Does MAGNETIC FIELDS want me to take them seriously or are they trying to make me laugh? Firstly, there’s the colourful stuffed animal on the cover of their latest album, Love at the Bottom of the Sea. Then it’s song titles such as ‘Infatuation (With Your Gyration)’ and ‘I’ve Run Away to Join the Fairies’.
Opening song, ‘Your Girlfriend’s Face’, maintains the comedy with a childish electronic sound and vocals that seem one step removed. Half of the album is like that. However, ‘Andrew in Drag’ may possesses funny lyrics but the vocals are less processed, the tone more serious and the instruments leaning towards rock. It makes me take the band more seriously and understand that comedic intent does not make the band a joke. The song is a highlight and one if the best in the indie genre this year.
Love at the Bottom of the Sea never won my heart but it makes for easy, enjoyable listening. Whether Beatleish or New Orderish, it’s charming enough to make me smile.
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