MGMT deserves little "Congratulations"

MGMT is back with their new CD, "Congratulations," but they've also raised new questions. Is it possible for MGMT to top their unforeseen success from their 2008 album "Oracular Spectacular"? What will their new sound be, if it's even different at all? In my humble opinion, I thought they would stick with their previously effective sound, considering the success they've had, and that their new album would be just as wildly popular. Going into the album expecting the same sort of synth sounds as "Oracular Spectacular" was a mistake on my part, because it definitely made me inclined to not like the songs offered.

"It's Working" is reminiscent of The Beach Boys song "I Get Around," and reminded me very fondly of the opening credits in the 1989 movie "Look Who's Talking." Needless to say, I feel the song is rather dated and sort of boring, unless the listener likes that genre.

"Flash Delirium" has a similar background sound to "It's Working." In other words, it seems kind of old school, which seems risky on MGMT's part considering this is their first single from "Congratulations." They're either extremely confident this is what their fans want, or they're just crazy. On the other hand, it very well could be both.

"Siberian Breaks" sounds a bit like their previous record, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The voices sound similar in that they haven't progressed since "Oracular Spectacular," but then again. it's as if they have. It's confusing to define, but I think this song is one of the highlights of the album. It's recognizable as MGMT, but definitely illustrates the changes they've brought to the table. However, this track is only available on the album as a whole, so those listeners who pick and choose their songs from iTunes will miss out on this song. That is, unless they decide to make the dangerous decision to purchase the entire album.

"Brian Eno" leaves me wanting things like more of the song, and memorization of the lyrics so that I can sing the song by heart and enjoy the fast-paced beat. I mainly want to know who the heck Brian Eno is and why he warrants having a song?

From the moment I looked at the track listing for "Congratulations," the song "Lady Dada's Nightmare" held the most suspense for me. What was it going to try to do – offend Lady Gaga? It is actually one piece of instrumental work among many songs of lyrics. Approximately one minute and 40 seconds into the song, a weird, screaming creepy noise ensues, which is the first sound besides the instrumental background sounds of drums and the like. The song was a disappointment as my expectation was a hateful song about Lady Gaga or something equally amusing.

"Congratulations," the CD's namesake song, is the last track on the docket, and if we're being honest here, it is by far the album's most attention-grabbing and interesting song. It's sort of slow, but then again, the lyrics are very clearly delivered, unlike a great many of their other songs on this album or otherwise. "Oracular Spectacular" was also a gem amid its track listing with "Electric Feel," a personal surprise hit; that is to say, it was only a popular hit in my mind.

The majority of the songs on "Congratulations" are not fit to my tastes or expectations, which may be the reason why I didn't really like it. For die-hard fans of MGMT, this CD will continue your love for them. For fans who really only enjoyed their last CD for the synth-pop music it held, this probably won't be your cup of tea. Last, but not least, for music connoisseurs who have a hankering for some music of old, this CD will fit the bill.