Album Review

of Montreal/Casiokids – Split 7

• 6th Apr 2011

Join me in getting slightly excited for Record Store Day on the 16th April. Independent record shops internationally celebrate the art of music by releasing some (pretty cool) stuff exclusively for the day, a happy music nerd celebration.

Indulge yourself in some underground pop geekary in the form of this treat: A split 7” containing a cover of Buffalo Springfield’s Expecting to Fly by glam indie-pop staples of Montreal, and new original London Zoo from Norway’s electro-pop darlings, Casiokids.

There is a nice surprise in the choice for of Montreal, which sees Kevin Barnes stripped down to unexpected vulnerability given his tendency for sometimes delirious, over sexed entertainment. It tugs the heartstrings of this classic track in a haunting direction. You’ll want to stop and just, really listen.

Casiokids follow with London Zoo, with just the right amount of contrast and compliment to of Montreal. Infectious, light hearted synthy beats with no demands. Luckily language is no barrier to the enjoyment, or understanding, of electro-pop. This is particularly true of London Zoo. You just get it, and get happy. Look out for the electro animal sounds.

Check your local independent record shop on the 16th if you’d like it for your own.