Debut full length from one of the most unique bands to come out of New York at the start of the century. TV On The Radio seemed to come out of nowhere with their debut EP Young Liars. Their sound was a blend of post punk and doo wop with heavy experimental tendencies. The twin powerhouse vocals of Tunde Adebimpe and Kyp Malone were buoyed by Dave Sitek's inventive production. It was challenging and accessible all at the same time, creating hi expectations for Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes. Fortunately, the album further fine tuned their sound into something that was deeper, darker, and denser than their debut EP. Adebimpe's vocals grew to be more distinctive and captivating, while the production became evermore ambitious. The group brought in elements of soul, jazz, spirituals and psychedelic rock in a way that no other indie band has done before or since. However creative the group was musically they were just as earnest and determined with the songs' subject matter. Adebimpe tackled issues like race and the more subtle politics of relationships, along with anti war themes in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The album moves through brooding and bleak moments to nostalgia invoking ecstasy. There are few dull moments on Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes, as TV On The Radio seem to have given everything that they have with the album.

• black double vinyl pressing
• custom etching on side D
• digital download included
• original release year: 2004
• music label: Touch And Go 2014

reviewed by Hank Ohs 01/2015