heres a really nice video of "BLUISH" my fave song from the best album 2009? thats such a catchy thing to say it seems (on january 6 its actually just stupid)
http://de.youtube.com/watch?v=0SWKnXIZFyg
Score = 0
why the fuck is nobody mentioning department of eagles? twi the humble feather? icy demons?
Score = -2
Department of Eagles JUST released an album. Doubtful they will put out another one this year. However, as you might have noticed this entire thread is basically a Grizzly Bear anticipation thread. Next really exciting album coming out, could just beat out MPP
Score = 1
I just found out that they gonna play "my girls" at Obamas inauguration!!!
Score = 1
and I miss the guitars
Score = 1
Does anybody else feel that this could have been the perfect freak-dance record if it had been produced by whoever was behind Lady GaGa's singles? Or even Timbaland?
Score = -1
Where can i download this??!! i have heard most of the album but i need to have the whole album.
Score = -4
the best review of MPP
http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/01/07/album-review-animal-collective-merriweather-post-pavilion/
Score = 0
"I figured Rolling Stone would give it a sub par rating. But who cares, I haven't been influenced by a review by them in...well...ever... they come across as very dated and irrelevant."
Funny, that's exactly how I feel about Pitchfork.
Score = -4
Post apocalyptic
Score = -2
i'm into anything that hooks me in- and MPP effortlessly does it. there's nothing overbearing about this album- it's simply pop delicacies in 11 breaths. there's melody, excellent use of space, tingling textures, and a bursting hearth that makes me want to inch closer to it at every listen. i admit im a huge AC fan, but i don't even care whether it's AC or grizzly bear's grandma made this album, the point is that it's here for us. i have to give AC credit for changing the way we think about pop music, and the way it can be wrought. these kids are certainly defining 21st century music.
word.
Score = -3
k in AC related news, watch this.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5XoJJrhZuc&feature=related
Score = 2
yelping
Score = 0
That song hypnotized me. Not sure if I'm feeling it on the first listen though. I think though it might grow on me.
Check out:
http://diggingfordays.blogspot.com
Score = 0
I think this is my favorite review of MPP:
http://silenceinarchitecture.wordpress.com/2009/01/09/animal-collective-imagined/
Score = 1
I cannot wait for the much anticipated GRIZZLY BEAR vs. ANIMAL COLLECTIVE: RAP DUELZ coming out later this year. You guys will really lose it. I'm guessing 10,000 comments.
Score = 5
no doubt son!
Score = 1
Elvis Perkins will be a best of album. This is above average.
Score = -1
MPP is alright, bud I'm digging on this Here We Go Magic stuff way more!
Score = 2
how bout one of you hipsters take a swig of my cock fur?
Score = 0
Maaaaybe. But it'll never be the best album of 2008!!!
Score = 1
STOP WRITING ABOUT MUSIC
Score = 0
Blogs and the comments on blogs are the reason why there will never be an Ok Computer of this decade. No matter how much you like something, someone will be out there trying the hardest they can to make sure you like the new Grizzly Bear better, and convincing you that the easiest way to do that is by hating Animal Collective.
... and all the talk about AC not possibly being a contender for the best album of 09, JUST because we're only a few days in, is like saying that it's a law of nature that good albums can't be made before May of each year. We never know what might happen.
Score = 0
CRLS/HRO owns: http://www.hipsterrunoff.com/2009/01/animal-collective-is-a-band-created-byforon-the-internet.html
Score = -2
I've never liked anything that Animal Collective has done prior, but I love MPP! Also looking forward to new Doves, Jason Lytle (Grandaddy) solo, Neko Case & M. Ward.
Score = -2
Pitchfork's Ryan Schreiber on ABC News
January 14, 2009 10:43 p.m. by Tony Sclafani
Here's something you don't expect to see when you turn on ABC Evening News: Pitchfork founder Ryan Schreiber talking about "Five Albums to Watch Out for in 2009." Schreiber's appearance is the opening bid in the broadcast's new attempt to cover pop music with a segment called "New Music Monday."
What this means in terms of Pitchfork's place in the blogosphere is being debated in the comments section at Gorilla vs. Bear. Did the appearance help bring something new and unconventional to the masses weaned on a steady diet of major label fare? Or is Pitchfork itself now becoming too mainstream since they're being given the red carpet by anchor Charlie Gibson?
Meanwhile, if you don't wanna wade through the video, we'll just tell you that Schreiber's picks are Animal Collective's Merriweather Post Pavilion, Bon Iver's Blood Bank EP, the Pains of Being Pure at Heart's self-titled CD, Antony & the Johnson's The Crying Light and the new Taylor Swift CD. Kidding! Just seeing if you all were awake. The final pick is the San Diego one-man act Wavves' self-titled CD, which Schreiber notes has three "v's" in its title (Wavvves) and is "extremely lo-fi."
You gotta figure the old folks at home must have scratched their heads over that one: "Darling, why would I want to listen to something lo-fi? Those Celine Dion CDs are in pristine digital sound! We want only quality music in this McMansion!"
The Web Exclusive is as follows:
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=6630685
Score = 0
This album rocks my figurative socks. In my opinion it is Animal Collective's best album yet, just surpassing Strawberry Jam (music-wise) and Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished.
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bla bla bla
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i liked strawberry jam better.
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Grizzly Bear will still put out the superior album. I HATE MPP
just kidd'n y'alls, no need to get hyper up on that red arrow! They both gonna be mad chillz!
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Animal Collective and Panda Bear and Grizzly Bear and Flight of the Conchords = all horribly bad
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It's GOOD - that's all you really need to know. Panda Bear is a major talent.
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Anyone listen to the full AC show on NPR's All Songs Considered podcast? It's from 9/28/07 @ DC's 9:30 club:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=14564305
I was excited by the large batch of then new songs on it when the podcast was released nearly a year and a half ago, and I feared that the band would casually dismiss those songs as live experiments that weren't intended for any studio project. Thankfully, those songs turned out to make up the bulk of MPP, and the final recordings sound masterful.
Anyway, the concert makes for any interesting listen, as you can hear how the band is still fleshing out the songs (what a fantastic approach that is: instead of touring to support your most recently released album, you instead tour to develop the songs for your next record!) Many of the lyrics are still in early stages as well, particularly "Summertime Clothes." The earlier live rendition of that song's chorus has a simpler vocal/ lyrical approach then the wordier final album version (Avey simply shout-growling "I want to walk around with you" over and over vs. both Avey and Panda singing the several new lines of chorus lyrics on MPP.... they also sing "around" in a deeper tone first and then higher on the final phrase rather than singing it on the higher note every time as in the live version.)
Ultimately, the final version is still lovely.... just a random preference on my part.
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MENOMENA!!!
New AC is good. It's no album of the year though. :p
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If this is the best of 2009, then this is gonna be a rough year for music.
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I think is the album of the decade. (Does anyone know how to call the decade? the 00ties?..)
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yes. it is the best record since the beatles.
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Ha! You naive bitch.
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Could MPP challenge Kid A for P4K's Album of the decade (at the end of this year)?!?!?! Could anything?!?
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They've already been challenged because neither one of them are the decade's best. Especially Merriweather Post Pavilion, which isn't even close.
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Fair enough, though I disagree that neither one of them are even close (Especially Kid A)...But my question is regarding those zany Pitchforkers who revere Radiohead and Kid A in particular!! Out of curiosity, what would you pick (say...top 3)?
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Fair enough, though I disagree that neither one of them should even be considered (Especially Kid A)...But my question is regarding those zany Pitchforkers who revere Radiohead and Kid A in particular as well as MPP!! Out of curiosity, what would you pick (say...top 3)?
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Fair enough, though I disagree that neither one of them should even be considered (Especially Kid A)...But my question is regarding those zany Pitchforkers who revere Radiohead and Kid A in particular as well as MPP!! Out of curiosity, what would you pick (and yeah I realise this may not be the time or the place...but just for fun)?
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I have listened to MPP and am a big fan of AC, but calling it 'best album of 2009' so early is just stupid. It's April, which I think is still to early to call best album. Another album might come out later that is better.
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Well it's September now and this disc still owns my soul--it becomes more human and cohesive with each listen as my synapses morph to accept its revolution/realations---open up your throat!!
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