Their new record (kind-of-long-EP-album-thingo) "No One's First And You're Next" is a must buy. Simple as that. It's only a very reasonable $12 for 34 minutes of music - and, although the music is a collection of B-sides and just-didn't-make-the-final-cuts from their last two albums, it really could, if they added maybe one more song, be Modest Mouse's sixth LP. It's got everything - singles ("King Rat", "Satellite Skin", "Autumn Beds") and tracks destined to be fan favourites ("The Whale Song", "Perpetual Motion Machine").
The EP opens with "Satellite Skin", and from the moment that Brock's unforgettable vocals enter, you that the song is going to be awesome. One of the best, most distinctive aspects of Modest Mouse's music is Brock's powerful, lisp-y vocals. Especially when they're being yelled. "Satellite Skin" is a chilled out rock song, and you can't help but wonder how it didn't manage to get on whichever album it was recorded for.
The second track, "Guilty Cocker Spaniels", is memorable for those who love Isaac's vocals. Like me. Otherwise, it's nothing special. "Autumn Beds" is good for those who aren't usually MM fans and just want something chilled out to listen to, as Isaac's vocals aren't as recognisable and prominent as usual; it's a very laid back song.
"The Whale Song" is the fourth track on the record, and it is fucking awesome. There's no way to describe it in words, but it's quickly become one of my favourite songs this year; it's been on repeat for the last week. It's a 6 or so minute epic, with amazing vocals from Brock, and Marr's guitar work is heavenly. If you're a post rock fan you'll fall head over heels. But if you plan to listen to it, make sure you're somewhere secluded so you can turn it up till your ears bleed. And don't go easy on the bass either. Try not to be doing something else, just immerse yourself in the subtly textured, weaving song.
The next song is "Perpetual Motion Song". It is a good contrast to "The Whale Song", and perfect for MM songs. Brock's vocals are amazing, as usual, and prominently him. It is fun filled, with horns, tinny acoustic guitars, and tens of overdubbed vocals. It's good fun. Then comes "History Sticks To Your Feet" - for me, not a memorable song, although that's not saying it's bad, at all - it's still awesome.
"King Rat" is track 7. It was the first song I heard from the EP, and I loved it right away. Brock's vocals,, well, I've been harping on about them all review; let's just say that they're at their best on this song. It's impossible to not not your head and tap your feet to this song. Johnny Marr's guitar work is beautiful; and from Brock's opening scream of "Well!", the crash of instruments and the strings playing their riff; well, it's amazing. The song has an eerie, foreboding sense around it. The use of horns and strings are perfect; and that beautiful breakdown, "Deep water.. deep water..", it's fucking amazing. Just listen. Loudly. And don't pass over the video, it's the best one I've seen in years.
The EP then closes with "I've Got It All (Most)", and, I must say I didn't really like this song all that much; it is a good way to close, but.
Anyway, I'm off. As it is just an EP, by EP standards this one is easily a 10/10
Matt
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