Reviewed by Amanda Simms
After last year’s Pavement reunion tour, anticipation ensued for fans when it was announced that Beck would be producing Stephen Malkmus’ new album. Mirror Traffic feels like a distinct break from 2008’s Emotional Trash towards more melody driven tracks and, while lo-fi production fits perfectly with his style, it’s nice to finally have a sharper sound throughout an entire album. There are plenty of times where the songs have a heavy Pavement feel but I can’t honestly say it’s a bad thing, especially as it’s taken to a more mature level than previously. This album has a solid upbeat beginning and then meanders through a typically long number of songs. It definitely feels like his most solid solo work yet. As usual, the lyrics are everything from humorous (“what the senator wants is a blow job”) to heartfelt, and just downright witty (“too busy putzing round the Internet / revel in the disconnect”). However, what’s more important than all this analysis is the simple point that it’s a really enjoyable album that gets better with each listen.
