With 5 ½ months remaining in 2010 Menomena have dropped what I declare will be atop the mountain of “best albums” come the 31st of December, 2010. Slated for release on July 27th, Mines drops bombs. Unmistakably Menomena, Danny Seim, Brent Knopf and Justin Harris continue their tradition of mic-sharing, each contributing lead vocals as well as gorgeous harmonies. The trio of Portlandians Portlandish Portlanders once again delivers an eclectic collection of lushly layered landscapes that will delight and add to its growing fan base.
Despite the instantly recognizable vocals, this album comes in a slightly different package than its predecessor, Friend or Foe. Perhaps, Knopf’s recent release with Ramona Falls swayed the studio synergy, steering it towards less overwhelming waters. I’m not suggesting that Menomena has become a Ramona Falls Knopf-off, but there are striking compositional similarities in songs like “Dirty Cartoons” [Menomena] vs. “Going Once, Going Twice” [Ramona Falls].
Although the album’s original release was projected for January, 2009, the additional 18-month wait seems to have been worth it. These 11 tracks, spanning 54 minutes, drive the bar even higher for music in the new decade. Start to finish, Mines will blow yours.
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