 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Artists M-O |
||||
Magnetic Fields - 69 Love Songs |
 |
|||
ALBUM REVIEWSPick of the Chick: Our Favorite Releases, 1999-Present |
|
|
Let me make this clear from the start: Stephin Merritt writes great pop songs. 69 Love Songs, the wonderful three-disc offering credited to the Magnetic Fields, is full of catchy, tuneful pop with sojourns into synth-pop, country, and outer space. Releasing three CDs at one time sounds like the work of an egomaniac. However, what struck me was how respectful Merritt is to the music--the instrumentation is carefully selected to match the tunes; various singers lend their talent to the lead vocals; and most importantly, the songs don’t include any filler. On most CDs, every song has to last three to five minutes; that’s why they often seem like a skinny man in a huge suit. On 69 Love Songs, tracks last as long as they're good. And some of the songs are, indeed, very good. Tied together by their humorous view of love, the highlights include “Let’s Pretend We’re Bunny Rabbits” (the most wholesome declaration of lust I’ve ever heard), the country-western “A Chicken with its Head Cut Off,” and “The Luckiest Guy on the Lower East Side” (which could have been a '30s tune). Merritt’s view of love is humorous, but not jaded. The first CD is the best, but all make worthy additions to any CD collection. And let me repeat: Stephin Merritt writes great pop songs. PIGEONHOLE: Alt-pop, like the Carpenters on medication.
Ken Gilland |
THE MAGNETIC FIELDS
