To say that the Norwegian duo Datarock is into the 80s would be an understatement. These two revel in the era. From their trademark red tracksuits to their releases, one cannot escape the 80s theme. Here on Red they keep up the same vibe they created with their debut release in 2005. Borrowing heavily from their 80s influences (Talking Heads' angular rhythms and rolling basslines, Police-esque reggae, Morrissey impersonations), Datarock have crafted another fun release full of synths and off the wall lyrics (a whole song devoted to 80s starlet Molly Ringwald?! (aptly titled "Molly")). The Talking Heads ode is a little more subtle even though the entire song is made up of their lyrics ("True Stories"). But no matter which artist they are emulating (or straightup ripping off), the mood is constant: upbeat (ie., "Dance!"). Although not setting the standard for electro-pop, just try to not get into these songs ("The Pretender" is prime Datarock with an excellent beat, catchy hook, bouncy synths, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics). Long live the 80s.
3.8/5.0
The album definitely grew on me over the last week. I really like "Fear of Death" and "Amarillion".
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