So, this really has nothing to do with TheTechLounge, but such is the beauty of a blog, no? Since their first album, LP has always been one of my favorite bands (of which I have few), so it follows that I've eagerly awaited a new album from them since Meteora came out. Today it finally hit the stores so I swung by and picked it up.

I reserve any judgements until I have listened to the album at least a few times over and had time to let it sit. But, my first impressions follow:

This latest album is a big leap from anything LP has ever done before. They are quite clearly evolving, as artists. I haven't decided for myself yet whether this change is for the better or not. Either way, though, I appreciate the creative process and I know that as an artist you must continue to challenge yourself and step outside of your comfort zone. Otherwise you will quickly bore yourself and your audience.

So far I have listened to the album once over and am just beginning to listen to it again as I write this. My overall impression at this point is one of mixed feelings. On the one hand, I am sort of mourning the death of LP as I knew it (yeah yeah, pour on the cheese). On the other hand, I truly am appreciative of their evolution as a band and I do think I would have been disappointed if the new album was just more of the same, especially after such a long wait.

I'm leanings towards a thumbs-up for their new direction; some of the songs are immediately catchy, while I think others will grow on me.

I'll post in a couple of weeks with my updated thoughts after I've had time to listen to it more.