Beck – “Modern Guilt”

On July 8, 2008 Beck released his newest album “Modern Guilt”. Another huge transcendental step for the already multi-genred musician. 2006’s “The Information” was extremely sample heavy and much more processed sounding. But his collaboration with Danger Mouse (of Gnarls Barkley fame) lead to a unique, loud, cleaner sound. “Chemtrails” is a track almost reminiscent of Radiohead, with a reverberating vocal track, powerful drums, and sweet airy organ and powerful piano.

Beck also seems to have deviated from his usual wacky, non-sensical lyrics. But now he croons with true, more evident meaning, comparatively to his older work of course.

The entire album has a similar bassy, crunching sound to it. Almost a less guitar-ed version of The Black Key’s “Attack and Release”. Now this doesn’t come as much of a surprise seeing Danger Mouse produced the Blues duo’s album as well.

I give the album an 8.5 out of 10
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Listening to: “Needle in the Hay” by Elliott Smith.