Although Light Up Gold wasn’t technically the debut from Brooklyn rock group, Parquet Courts, it was certainly a bold and impressive introduction for most of us. Capitalizing on the catapulted propulsion said record has given them, Parquet Courts has assembled a follow-up album that picks up where they left off while throwing a few extra gears and cogs into their musical machinery.
The stoner/slacker rock vibe is still ever present and still remains an integral part of their charm, but don’t let that fool you — these boys are sharp. Whether they’re rattling off rapid fire, punk-inspired rhythms complete with wirey fretwork or slowing down, branching out and breaking into densely-layered, foot tapping grooves, they manage to create and maintain an interesting blend of ideas. Sure, their presentation is rough around the edges and not a patch of Sunbathing Animal goes unscathed, but its scuffed surface and grubby demeanor are well-maintained for the most part.
There are a few occasions when certain tracks are left to wander a little too far on their own accord — “She’s Rolling”, for example, feels a little baggy with its unspooling harmonica section. However, on the opposite end of the spectrum there are moments, like with “Vienna II” and “Up All Night”, that are a little too abrupt to add anything of value. Outside of these issues, Parquet Courts brings bags of energy and enthusiasm to the party, but it’s their initiative to switch things up throughout and keep perpetual, zigzagging motion that makes them exciting to hear.
Sunbathing Animal is far from perfected and can at times be a little problematic, but it’s a work that’s pulsing with excitement and raw potential. It’s the slightly flawed but flavorsome product of a band who continues to show both the desire and ability to craft catchy, jagged, blues-infused rock for the hips, head and heart.