Rave Tapes

Instrumental long-form rockers Mogwai return this week with their 8th studio album (and 2nd from Sub Pop) - Rave Tapes. Fans of the band hailing from Glasgow shouldn't be suprised by the familiar brooding themes present on the record as they have practically perfected their craft as torchbearers of the post-rock genre. Listeners with a low amount of patience should stay away, but for those of you who enjoy emotional instrumental rock, Rave Tapes is 50 minutes of pure bliss.

"Heard About You Last Night" is a soft, mysterious piece whose dreamlike qualities kick off Rave Tapes on a high note. Mogwai's signature electronic beats and distinct guitar work reveal themselves on "Simon Ferocious." My feelings are mixed on the track, but it sounds like something that might result from instructing a computer in the future to make a musical piece. "Remurdered," the first song released to the public since the Rave Tapes announcement, is the darkest on the album. I can easily hear some Moroder influence as the track would be the perfect theme to a 1970's science-fiction film.

Unfortunately most albums wouldn't be complete without a stumble or two and Rave Tapes is no exception. "Repelish" has spoken word lyrics talking about subliminal satanic messages in the classic rock song "Stairway to Heaven." It's just downright weird and after listening once I have absolutely no desire to ever sit through it again. "Deesh" has a sluggish beat that, on an album mostly consisting of instrumentals, was just not lively enough for me. Rave Tapes redeems itself with the last three tracks including some incredible hushed vocals on "Blues Hour," the beautiful "No Medicine For Regret," and the seemingly modified Irish wake track "The Lord is Out of Control." Rave Tapes deserves attention from all rock fans, particularly those who enjoy great motion picture and videogame soundtracks. Highly Recommended.