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Alt Rock Live CD Reviews

Portugal. The Man - The Satanic Satanist



Score: 10/10

Tracklisting:
1. People Say 2:59
2. Work All Day 2:59
3. Lovers In Love 3:14
4. The Sun 3:02
5. The Home 2:57
6. The Woods 3:12
7. Guns & Dogs 2:45
8. Do You 2:55
9. Everyone Is Golden 3:46
10. Let You Down 2:17
11. Mornings 4:39

Portugal. The Man is an always interesting and ever changing experimental/psychedelic rock band from Alaska. While they are sure to deliver something fresh each year, I can't seem to get enough of 2009's The Satanic Satanist.

The band's fourth studio album is satisfying beyond belief. Lead singer John Gourley, as always, delivers crystal clear vocals that seem to cut through everything else. Hauntingly spacey yet surprisingly upbeat this album is sure to evoke a wide range of emotions. It's hard to think the rest of the album can hold up against the ridiculously catchy first track "People Say," but it does this astonishingly well. Short and sweet, each song sticks around the standard 3 minute length and the 35 minute album leaves you wanting more.

John Gourley has stated on Portugal. The Man's website that this album is a representation of the independence and courage of his father and many others who fled to Alaska in the 70's. This being said the album takes on an interesting shape and it's a lot of fun to hold the album in this context while listening to it.

This albums acoustic counterpart The Majestic Majesty is also worth owning. A sucker for anything acoustic I may possibly like this album better. It is short one track however, "Let you down" is not included. This album showcases Portugal's raw talent and offers wonderful musical ambiance.

Both of these albums are an easy 10/10 and a wonderful addition to anyone's music library.