The Magnetic Fields "i" ****

Like everyone else, I've fallen behind in my blog work. But before I move on, I had to post on the Magnetic Fields newest album because I think my comments will advance the Canon of Feltus music reviews.

This is a great album but not for everybody. The Magnetic Fields are best know for "69 love songs" - 69 two to three minute meditations on love. Over three CD's and a lyric book heavier than the average novel, I can report that there are actually only 50-something good songs and a dozen above average. A stunning piece of work and a daunting one to follow up. These guys squarely aim at the black turtle neck crowd - art school drop outs, people who actually care about the Knitting Factory, people who despair of radio or anything mainstream, people who know the difference between Reno Dakota Blue and Pantone 292 (vs. Toyo colors), people who spell Stephen with an "i".

The irony is that Stephin Merritt writes perfect pop songs. Great melodies - simple but emotional. He his master of the corny couplet. For example : "I would give my right arm/to keep you safe from harm/I would keep a little farm/chop would to keep you warm" from "I don't love you anymore" "My evil twin would lie and steal/He would stink of sex appeal" from "I wish I had an evil twin" The amazing thing is it actually comes off as sincere.

A big part of that is the interplay between his voice and the instrumentation, which is usually a cello although sometimes a piano, harpsichord or banjo. This allows a nuanced performance that other strings (ok, the ever popular electric guitar which does make an appearance) don;t allow unless you are Hendrix, Page or Clapton. While you would thing that every song is a slow orchestra number, styles is all over the place. Likewise, tempos vary and different songs high light different instrumentation.

Merritt's voice is a big part of why this works. Like Morrissey, his delivery is apparently flat, but actually has remarkable range.

"i" has every song starting with the letter I. But the songs range from new order-esque "I thought you were my boyfriend" (my favorite) to Jimmy Buffet style "If there is such a thing as love" (musically, not lyrically). We also do show tunes, operettas, and blue grass, finishing with the sublime love song "it's only time". But no matter what the style, they are basically (and I do not mean that pejoratively) great pop songs.

I only give it four stars because not everyone will like it. It takes a few listens to appreciate but it's worth it. Part of this is the first song is weak and not necessary (skip it). Likewise, "i" doesn't really work on random because it builds, like a concept album. I mean a concept album in the sense that each song is a musical step, not just a series of linked lyrics - more like a symphony of three minute pop songs (as opposed to the Wagner opera of 69 love songs). If only every "concept" album put as much effort into the music.

Make sure you get the one with Fred Tomaselli cover. Another talent.