Maximo Park's hooks have gone missing
Wow, so I used to think Maximo Park could do no wrong with their poppy, angular indie tunes, but this track 'Going Missing' is lacking any of the qualities that made me really like this band. Perhaps it's because I don't like change, but this doesn't linger in my mind at all; it's slower and void of those strong hooks that were present in songs such as 'Graffiti' and 'Apply Some Pressure'. It's not an altogether bad song, but it does make them sound like a second rate Futureheads, a comparison that has oft been thrown their way. Frankly this song is boring, the drumming plain, no energy is presented, though the lyrics are as stark and honest as ever. It's sleepy, nostalgic and hazy, yet slightly sunny, almost Weezer-esque in execution, but it doesn't quite work out in their favour.
Second track 'A19', apparently a live favourite, is much better. It's engaging and you get the feeling that this song would infact be awesome live. The guitars resonate throughout the song, whilst complimenting the sudden drum and vocal elevations. It contains an unusual song structure, which suits them much more than trying to adopt some form of toned down indie balladry mish mash as before.
Altogether I'd say this isn't the best Maximo Park single, and it won't be every fan's cup of tea. It appeals to me on some level, but only with the status of background music. I appreciate the previous upbeat and strong stylings of Maximo Park much more.