From the second the powerful chords of “Odd Soul” begin, MuteMath makes a clear statement that this third album will be their most confident and self-assured endeavor to date.
Aptly titled Odd Soul, the album is the closest to the core of MuteMath when compared to their self-titled debut Mutemath and Armistice. The New Orleans troop has come into their own, and the product is a fast-paced, soulful journey. This band has just arrived with a third installation that should cement a place of respect in the alternative music world.
While their music has always had spunk and spirit, the vivacity of “Prytania” and “Tell Your Heart Heads Up” takes it up a notch from previous hits “Spotlight” and “Electrify.” Both display a funky guitar groove and dance-worthy beats. Try not to sing along with head crooner Paul Meany.
Roy Mitchell-Cardenas has a time of it with his bass lines, and drummer Darren King deserves a decided nod for his hard-hitting and talented percussion. It is hard to believe that such intricacy and artistic phrasing can be produced from three members.
“All or Nothing” has a surprising shift after a mellow beginning of electronic guitar phrases. Halfway through the song, a piece that would have been just fine as an open-shut song with verses following a chorus in a predictable manner gets better. A synthesized, psychedelic segue comes out of nowhere to transition to electronic mania. It really is worth a listen.
“Quarantine” is a seven-minute masterpiece. The percussion at the four minute mark will blow your mind. Accompanied by Meany’s smooth vocals, the effect is that much more dramatic. Slow buildup intensifies the eventual release of energy and truly gives the music critic and MuteMath lover something new to respect.
“In No Time” satisfies the Mutemath requirement of a pulsing ballad-esque number. Documenting where a relationship was in the past to its degradation, the lyrics promise that “we’ll get it back in no time at all.” You will be left feeling uplifted without knowing a definite reason.
The music video for “Blood Pressure” was released before the album hit iTunes as a teaser, and with constantly changing tempos and an inherent attitude it adequately displays the band’s musical ability and aptitude.
“Sun Ray” will remind listeners of the complex instrumental songs that have become signature staples for MuteMath albums. This low-key jazz lounge piece provides a break to a consistently
This reviewer could go on to describe every single song on Odd Soul (and basically already did), but I wholeheartedly suggest that readers purchase the deluxe edition on iTunes as soon as humanly possible. The bonus tracks “Sun Ray Part II,” “Cold Sparks” and “Amendment” are worth it.
Hardcore MuteMath fans may be surprised at the tone of this album, expecting the band’s stereotypical unique sound.
This album channels old school blues rock (a la The Black Keys) and lays on electro-rock-alternative-MuteMath charm. This concoction makes the album irresistible, and perfect music for a drive, or an impromptu jam session.
It is sure to win the group a score of new fans, and if more seasoned listeners will give Odd Soul a few fair run-throughs, they are sure to recognize its worth. This band is one to keep your ears tuned and eyes peeled. MuteMath has only just realized its niche and has a lot of potential to keep pumping out worthwhile music.
The reinvention of Mutemath
