Art Brut

I know you guys know London’s Art Brut. Pitchfork gave them an 8.9… for what that is worth.

Maybe someone can please clue me in. But I don’t know if they’re serious or a joke. Like are they ironic in a post-modern hipster way? Or are they for real? Maybe they’re both and that’s what makes them so good. Either way ‘Bang Bang Rock & Roll’ is one of my favorite albums of the year.

But my favorite Art Brut song isn’t off of ‘Bang Bang Rock & Roll.’ In true Art Brut style it is of course a b-side. “Home Altars Of Mexico” is the b-side to Art Brut’s new single “Good Weekend.” On a total surface level, this song is totally stripped down and less in your face compared to the tracks on ‘Bang Bang Rock & Roll.’ But it walks that fine Art Brut line… somewhere between being totally serious and totally off the wall silly. I almost feel like “Home Altars Of Mexico” sounds like a kid’s song… like it’s all playful and the way Eddie Argos’ voice goes up and down. But it’s not really a kid’s song. Is it?

Listen: Art Brut – “Home Altars Of Mexico” (mp3)

Of course the big news last week was when Art Brut’s guitarist quit via livejournal.

Purchase Art Brut “Good Weekend” (single): Amazon

Purchase Art Brut “Bang Bang Rock & Roll” (album): Insound | Amazon