Classics

'classics' remains resolutely instrumental, but the band has introduced a wealth of new sounds, from acoustic and slide guitar to sleigh bells and cello. their vastly improved production and writing makes this record a refinement of their art. ratatat lay squealing metal harmonies over choppy neptunes-style dance thumps, then break into pastoral waves of keyboard tone, riding dub tempos and hip-hop struts. they're crotch-pumping arena pimps and introverted minimalists. songs like 'lex,' 'loud pipes' and 'tropicana' all drip with effortless cool. the patented sound from the group's debut is still in place - twin guitar leads soaring atop fizzy, hip-hop beats - but ratatat has expanded their brushstrokes into every corner of the painting so that each listen yields new, greater rewards.