TV On The Radio - Nine Types Of Light

TV's latest unfortunately gets marred by tragedy as bassist Gerard Smith died soon after it's release. But the lung cancer surely did not weigh on the minds of anyone as the album was being written and recorded. This new one balances on the fence between the nation's financial frustrations and otherwise lightly dances romantically in the moonlight.

The album is bookended upbeatly by opening and closing tracks, "Second Song" and "Caffeinated Consciousness" respectively. Nothing hits as frantically as "Dancing Choose" did last time around, but they are strong tracks nonetheless.

On the other hand, I was a little disappointed at the lilting romantic tracks. In the past, TV have hit the nail on the sensual head with songs like "Wear You Out" and "Lover's Day".  This time, they move to a more commercial element with "Keep Your Heart" and "You". And while I wouldn't call "Killer Crane" commercial, I am confused by its inclusion. A mellow hippie excursion about a crane crossing the sky after the rain with rainbows. Cosmic.

There are some standout tracks though. While the aforementioned "You" is decidedly commercial, it's also quite good, successful in its prom themed intentions. Also, "No Future Shock" is a scathing dance track lamenting a serious lack of hope. Still a well-rounded enough effort that's worth a spin. (3.5 of 5 stars)