14.
Architecture In Helsinki
Places Like This

“He’s a mean talkin’ beanstalkin’ icy man.” What does that even begin to mean? What does it matter? The antipodean invasion continues with the third album from nut-job experimentalists, Architecture In Helsinki (from, well, not Helsinki). Places Like This is not quite as good as In Case We Die, the album that introduced me to them, but it is really close. Never afraid to try things, anything and everything makes an appearance in here, including the kitchen sink. The musicianship is top notch, but of more importance is the willingness to explore, and an obvious joy taken in making music. Most of the songs here are packed full of oddball happenings, crazy noises and fun. Essentially, Architecture In Helsinki are a prog-pop band, which means they are something of a unique proposition. Their live show is one of the most awesome I have ever seen (amplified by the fact that they rotated instruments throughout), and was certainly my gig of the year. A happy as larry silly slice of joy. Go get.