Album Review: LCD Soundsystem - Electric Lady Sessions
In what may become a recurring tradition, dance-punk legends LCD Soundsystem have once again recorded and released live versions of some past material, perhaps to tide fans over while waiting for their next proper album. Recorded at the titular studio in Manhattan, much of the material performed within is from the band's previous record, 2017's American Dream, and appears much more alive when free from that album's occasionally sterile and overproduced vibe. The occasional differences in composition also help; tonite is played faster with extra vigor, while call the police has James Murphy sounding more in control of his vocals, still emotive without coming off as strained.
get innocuous, the lone cut to be found here from the band's magnum opus Sound of Silver, is arguably much more tight and groovy here than its debut over a decade ago. The deep, almost ominous synths of the original version here seem to mimic the grimy shredding of the guitar chords they take a backseat to, all underneath a vocal performance that discards the eerie, almost ambient intonation in favour of something a bit more lively. Pushed forward by the addition of driving hi-hats on top of the already ample percussion, the track is a perfect example of the in-person energy that is hard to replicate on a studio album.
This approach does not always produce the best results, however; i used to feels virtually identical to its first incarnation, with the exception of a slightly less powerful vocal performance and a more submerged, incoherent rendition of its guitar solo. you wanted a hit off of 2010's This Is Happening adds a somewhat acerbic bite to its vocals, yet this abrasiveness bleeds into the production and leads to a messier sound overall. Another cut from that album, home is presented here stripped bare of any dynamic variance, decently catchy yet deprived of much of what made it great in the first place.
In addition to past and present material, the band also bookends the album with cover songs, notably opening with the Human League deep cut Seconds which fits wonderfully into the band's unique blend of moodiness and synthpop. Also of note is a cover of I Want Your Love by Chic, another odd choice where Nancy Whang takes the vocal reins for an immensely enjoyable funk track. She reprises her talents on (We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang, a new wave song by underrated UK outfit Heaven 17 that ends things off as groovy as LCD Soundsystem have ever gotten; the decision to add other artists' repertoire to the record is a welcome display of versatility.
There was little doubt that the material on here would be stellar; these are still largely LCD Soundsystem songs, regardless of where or how they are being interpreted, and the talent that got the band all their critical praise is still evident in their virtuosity. Where Electric Lady Sessions finds its merit, while still being hampered by the lack of new material, is in the spirit the band brings with them, sounding at once carefree and yet intensely dedicated on producing magic once again. This might not earn them many new admirers, but their dedicated fans are the ones this album is meant for, and they will no doubt eat it up.
8/10
Favourite Tracks: (We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang, get innocuous, tonite