BECK

Modern Guilt

2008-08-18

The days of light-hearted subject matter on sun-eyed girls, turntables and microphones, and dancing alone are gone (for now). Has Scientology made Beck lose his sense of humor? Or maybe one can only be fun for so long in such a frusterating world. Beck’s experimental enthusiasm may have taken a backseat to produce a more listenable device. Modern Guilt tackles Beck’s more serious side (a la Sea Change) with songs about our inevitable demise, brainwashing distractions and unfounded fear. Although it may be hard to hear these thoughts over Dangermouse’s dexterous beats (DM has successfully collaborated most recently with The Black Keys, MF Doom and Cee-Lo to form Gnarls Barkley). Chan Marshall (aka Cat Power) also shows up to offer her sultry vocals on a few tracks. This short, thrity minute album leaves you on edge, in wonderment and eerily satisfied. ---- Nicole LaRae

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Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.