Playlouder - Music is the Network

Ratatat’s third album makes such a good initial impression because it seems to combine the strengths of several other electro groups without their weaknesses - the charm of Royskopp without the novelty value, the sonics of Daft Punk with the tedious warped vocals and the creativity of Moby without the hippy BS. The inclusion of classic pianos, harpsichords and keyboard instruments gives the impression that its the sort of dance album that Stephin Merritt might make.

The atmospheric yet creepy opener Shiller is the albums highlight, it sounds like the best remix of a famous horror theme that’s never been invented. But interest quickly begins to disappear after a few tracks. Despite using a variety of instruments, the songs are all structured in too similar a way, with the instrumentation coming in for breaks between louder electronic swoops.

Although they buck the dance trend by keeping their tunes tight, around the 5 minute mark, one or two slow builders would’ve certainly have made a nice change of pace. The most interesting concoctions are placed at the albums beginning, but after these first 4 - 5 tracks the best tricks have been used and whatever happens after that will barely raise an eyebrow.