Beck is usually a little more hit than miss for me.  This one is a hit. Even with the misses, I always respect his willing to explore new concepts and start from scratch. He’s a chameleon of sorts, he’s constantly reinventing his craft (both musically and as a performer). That can be dangerous ground as a musician. Inevitably you’re going to alienate someone and ,if undirected, exploration just comes off as fake or precious.

I choose to think that Beck is genuine in his curiosity, though, and I really admire it. It’s tough to jump grooves, but he seems to constantly pushing.

Well, either way, he has a new album and it might be his most accessible since O’delay. I’m a big fan. I think the critical reviews have been lukewarm to full on warm (but probably not hot), but it’s a great listen and if you’re looking for a way to cut your teeth on post-O’delay Beck then this is your chance because it’s all hooks.  Also, that cover is great.