Just imagine how crazy the four songs on “Madder!” are, if they’re too mad for “Mad!”
Essentially, the brothers Mael are back with a quartet of songs that didn’t make the last album, but like all Sparks songs, they’re a lot of fun.
“Porcupine” is typical: weird harmonies, bubbling synths – and the fact that Self Esteem appears in the video, much like their recent collaboration with Gorillaz, perhaps speaks to their ongoing influence.
“Fantasize” is three and a half minutes of a fever dream, but the harmonies they uncover are unlike anything anyone else would even think of, frankly.
There’s something of the nightmare about “Mess Up,” yet it’s so hypnotic you can’t resist it – even if no one really has a clue what Ron Mael is talking about.
The acoustics are out for “They,” and as ever there’s something lurking just beneath the surface.
And they, we, you, whoever, will never truly fathom it, because Sparks are one of those bands who view the world slightly differently – and occasionally allow us a glimpse into their universe.
There’s none “Madder!” – and few better at whatever it is Sparks do, even if no one is entirely sure what that is.
Rating: 8/10
