Yeasayer - Odd Blood

Finally, one of the most anticipated follow-ups of 2010 decides to leak! Although Yeasayer cautioned on their Twitter today that "Presents are always spoiled for those who open them before they're supposed to," I couldn't resist listening to Odd Blood, which is due out on February 9th. Following up their 2007 debut, All Hour Cymbals, Yeasayer scale back on the atmospherics with Odd Blood, utilizing a clearer psychedelic sound, and not muddling their melodies in experimental techniques. Tribal-sounding vocal harmonies shine on "Madder Red," while '80s keyboards and romantic lyrics turn "I Remember" into a destined mix CD favorite, and robot voices take over "Love Me Girl." While Odd Blood is easier to digest than Yeasayer's debut, the '80s influence that is on almost every track is a little too overwhelming at times. Instead of trying so hard to be different, perhaps Odd Blood would be a bit more cohesive if Yeasayer had focused instead on writing better original melodies. Still, there are several worthwhile tracks on the album, including lead single, "Ambling Alp," which is still as catchy as the first time you heard it several months ago. Overall, Odd Blood may just be an album that needs time to grow on you. Give it a few listens and see where it takes you.

DOWNLOAD: Yeasayer - Odd Blood [Secretly Canadian]
Recommended Tracks: "Ambling Alp," "Madder Red," "Rome," "Mondegreen."