Paper Thin Walls

What I'm listening to:

"Dear Science"
TV on the Radio
I've often wondered what people see in Prince. Maybe it's a generational thing, but the only image I conjure up is that of Dave Chappelle with a basketball in hand and a plate of pancakes playing the Artist Formerly Known As ... on his hit Comedy Central show. I've seen the fascination, but I've also not listened to much of his music, aside from the singles I heard on the radio as a pre-teen.

That said, Prince seems to be the new Beach Boys/Beatles/The Band in terms of inspiration du-jour. Bands like Animal Collective, Dr. Dog, etc. have been channeling these seminal group's harmonics for a few years now. Now, bands like My Morning Jacket and TV on the Radio are looking to the funk-infused music of Prince for influence. And I must say I like what I hear.

Of course, I've been a big fan since the debut and this release, the group's third LP, only solidifies my positive feelings. Easily the most accessible album yet, "Dear Science" has shades of Prince's funk weaved into nearly the whole album.

Don't expect the faux-funk of watered down shit like Maroon 5, though. TV on the Radio's "Dear Science" captures such weighty subjects as generational guilt over slavery and making a girl come over and over until her face melts.

At 15 tracks, the album seems a bit long by my standards (I hold to the truth that great — pop at least — albums should end around 10-11 tracks; that said, this isn't really a pop release). But, don't let that deter you, as the final five tracks are among the best on the album.

Definitely worth checking out.