Liberation - Trans Am

Trans AM: Liberation

I'm a fan of most of the different directions Trans AM has gone over the course of their career and, from this perspective, the album does not disappoint. The songs are perhaps more traditional in their structure than some of the previous Trans AM albums, but that is not to say this is just another 'post' rock album. It's less experimental, but more immediately accessible. I would imagine most listeners will enjoy "Liberation" right from the start.

A couple points of criticism are in order. First, the songs are thematically related by their textual component alone. That is, their political message is the strongest connecting thread through this somewhat scattered album. After spending a fair amount of time listening from beginning to end, I'm not picking up on strong specifically musical connections. One review points out that this feels like a collection of b-sides. I would go that far, but I agree that a coherent musical direction is lacking in this album unlike, say, "Future World" or "Surrender to the Night." At the same time, the variety of music directions keeps things interesting and unexpected. I'm not counting the issue of focus against "Liberation," but it's worth noting.

Second, I realize how unpopular G.W. Bush's administration and policy is, but it is such an obvious theme. Without taking a political side, I'd just like to say that this dead horse needs to be put to rest. Trans AM is smarter than to make an album that so directly deals with post 9/11 political unrest. For one thing, we've heard it done plenty. There's nothing new here. Secondly, there is a distinct lack of subtly, especially with tracks like "Uninvited Guest" as if their point wasn't obvious enough so they feel the need to spell it out for us with doctored Bush quotes.

For me, one of the beauties of art is how it can aestheticize an idea to present it distinctly different from how it would be presented in a speech or in a news article. When one's thesis becomes too obvious, you have to wonder why they're communicating these ideas in such a direct manner, when they should be doing it mostly through the music. This isn't always the case, but with "Liberation", I feel like I'm being constantly reminded of something that was all too transparent from the beginning.

At this point, I've become more critical than I initially intended. This is a strong album, and a fun one as well. If you can forgive the cookie-cutter political messages and just rock out to the music, you'll probably enjoy this a lot. Even though it continues to receive mixed reviews from Trans AM fans, I think it's worth checking out for yourself. 30-Second previews on iTunes or Amazon give a sufficiently clear picture of what's in store. Overall, this is a strong addition to Trans AM's discography, but one with a few flaws that will undoubtedly date the album.

Sound of Speed

Not just good music for driving fast comes from this trio-- NO! So much more.... and this album reveals that. And it is as good as all previous. I am glad they got political on Liberation. Kinda hard not to as of late (yes I am writing this WAY after it came out-- but I got on to hear samples of the new release-- and felt compelled to write as they are so major rad).
I cannot describe how amazing their music is. It completely blows me away. I grade papers to their music. And I could never say one album is "best" but the following I frequent most: this one (Liberation), Futureworld, Surrender to the Night, self title album, and TA. Try them all. Just amazing. And listening to the samples of Sex Change-- sounds to me like they are just as talented and versatile as ever. On pins and needles awaiting release... eeeeee.....

One of my favorite bands hands down.

Too Political

For the most part, this is a pretty good album. Where it falls short is in the message. This is my first Trans Am album, so I think I need to dig a bit deeper. I like their choice of arrangements and their use of textures.

Best yet

Okay, these guys aren't for everyone, as you can see by some of the butthead reviews, but generally if you liked 80's pop, the good stuff that is, and instrumental synth bands like Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream, you should give them a try. In my opinion this is their strongest offing yet. Especially loved "White Rhino" and "Washington DC".

More consistent than their previous efforts

These guys are on to something, and Liberation is there most consistent effort yet, political propaganda aside. Until now, Trans Am's albums have been spotty with 50-70% of the content being great and the rest, filler and experimentation with sound textures and colors. Don't get me wrong, I have never regretted any Trans Am purchase, but I have found that making my own collection of certain tunes from various albums provides a more satisfying listen then letting the record spin from start to finish. Liberation is an exception. With less "experimentation" and more song writing, these musicians are maturing well in their craft. Plus, I really like Sebastian Thompson drumming.