Album Review: Interpol - "El Pintor" (Score: 8/10)

Interpol-El-PintorMaking complex, integrated rhythms and guitar lines sound simple is what these guys have mastered. Like their influences, Joy Division and the Smiths, the band makes the most use of spare components. Only Interpol’s fifth album since their 2002 debut, and their first in two years, it displays the serious work Interpol puts into their songwriting and recordings. The guitar shines on “Anywhere,” the monotone vocals work for the semi-heavy lyrics on “All The Rage Back Home,” and it’s all tied together with a rhythm section that creates a groove for thoughtful people, not necessarily a dance crowd. – Brett Bush