The Witching Hours Session – 09/04/2018.

LCD Soundsystem

LCD Soundsystem are an American rock band from Brooklyn, New York, formed in 2002. The band is fronted by musician James Murphy. The band began by recording and releasing multiple singles from 2002 to 2004 leading up to their eponymous debut studio album, which was released in 2005. It garnered critical acclaim as well as a Grammy Award nomination for Best Electronic/Dance Album. In 2007, the band released their second studio album, ‘Sound of Silver’, to critical acclaim and another Grammy nomination for Best Electronic/Dance Album. Three years later, LCD Soundsystem released their third studio album, ‘This Is Happening’, which became their first top-ten album in the United States.

In February 2011, a statement was posted on the band’s website that announced its disbandment. LCD Soundsystem later confirmed their reunion in 2015 as well as a new studio album ‘American Dream’, their fourth album, was released in September 2017. The album was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards.

Tonight’s listening;

1 – LCD Soundsystem (2005)

‘LCD Soundsystem’, is packed with extravagant grooves and dynamite riffs. A second disc which recaps some of the prior singles and B-sides is also pretty good and provides a contrast for the new material, which is the same only better, faster and harder.

2 – This Is Happening (2010)

At heart, James Murphy remains a dance music producer and these tracks reveal him at the top of his game. ‘This Is Happening’ doesn’t quite reach the heights of their last record but it serves as an almost-there companion and further proof that LCD Soundsystem is one of the most exciting and interesting bands around in the 2000s.

3 – American Dream (2017)

The years haven’t made LCD Soundsystem any less relevant or important, either. The times still require a great rock band that can tap into the anxieties of modern life while also dancing the night away. ‘American Dream’ isn’t just a triumphant comeback, it’s another great album by a great band. Probably my favourite album of 2017.