Mosquito Cover. Yeah Yeah YeahsIt’s been four years since Yeah Yeah Yeahs shocked their purist fans by releasing an electro-inspired album, ‘It’s Blitz’, despite being part of an NYC Rock and Roll revolution in the early ’00s.  They have returned with ‘Mosquito’ which they bizarrely describe  as their version of a “soul record”; a description that does not befit the sound coming from the speakers.

Lead single and opening track Sacrilege was released several weeks ago to a mixed a reception. It is one of those tracks that leaves you a little unsettled on the first listen, but eventually grows on you. In a special preview of the album lead singer Karen O expresses her disquiet at the addition of a Gospel Choir to some of the material. Indicating that not everything is as it should be within the group. In fact the choir is  an exceptional inclusion, bolstering the religious undertones already present, making Karen O’s comments even more worrying.

Subway is one of the strongest tracks on the album. It’s the band’s second ode to their home city of New York, Yeah! New York being the first. Using a subway sound here as percussion is a stroke of genius and it reminds us of the band’s impeccable ability to grab a listener’s attention. It’s a beautiful, tender song; with Karen’s voice achingly angelic at times.

Another song worth going out of your way to listen to is Buried Alive. This song features Dr Octagon, James Murphy and a host of other contributors. Together they’ve created a song that draws from classic ’50s rock n’ roll, modern electronica and hip-hop. It is certainly the most compelling track on the album, with the addition of Dr Octagon’s rap instilling something entirely new into YYYs’ musical artillery.

The album is not without it’s flaws though. Under the Earth is a roots reggae inspired track. Despite the band’s excitement about this one in particular, it is drawn out and uninspiring; there is something about the reggae beat and typical YYYs quirkiness that doesn’t quite mesh. Always is another one that fails to inspire. Although described as “Cinematic” it is a dud in comparison to some of the love songs they have written in the past; somewhat tuneless and emotionally flat, it is the biggest let down of the album.

Certainly not a “soul” album; this is a tempting mix of tracks that will warm your heart and lure you to the dance floor. ‘Mosquito’ is proof that Yeah Yeah Yeahs are a talented, innovative trio that are not afraid to dabble in the unknown. Despite some weak songs, this album is artistically interesting and largely an auditory pleasure; worth the four-year wait.