Hot Chip- Coming on Strong (2000)

Hot Chip released a lot of fantastic albums over the course of their discography, including their last year release that was unfairly overlooked by most critics for some reason. They never made anything like their debut though, similar to Coldplays Parachutes- it's a case of the the first album being more shy and minimal before the group blows that sound up in the following records. Hot Chip has produced some stellar loud dance tracks but nothing will beat those simple, liitle songs of Coming On Strong.

Most tracks here revolve around a catchy synth hook and extremely delicate and clear voice of Alexis Taylor, which has always been one of the biggest selling points of the band. His performance it the last leg of Keep Falling is just stunning, same with Bad Luck. The centerpiece of the record is Crap Kraft Dinner. The build-up is absolutely worth it, I never thought I would hear such an emotional song dealing with shame and regret while also constantly mentioning Kraft Dinner. The closest thing this album has to a low point would be Shining Escalade, it starts out a little dull and repetitive but the instrumental finish makes up for it completely.
If you are at least slightly interested in synth rock, dance rock and all that kind of stuff it’s a must-hear position. Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of Hot Chips later work but missed out on the debut it’s worth giving it a try. There might not be as many big singles that are ready for the floor on Coming On Strong but it’s among their most consistently enjoyable records.

Rating: 9/10