Earlier this week, I was overtaken by the urge to listen Ratatat. I dubbed the day “Ratatat Day,” promptly dumped both the “Ratatat” and “Classics” on the iTunes and whiled away the work day. The very same day, news of a new Ratatat album finally surfaced. After just under 2 years away, Pitchfork announced that the band would be returning with a new album later in the year. In anticipation of the release of their third (and possibly 4th, if the press release is to be trusted) Ratatat has released the single “Shiller”.
Both songs play out in an unexpected way, floating on a hazy cloud of beat-less mush. It’s discernibly Ratatat, but far less active than one would expect. “Shiller” spends over 2 minutes meandering through a calming murk of synth wash and harpsichord before the familiar coo of processed guitar sound punches through. “Mahalo” is even stranger, pumping another beatless track through what sounds like a Hawaiian wax cylinder. It feels a little like spacier Mars Volta wearing a lei; the song floats up toward the rafters almost unaware of the audience. While it’s not necessarily bad, but it certainly is different. Classics was a bit of a downer, less outwardly energetic than their self titled debut. I’d be amused to think that they’d release a beatless ambient album…amused but a wee bit disappointed. Luckily, our questions will be answered in less than a month when the new record is released.
Shiller by Ratatat
Mahalo by Ratatat
You can purchase the 7″ single from Beggar’s Banquet for $3.00. Their 3rd album, possibly titled “LP3″ releases June 8th 2008.
Recent Comments