The New Pornographers
Electric Version

THE REVIEW

They were supposed to be a short-lived side project in chilly Vancouver. Their debut, “Mass Romantic,” a meteor. How did it end up? They hit the jackpot! Leading this top-tier lineup is the promoter, former Zumpano, voice and author of 9 out of 13 tracks, Carl Newman, and the added value, the sensual and over-the-top Neko Case.

Following this second effort, the New Pornographers hurried to clarify that the band is their primary commitment, rather than a short-term experiment, confirmed by the subsequent summer tour.
“Electric Version” deserves two reviews. At first listen, it is amazing, engaging, powerful. A power-pop worthy of Kniks or Pixes. Explosive choruses that grab you on the first listen, impossible not to be swept away by this overwhelming collective happiness. It reminds me of the scene in “Full Monty” where the protagonists, standing in line at the employment office, can't resist Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff.” Similarly, I challenge anyone to stay still while listening to these vibrations! I remember when it came out in June 2003, it was a drug for me, I couldn’t take it out of the player.

However, the album also has significant limitations, masked by the enthusiasm that permeates the entire album. The songs eventually become a bit predictable. In short, if it’s true, as Calvino said, that “A classic is a book that has never finished saying what it has to say,” (albeit with due proportions) this is not a classic! That doesn’t take away from the fact that it’s certainly a good album, and the New Pornographers a band to follow today and in the future. And if it’s energy you’re looking for, this is for you!