They Might Be GiantsScience-fiction clearly states that any development in nanotechnology will most likely result in the destruction of humankind and some kind of grey goo covering the entire planet, but that ain't stopping Brooklyn alt.rock veterans They Might Be Giants from calling Nanobots to the front line. The album is like a trip through a mad-scientist's dreams, filled with complex drum fills, experimental interludes and catchy hooks in contrast to their token predictable melodies and absurd, bordering-on-immature lyrics (see Insect Hospital).
Circular Karate Chop is the most infectious track with upbeat synth and guitar riffs alongside Beatles-esque harmonies and vocal layering, while the title track reflects the band's past foray into kids music. The perfectly articulated lyrics, joyful bassline and brass section evokes a sound comparable to The Wiggles on acid.
The second half of the 25-track LP has jerky momentum thanks to a series of quirky nano-songs. Under a minute in length, tracks like There are cute and witty one-liners, but they're ultimately stand-alone snippets and don't provide any cohesion to the overall flow. Then again, They Might Be Giants have been getting their nerd on since 1982 and are not in the game to conform to any musical norms. There are redeeming tracks like Call You Mom with its epic power chord key change or the clever narrative lyrics of opening track You're On Fire that will have you out of your seat, albeit in a Mr Bean kind of a way.
Nanobots grows on you and if you feel a bit unsettled after your first listen, try again and you'll be crooning “Teslaaaa, brought the x-ray photo to the world” in the shower for weeks.
