American Utopia is David Byrne's first solo album since 2004's . Of course, the ex- hasn't done nothing in the 14 bridging years. With , and he made three important albums. He also wrote a book on the music industry and lectured on happiness. In addition, he of course ran his own record company . Yet he seems to practice his old craft almost daily: making songs. You believe it immediately when
… American Utopia is running. What a lot of choruses that immediately stick, what nice rhythms! Old buddy Brian Eno co-wrote almost all the song material and electro magician comes to shake things up. In addition, with Rodaidh McDonald and Patrick Dillett, Byrne has two producers who push him to the limit. Album opener I Dance Like This starts with a sensitive melody and then surprises you with an angular beat. This alternation between reflection and exuberance characterizes American Utopia. A cheerful sing-along (Everyday Is A Miracle) and a catchy single (Everybody's Coming To My House) complete it. Ironclad return of a master! (JE)more