Gade: A-
The Magnetic Fields has set its usual crazy antics aside in favor of a throwback sound for the band’s 10th album, “Love At The Bottom Of The Sea.” The pop group has crafted a record of cheerful, ironic and sometimes humorous tracks with a synthy kick — reminiscent of the band’s earlier albums from the ‘90s. Stephin Merritt, the band’s founder and primary member, is still clearly having fun with the music, penning lyrics like “The only girl I’ll ever love is/Andrew in drag.” Although nothing groundbreaking, the album flows through both hyper songs and languid melodies to establish an entertaining collection. It’s nice to see a group with lasting power that can still produce quality work.