Rapid Review – 5/11/21

Weezer – Van Weezer: Weezer drops the awaited, guitar-centric album that they announced and was expected to release after the Black Album. However, they decided to release two albums during the lockdown as OK Human came out of nowhere. Looking past the cringey album art and strange motive, Van Weezer is short and hard-hitting with similar vibes to their Green Album all the way back from 2001. The music here is more conventional rock than the vulnerable, orchestral work of OK Human, but it still exudes the hallmark outcast theme of Weezer. The general energy of the album is still a little corny… but in a good way. 7-8

CZARFACE & MFDOOM – Super What?: The late legendary rapper collaborates with CZARFACE on this short, comic-themed record. MFDOOM-related content continues to push the boundaries of hip-hop/rap here in both the thematic and musical elements of this album. The MCs have flawless chemistry and there are clever samples of radio/podcast station clips, other media talking about the artists, etc. The commentary on materialism was remarkable, showing their awareness of the hyper-capitalist roots of rap and having the courage to critique it. Groovy and jazzy beats that remind me of MFDOOM’s choice of instrumentals are pleasantly sprinkled on some of the tracks, as well. Overall, a short and sweet piece to commemorate DOOM. 8-9

Squid – Bright Green Field: Post-punk band Squid releases their highly-anticipated debut, full-length album in an 11-song, 55-minute tracklist. Compared to their contemporaries, Squid already stands out with their patience and thus, effort they put in each individual cut. It's almost as if they are the Swans of post-punk with their crushing instrumentals, intense repetition, and euphoric transitions. On this album, they show that they are not afraid to experiment with unconventional sounds for post-punk (gospel/chorus, saxophones, woodblock, and more). At the same time, Squid can integrate elements that post-punk lovers care for like the vocals and hard-hitting bass drum parts (very industrial influenced in certain parts). I am really excited to see what this crew can do in the future. 8.5-9

boy pablo – Tuck Me In – EP: Some more nice, pleasantly expected tunes from boy pablo in the same style he has always been known for. I definitely prefer his work over any other “neo-indie” rock artist out there right now. 6-7