LCD Soundsystem

12/31/1899 9:33:00 PM

[4.5/5]

Previously available as downloadable data from iTunes through the “evil” auspices of Nike, 45:33 was commissioned as a workout soundtrack for non-elite athletes. Now receiving the expanded CD/vinyl treatment, the album is meticulously orchestrated for aerobic activities, displaying LCD maestro James Murphy’s deft arranging skills and sense of dynamics. Starting with bulbous, bubbling synth arpeggios, 45:33 eases into a jubilant piano motif coated by Murphy’s multi-tracked “oohh”s, pinpointing the moment when underground disco was morphing into house music. A gorgeous glockenspiel entrance evokes Kraftwerk at their most touching before the piece funkily accelerates into the bit where you really start to burn calories. If the glittery cosmic disco that composes most of 45:33 seems more at home in a trés-chic European discoteque rather than in gyms or on tracks, that’s just Murphy’s maverick spirit showing through like sweat stains. The three bonus cuts serve as an outstanding cooldown. (DFA; dfarecords.com) Dave Segal