Best Music Week EVER: The Go! Team

Another great album being released this week is that of Brighton, England's The Go! Team. Entitled "Proof of Youth," it carries many similar elements from their first record, "Thunder, Lightning, Strike!" including the incredibly unique mixture of live and sampled instrumentation that is The Go! Team's trademark. The samples used here are fantastic and diverse; they include 80s funk/reggae band The Politicians, Glen Campbell, and even live vocals from the legendary Chuck D. That's not to say the songs aren't great too, in fact, I feel like this album is just as good as "Thunder, Lightning, Strike!" was, and perhaps even better in some ways. It's great to see them change their style up a bit on songs like "My World," which is an instrumental interlude reminiscent of something like James Taylor. I just read it is a cover of an Alan Parker song. I don't know him.

Speaking of their style, I believe that The Go! Team is one of the most unique groups out there today, if not the most unique. Never have I seen indie pop and hip-hop being used simultaneously to describe a band, but that is often the case here. I've heard of Beck being described as transcending genres, but The Go! Team actually does, blending 80s hip-hop/pop culture references and fun indie pop and everything in between, without missing a beat. But back to the new record, while it is by no means flawless, it's pretty damn good. It may just be the catchiest and most unique thing you'll hear all year. Go pick it up if you appreciate original music. At least listen to these songs.
-Erik

The Go! Team - Grip Like A Vice
The Go! Team - Fake ID
The Go! Team - The Wrath of Marcie