Today, the Pet Shop Boys release their eleventh studio album, Elysium. It’s absolutely brilliant and, if I catch a moment in between running after Madonna across the country and awkwardly chatting with Britney via webcam, I’d love to do a proper review.
In the meantime, a down ‘n’ dirty synopsis: The record was recorded in L.A. with Kanye West producer Andrew Dawson–their first to be recorded in America. The opening track, “Leaving,” was and still remains my absolute favorite of Elysium. (It also happens to be their next single from the record–success!) The track plays like an instant PSB classic–melancholy melodies, lush production and signature pointed lyricism.
Other standouts include the brooding club thumper “A Face Like That,” ghostly power ballad “Everything Means Something,” the “Copacabana”-tinged closer “Requiem in Denim and Leopardskin,” and the deliciously shady “Ego Music,” an ode to the “fake humility” and “vacuous sentiments” of modern pop that drives me positively gaga with delight.
Elysium is a gorgeous, shimmering disco record–very different from the Xenomania-produced power-pop sheen of Yes–that fits in perfectly with the last dwindling rays of summer.
And so, to celebrate the release…
MuuMuse is giving away 3 copies of Elysium.
To enter to win, simply leave a comment on this post with the word “WINNER.” Three winners will be selected on Tuesday, September 18. US entrants only.
Good luck!
Elysium was released on September 11. (iTunes)