Deerhoof
Friend Opportunity
2007 | Kill Rock Stars
Since 2005’s “The Runners Four” Satomi Matsuzaki’s vocals have become noticeably structured and patient. The typical static flashes of sounds and off-key chirps are replaced and streamlined with melodies that work within the songs. Opening track “The Perfect Me,” with its dynamite pedal steel jumping out during the end of the song, and the bluesy riff-driven “+81,” are excellent examples. While Matsuzaki sounds more like a “singer” than ever before, Dieterich and Saunier continue to rock and spike the songs with sounds and riffs that bounce off the walls, settle, and crash into each other. The focus throughout the album is easier to grasp, and longtime fans will most likely deem this album “safe.” But at the same time the trio haven’t sacrificed any of the amazing guitar and percussive dynamics that have made Deerhoof one of the most exciting and progressive bands in the country.
Most people I know have either a strong attachment or blatant dislike for this band, some peeps just like music that treats them nicely. But if you’re still curious and undecided then “Friend Opportunity” is the best chance ever to get into Deerhoof, especially if you’ve never heard a note from them. This is assuming you like adventurous pop music that is experimental and manic during a few measures and suddenly slides right into a bizarre vocal melody. Still, Deerhoof manage to capture every sound and idea that you wish you could think of and constructs them into an accessible batch of tunes.
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