Posted on 10/26/2009
Let’s be clear: The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are not overly complex. The group is not going to wow listeners with thought provoking lyrics or confuse them with intricate, ambiguous songwriting. Instead, what this band does is pound consistently with its brand of dance-heavy electronic drum and bass. Such is the case on the New York City trio’s latest recording, It’s Blitz!, the group’s third full-length album and sixth release overall. If you are looking to unwind by dancing the night away, then this album is tailor-made for you. However, if you’re looking for deep and brooding music with a message, look away because your search continues.

Since 2001, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs have fused elements of punk and new wave to generate its own signature sound. What has transpired over the years is a respectable hodge podge of frantic pace and rhythm, accentuated by the group’s heavy reliance on electric guitars and pulsating “blow-out-your-speakers” style bass. That style has served the group well so far, even though it runs a risk of locking the group into a creative box. To date, the trio has released a host of EPs and two long players: Fever to Tell in 2003, and Show Your Bones in 2006. Both albums garnered critical acclaim for The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and put the group on alternative music’s radar as a major player in the industry. With It’s Blitz!, the group looks to further solidify its place on the map, while also giving its fans more of what they’re accustomed.

The album begins quickly and doesn’t let up. The album’s first single, “Zero,” launches the record with fierce dancehall-like intensity, while the disc’s second song, “Heads Will Roll,” continues that pace. “Skeletons” should be respected because of its experimentation with seesawing pace and timing, while “Little Shadow,” the album’s last song, should be commended for tying the record together and easing listeners out of the frenzied sonic jungle that ensues for most of this 10-track player. Unfortunately, many of the other songs sound alike and lack the staying power to keep one’s attention.

It’s Blitz! rattles off like a perfect setlist for an afternoon pop music hour. In fact, those looking to create just the right playlist for their next party need look no further than The Yeah Yeah Yeahs latest release. What this album lacks is “umph,” a standout quality to keep listeners playing this album repeatedly. Undoubtedly, there are a few good tracks on this record, but it merely sounds like a collection of songs without a clear theme.

-Marcus Moore