the Informer

Brooklyn-based duo, MGMT, released their second studio album on April 13. The record, entitled “Congratulations,” was described by NME as a collection of “frenetic, brief psych nuggets,” “echo-drenched mini epic tendencies” and “classic MGMT.”

Lead members Ben Goldwasser and Andrew VanWyngarden have been working together on their synthesized, electro and psychedelic rock sound since 2002. “Congratulations” serves as a testament to the pair’s constant growth and musical evolution.

In an NPR article, Goldwasser and VanWyngarden described “Congratulations” as a “no singles” album. The article continues to explain, “They will not release or promote any one song from the record. Instead, they encourage both listeners and radio stations to play the songs that jump out at them.” However, the duo released the song “Flash Delirium” as somewhat of a “taster” for the new album. Through a free digital download and a science fiction, cinematic music video, “Flash Delirium” has served to conjure a great deal of interest for the new record.

The album opens with the palpable drum beats of “It’s Working.” The surf-rock style guitar lines work to accent the soaring vocals of Goldwasser and VanWyngarden. Dreamy harmonies erupt amidst a whirlwind of dramatic instrumentals to give the record a solid start.

With “Song for Dan Treacy,” MGMT pays tribute to British psychedelic-pop singer/songwriter Dan Treacy of Television Personalities. An overall “busy” song, the track features trippy synth, ‘60s psychedelic style organ sounds and bright chimes to highlight the tune’s danceable ambience.

Bare-bones guitar riffs accompany the sweet falsetto of VanWyngarden to begin “Someone’s Missing.” Again, the duo utilizes the synthesized organ sound to give the song an old school vibe. With soulful beats and powerful electric guitar chords, the tune erupts into funky, ‘60s swagger.

“Flash Delirium” opens with a mysterious, rumbling bass line that erupts into a thumping, rhythmic chaos. Amidst the duo’s building harmonies, smooth synth lines kick the chorus into high gear. Eerie ambient noise underscores passionate vocal lines and anthemic chanting.

More airy snyth melodies usher in “I Found a Whistle.” The pair’s silky vocals and imaginative lyrics are certainly the highlight of the song, as the song builds up to a slow, beat-heavy end.

“Siberian Breaks” opens with a mellow acoustic guitar line. The slow-moving tune maintains a calm, peaceful vibe throughout, complimented by soaring Beatles-esque harmonies.

MGMT pays homage to British musician, composer, producer Brian Eno in the aptly-titled “Brian Eno.” With powerful chords and fervid vocals, the thick beats of the tune are undeniably infectious. In the catchy chorus, the duo sing, “We’re always one step behind him. He’s Brian Eno.” Hailed as a principal pioneer of ambient music, it only seems fitting for Eno to receive a nod from Goldwasser and VanWyngarden in this brilliantly adventurous, toe-tapping number.

With a lengthy instrumental intro, “Lady Dada’s Nightmare” experiments with synth melodies and environmental noise. The song plays on to become a bit disarming as the listener is greeted with ambient voices screaming bloody murder through thick static. However, later in the song, subtle pizzicato strings and tranquil, humming synth lines bring the tune to a tranquil end.

The album ends with the title track, a dynamic peaceful ‘60s-infused serenade. “Congratulations” moves with delightful ease and grace, emitting the feel of a Woodstock-era ballad. Over the chill strains of acoustic guitar, VanWyngarden croons, “As strange as it seems, I’d rather dissolve than have you ignore me.”

MGMT’s newest creation is an absolute knockout. For an avid fan of their first album, it is a delight to hear the leaps and bounds that the pair are taking in their musical expansion. MGMT have not only maintained a level of their original sound in this album, they have further developed their style into the exhilarating release. Old and new fans alike will undoubtedly be thrilled with “Congratulations.”