Published on October 19th, 2012 | by greg
0Paul Banks: Banks:: Review
Paul Banks is a 21st century New Yorker who is continually on the go. When he’s not recording with his main gig, Interpol, he’s off with a myriad of other projects. Banks records under his Julian Plenti moniker, DJs, works with rap musician EL-P as well as releasing music under his own name. Banks’ debut solo album carries his surname for the title and once again it appears that Banks is setting himself up for reinterpretation. Banks is an all together different effort from Paul Banks’ past output as it appears more textural and electronic. A somber mood pervades on Banks and it’s increasingly difficult to shake.
No matter how much Banks attempts to let light in, songs like “Arise, Awake” feel like early morning preparations for a funeral. “Young Again” opens with brighter chords that elevate Banks’ almost ironic, deadpan delivery. “I’ll Sue You” is a claustrophobic and odd track. Is this a veiled message to someone? If so, it’s the most tuneful threat that I’ve had the opportunity to hear lately. “Paid for That” and “Another Chance” continue in the same maudlin vein established by “I’ll Sue You” and a reprieve is granted in the form of the driving “No Mistakes.” Closer “Summertime is Coming” is suitably brooding, dramatic and sardonic and is exactly what you want to hear coming from Mr. Banks.
Rating: 
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