When Menomena’s ‘Friend and Foe’ came out in January I decided to use it in one of my hobbies; giving music I like to people who like music I hate. Primarily through the merit of the Ricky Henderson of a lead off track, my ‘My Chemical Romance’ loving ex-roommate became a fan, at least momentarily, of a band he would not have otherwise given the time of day.
Featuring an expert weaving of inventive drums, glowing organ, throbbing bass, perfectly disjointed guitars, simple and effective piano lines, and enveloping vocals, ‘Muscle’n Flo’ is instantly memorable. I like to imagine that the completed track gave the Menomena guys the same satisfaction I felt as a child after building a massive and beautiful Lego castle. I also like to picture what was going through my ex-roommate’s head the first time he heard the song’s absolutely stunning heart (1:45-2:45). I think he would have narrated it thusly:
The storm stills and the music fades into tranquil anticipation, sparse melody accompanied by ethereal echoes. An organ comes in like a beam of heaven’s light, shining through a crack in the sky’s grey armor. Redemption is nigh. The organ swells - a dam buster - illuminating the world of men with a taste of salvation from on high.
‘Friend and Foe’ is solid throughout. Perhaps more accessible at the beginning and a little less toward the end, it is an altogether rewarding listen. If you initially missed this album, let this track serve as an altar call. Cry out to YHWH, throw down your Asherah poles, sacrifice your fattened calf, don your sackcloth and make a purchase.
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