Art Brut Vs. Satan

Art Brut Vs. Satan is compelling for three crucial reasons. First, Black Francis–a guy who knows something about charging guitar rock-produced the sessions. Second: The guitar subterfuge of Jasper Future and Ian Catskilkin (the only good components to 2008's rather dismal It's A Bit Complicated, drive home these songs with a renewed enthusiasm. Lastly, frontman Eddie Argos' sing-speak ruminations are inspired once again, whether he's reminiscing about his youth ("D.C. Comics And Chocolate Milkshake") or riffing on his allergy medications as on the loose jam "Mysterious Bruises." His delivery is open-ended enough to confuse his intention (sincere? snarky?), which was the very reason their debut, Bang! Bang! Rock 'N' Roll, was so engaging. With luck, "one Zyrtec, two Advil and a drink" will replace "that's what she said" as 2009's catchphrase of choice.

Downtown www.downtownrecordings.com