So, someone hooked this up for obneratic consumption recently, and I promptly d/l/d, half-heartedly listened to, and semi-forgot. Yail and I had a brief discussion in which I said I wasn't too keen on it, and he predicted that this album, while great, would suffer the inevitable hipster backlash...

It got a pretty good review in this month's SPIN (the one with Grohl on the cover) so I busted it out, and relistened seceral times, loudly, in the background, etc...and I think I have discerned the problem with this, and The Electric Version.

The first one is so loud, fast and in your face, but with the awesome harmonies and Neko's pipes to keep it all together. The next two albums just aren't that urgent or in your face. They are nice pop albums, but kinda fall into The Shins zone.

For what it's worth, post your opinions on it. Also, marvel in the fact that this is a music thread. Then don't respond. Then post about how no one talks about music.

The Shins Zone. I like that, and I definitely think it applies.

Neko needs to be louder.

If this was a solo cd of hers with them as a backing band, the last album (can't speak for the new one yet) would own the planet.

Neko should definitely get more vocal time. I've still haven't heard the new one, but it's the one record i've been waiting for all summer. I dont agree with this sentiment but plenty of people though the 'Slow Wonder' was pretty much New Pornographers throwaways.

i think "twin cinema" is sig. better than "electric version," as far as hooks go. each song sounds more tailored, like they took time with each cut. i'm glad that the new pornographers aren't neko case version 2.0 -- it's pop songs that need better treatment than what they've done before.

I still haven't heard the new one but after my disappointment with Electric Version and The Slow Wonder I won't be buying it until I sample it first.

I think you guys are crazy to think that Neko needs more or louder vocal time. The great thing about the New Pornos is that Neko will just all the sudden appear out of no where and smash your nut-sack with that voice. (ala "The Laws Have Changed" or "Bleeding Heart Show")

Best things about N.P.:
1. Divergent songwriting
2. 2,3,4,& 18 part vocal harmonies
3. Sparing use of the Neko Case Vocal Machine
4. Keyboards, keyboards, keyboards!!! (tastefully done keyboards)

And I am quite enjoying the new record.

And remember kids, the New Pornographers are tecnically a SUPERgroup(remember those?). If you want more Neko, go buy a Neko album. Or MANASSAS.

Am I one of the few that realizes just how great Electric Version is?

No, its my favorite of the 3...

decent pop songs, but not overly interesting IMO.

Electric Version is an incredible album, and Neko doesn't need more vocal time. Carl Newman is a genius and he has a fantastic voice, and Dan Bejar's no slouch either.

I'm so sick of the people looking for the next "Letter From an Occupant". Guys, it's not coming. It's a once-in-a-lifetime perfect pop song and you'll never get another one out of that band so stop looking.

Mine too.

I agree. The pinnacle for this band has been reached, summit crossed, and downward descent begun.

Maybe so, but Twin Cinema is good enough for it not to be a disappointment in the least....at least so far.

This thread just turned into a lovefest. ohhhhhhh lord kum-in-my-eye

Not a dissapointment from Electric Verssion, more a rehashing of the same material. I know we're not gonna get another Letter from An Occupant, but how about another 'Slow Descent" or "Body Says No" or 'Execution Day'..I think there is less of an "urgency" in both of the follow ups that I find disheartening.

It depends on what you like about the band. Mass Romantic was a messy, schizophrenic album, whereas Electric Version was clearer in direction and sound. I prefer the latter, but I know many others who prefer the former. I guess I just see Twin Cinema as an extension of Electric Version.

This band still has yet to release a bad album though.

I agree with this, there is just something missing from Twin Cinema that shone in points on Electric Version, too. I'm not giving up on it, I 'm just saying that after digesting it a bit more, I still can't give it more than about 3 stars.

i like it about as much as "electric version" -- it plays like its sequel. looks like it'll be tough for them to recapture the freshness & energy of their debut.

I'm with Dalen.

I really enjoy their music but I doubt they'll make my year's end Top 20 list. We'll see...

Add me to the list of those who thought that Electric Version was better than their debut.