[4/5] What began in 2001 as a long-distance exchange of music a la the Postal Service between Paul Meany (vocals/keys) and Darren King (drums) has since blossomed into a full-fledged experimental rock group who now call New Orleans home. Electronica-heavy yet surprisingly hook-laden, Mute Math's self-titled major-label debut bursts with hip-hop backbeats, emotive vocals and deliberate guitar samples, all while remaining an incredibly mellow listen. We're not sure if we want to get up and dance or sprawl out on the floor and zone out-but really, having the right to choose is a quality most records don't even provide. "Chaos," the obvious first single, incorporates a slow-fast chorus with electric guitar and sci-fi-inspired keyboard accents, while "Noticed" could easily be at home on the Police's 1980 album, Zenyatta Mondatta. The vibrant soundscapes woven throughout the tracks on Mute Math cover enough ground that both indie scenesters and Warped punks alike should find some equal footing. (TELEPROMPT/WARNER BROS.) Rachel Lux
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