Telekinesis: '12 Desperate Straight Lines' Review

Artist: Telekinesis
Album: 12 Desperate Straight Lines
Label: Merge

The sophomore release, 12 Desperate Straight Lines, by Seattle’s Telekinesis represents a subtle change for Michael Benjamin Lerner. Since the release of 2009’s Telekinesis!, it is clear that Lerner has had one or more traumatic emotional experiences. Clearly, one of those experiences was losing love, as it is a running theme throughout the twelve tracks.

Chris Walla (guitarist, Death Cab For Cutie) is back as producer, and his influence is evident. However, unlike the playful nature of Telekinesis!, 12 Desperate Straight Lines is rife with raw emotion that cannot be ignored. Lerner truly pours his heart out in what he calls ‘desperate straight lines’, but these songs represent emotional jagged trails.

Heavy, fuzzy bass lines add to the sound of Telekinesis and command attention throughout the album, whereas “I Cannot Love You” represents the most alteration of what many grew to like in the bands sound. Rest assured, there is something for all on this album. For those old fans, “Dirty Thing” can serve as the repeat track on your chosen play list.

The bottom line is Michael Benjamin Lerner is capable of greatness. Is 12 Desperate Straight Lines his masterpiece? No. Be that as it may, the 2011 release by Telekinesis serves just fine as a pop record that can be admired by all…even if your heart is still intact.

Rating:  

by Brandon Bond

buy it at insound!