Customer Reviews

Lightbulbs

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

On Fujiya & Miyagi's third LP (and technically first studio album, as their previous two were compilations of EPs and singles), the band continues mining the sounds of Krautrock to build their sonic landscape. Oft citing landmark works by Can and Neu as influences, the instrumental electronic sound of the band is infectious, layering funky, bright guitar riffs over melodic bass and precision drums. David Best's vocal delivery is a mix of singing and talking, but he never breaks out of an intentionally stoic, subtle delivery. This isn't a man you'll hear break into a shout, but rather you can count on him to consistently utter his nonsensical lyrics into the microphone.

Opener "Knickerbocker" sets Lightbulbs off on a roaring start, standing as a prime example of the bands layered approach and smart-mouthed wordplay. "Uh" and "Pickpocket" continue this trend, but the fourth track, "Goosebumps," is one of the few really new sounds you'll hear on this album. Something of a ballad, the song uses more synth and melody than most of the album but still doesn't break any new ground lyrically. The rest of the album moves in much the same way as the first three tracks, and any fan of Fujiya & Miyagi will know what to expect. While there isn't a lot of new style or sound on this album, it is a very solid collection of songs, and something that will be welcomed by Fujiya & Miyagi fans and likely garner some well-deserved new ones. For newcomers to the band, definitely check out their 2006 LP, Transparent Things, as well.

'Lightbulbs' is utterly fantastic in every way. This is current, relevant, quality electronica at it's best! Tight, lush, at times dark and brooding, even quirky melodies with soundscapes that would make Kraftwerk and Depeche take note. The smooth, sexy vocals are incredible, half sung, and half spoken much like Steve Kilbey of 'The Church' (their latest offerings). 'Fujiya & Miyagi' paint interesting, involving, sonic 'feel good' landscapes that draw you in to the music and leave you begging for more!

Unfortunately this is a lesser version of Transparent Things and offers very little innovation on the band's sound. It is merely a rehash that takes no chances. A good but forgettable record. However the track Pterodactyls has a bass solo for the ages. Also, Uh, which appeared on the TV show Breaking Bad, is F&M at their finest hour.
All in all you would be better served to pick up a record by Neu! to discover the originators of this genre.

I found out about this band because one of the songs on this album was played on the TV show Breaking Bad. This album is great and fun. My favorite over the last 3 albums. Take a listen. All of their music is on the mellow side but with some fun lyrics. When I say mellow I don't mean boring. Just the opposite. This album is very consistent through out. Meaning I like all the songs.

An old addage states, "if you don't try, you can't fail." In this sense, Fujyia & Miyagi certainly didn't fail with Lightbulbs. With track after track of the same dull drone as the song before, it's hard to find the infectiousness of some of F&Y's previous efforts. It's not bad by any means, but it's also never as good as you want it to be... with one exception. On my first listen through, there was a brief, exhilerating moment that stood out brilliantly from the dingey monotony. Sadly, I can't remember what song it happened in and, perhaps tellingly, I don't have the patience to listen to the whole album over again to find it.