Thurston Moore: Demolished Thoughts

Thurston Moore
Demolished Thoughts
Matador Records [2011]









Fire Note Says: Moore + Beck = Indie Dream Team

Album Review:
My expectations where immediately high for Demolished Thoughts when I heard that Beck was producing Thurston Moore's new record and also figured you really could not go wrong with these guys working together. My assumptions were correct, as Thurston Moore shines in this setting of laid back tracks that substitute many of his Sonic Youth noisy trademarks for strings, strums and reserve. This is probably exactly the record you might think Moore would make at this point in his career but don't mistake the approach for passiveness, as "Circulation" has an intensity and urgency to it that will leave you on the edge of your speakers, while "Mina Loy" possesses the same type of musical struggle that is comparable to being able to just keep your head above water. This dynamic compared with Moore's relaxed but confident vocals gives Demolished Thoughts a complete depth. The production influence does show here, as many of the tracks are more introspective and float along much like Beck's Sea Change or other acoustic gems. The only piece that holds Demolished Thoughts back a bit is its 9 songs over 48 minutes, as several tracks seem to hold on a bit too long and the extra time does not add value. This small factor is overpowered by Moore's commanding song presence and the addition of other instruments such as harp and violin to the mix. Thurston Moore will always be in his comfort zone creating disruptive feedback art but his true talents are exploited on Demolished Thoughts and after just one listen will be respected by all who take the time to listen!

Key Tracks: "Benediction", "Circulation", "January"

Bands With Similar Fire:
J Mascis
Nick Drake
Beck

Thurston Moore Facebook
Matador Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony