Ra Ra Riot - The Rhumb Line

The Rhumb Line (2008, Barsuk) Ra Ra Riot's first studio album. ****

The tragic death of drummer John Pike in 2007 didn't detract Ra Ra Riot at all. If anything, it pushed them on, almost forcing them to stay on course with a goal they all agreed on; to make beautiful music. The Rhumb Line is mixed with tributes to Pike, but instead of sounding depressive and mournful, they sound inspired. It is clear that the band feels things will never be the same, but they don't make the audience pay for something they can't understand. It starts off with "Ghost Under Rocks," a galloping introduction. The Rhumb Line is full of string arrangements (actually played by band members, imagine that!) and energy, bordering on the cusp of something I can only describe as proto-classical rock. Make sense? Didn't think so. Let me explain:

The Rhumb Line and Neon Bible used strings extensively, and since they could so easily be transposed into classical arrangements - especially "Winter 05," which is almost a classical piece on its own - that they push the boundaries of alternative rock and chamber pop, possibly further into something completely new. Maybe?

If Ra Ra Riot has any shortcomings, it's that their energy isn't always engaging. It doesn't tire, but sometimes a slower moment would be welcome. I unfairly compare The Rhumb Line with Neon Bible (because I do so unfavorably) in pointing out the balance that Neon Bible had. The title track was perfect after the sonic blast of "Keep the Car Running." And while the first three cuts of The Rhumb Line are then thankfully mellowed by the sleigh bells of "Winter 05," the tempo speeds up again for "Dying is Fine" and never again backs down. It doesn't hinder the album horribly. They're so damn good at writing genuinely good hooks that if they ever learned the value of pace, they'd already catapult themselves among today's best artists. But don't fear, Ra Ra Riot have already placed themselves as one of the most exciting and most promising breakthrough bands of the year. (Ghost Under Rocks, Dying is Fine, Oh, La)