anyone heard this yet? i think it's fab.
less orchestral than the "soft bulletin", less conceptual than "yoshimi", retains it the sound of its predecessors and shows the diversity of the band - from the prog rock of "free radicals" to the potential indie hit "mr ambulance driver" and the electronic playfulness of "haven't got a clue" it shows the capabilites of the band in creating playful yet melancholic songs on very different bases.
the best song has to be "the sound of failure", a wonderful 7:20 min. mid-tempo song with a wonderful groove, that evolves into a psychedelic ambient piece. and "vein of stars" might as well be one of the most beautiful songs the Lips have ever recorded, combining great lyrics with a distinct guitar riff, and maintaining an aura of psychedelica.
i must admit this album has its flaws and not every song is a winner, especially since the standards are so incredibly high after their last two albums, but it's another great piece of work in the lips catalogue.
http://www.flaminglips.com