You wanted a hit? Well that’s not what LCD Soundsystem do. Ever since James Murphy released his first LP under the name, he was a master in crafting mostly short, fun electronic dance tracks. The release of 2007’s Sound of Silver seemed to change all that. The release saw Murphy plunge in to a different territory, one which displayed an astounding amount of emotion resonance, and ultimately lead to a great deal of critical acclaim. It was electronic music with a surprising amount of depth, and a move of confidence which Murphy chose over the thought of commercial success.
Despite claims Sound of Silver would be their last, no one is complaining about the release of This Is Happening. Following the trend of its predecessor, This Is Happening is one long album. The only song under five minutes is lead single ‘Drunk Girls,’ most definitely the misnomer of the album, and an attempt to capture some of the fun seen on LCD Soundsystem’s eponymous debut. Usually, Murphy forgoes 3 minute blasts of energy for a series of tracks which have a much slower burn to them. ‘Dance Yrself Clean’ begins quietly contemplating itself with some uncharacteristically quiet vocal work (including spiteful vocals about friendship) and series of drum beats and hand claps, before Murphy lets loose with some huge synth. This Is Happening follows the pattern of its predecessor, providing a collection of songs which are long but never feel dragged out and have a huge amount of depth, an area in which other electronic acts fail to outweigh. ‘All I Want’ begins with nothing but a simple drum beat before wailing synth, guitars and Murphy’s heartfelt vocals accompany it.
It is these lengthy songs where LCD Soundsystem are truly in their element. Self referential song ‘You Wanted a Hit’ is 9 minutes long, yet is a subtle and well constructed song which bring a lot of different elements together. ‘I Can Change’ is another highlight on the album, a wonderful track filled with a clear 80’s synth influence and pleading vocals. ‘Pow Pow’ is a smattering of different drum beats all at a different tempo, and ‘Home’ closes the album the same way Murphy opened it; complex yet subtle, focused yet sparse.
It will be a shame to lose LCD Soundsystem, given Murphy’s insistence This Is Happening will in fact be the last album. But, it is best it comes to a truly dignified end. Instead of wallowing about the loss of what is arguably one of the best electronic acts of this decade, this album should be appreciated for the brilliant collection of tracks that it is. Murphy’s range of influences on This Is Happening is larger and more evident than on Sound of Silver. Whether it is better than that album is a tough call; Sound of Silver may just top it, but not by much. LCD Soundsystem are happening right now, appreciate and take it all in while you still can. They may not always make hits, but LCD Soundsystem are so much more than that.
Review Score: 9/10
http://www.theaureview.com/albums/lcd-soundsystem-this-is-happening-2010-lp
