Isaac Brock and his revolving cast of mice have spent the better part of a decade honing a skewed brand of Pixies-influenced indie rock, beloved by rock critics and girls in dorms alike. Good News For People Who Love Bad News is their latest major label record. It’s still kind of weird, but the art-damaged aesthetic of past releases is combined with far more accessible songwriting, and as a result, this LP became the group’s commercial breakthrough. “Float On” is an unlikely candidate for a hit single– yelped vocals about driving into cop cars, an animated video featuring the band in 19th century regalia and weird moustaches– but its deliriously catchy sing-along chorus and marching band stomp are undeniable. “The World At Large” and “Ocean Breathes Salty,” retain the same hummability, tempering the melodies with clever guitar lines and an eccentric undercurrent. Other standouts include “Bury Me With It” and “Black Cadillacs,” providing a more rocking sound that’s in line with traditional Modest Mouse material; as well as the frantic “Dance Hall,” a genuine art rock freak out for all the haters who said that they turned pop. One of the year’s better guitar records– well written, diverse, and satisfying. 180 gram double vinyl pressing, with really cool sleeve artwork (arguably the best combination of pink and green since The Queen Is Dead?).

• 180g black double vinyl pressing
• original release year: 2004
• music label: Epic 2011

reviewed by Nick Catchdubs 05/2009