When MGMT released their first studio album, Oracular Spectacular, back in 2008, they basically placed themselves on the the Indie/Alternative map as a go to band for great dance (“Electric Feel”, “Kids”), ballad-y acoustic (“Pieces of What”, “Weekend Wars”) and just totally weird, eclectic tunes (“4th Dimensional Transition”). I myself loved the album, and MGMT has been a favourite of mine ever since, so when I heard that they were working on their second album, I’m sure you can imagine my excitement. It was a tough wait, but finally Congratulations is upon us.

The first thing I want to say before I talk about the music is that I’ve always enjoyed MGMT’s carefree style of both performing and their general manner, and this feeling certainly comes through in the packaging of Congratulations. I purchased the Limited Edition, and the coolest thing about this album case is that it has a scratch off cover, that’s right, a scratch off cover, and soon after getting it home (but after I had put the CD on of course) I found myself scratching away to reveal the image underneath. It was a strangely rewarding little activity, and I think it really reflects the fun and childish nature of MGMT.

Now, onto the main attraction, the music. If you’re just coming off Oracular Spectacular, you’re not going to love the album straight away. Sure, there are songs such as “Flash Delirium” and Congratulations that certainly have the same feel and mood as some of the songs of O.S, but I’ve noticed MGMT has gone for a more reserved approach, not to say that there aren’t some very adventurous songs, I just feel as though MGMT has found what their sound should be, and they’re not groping for a style as I felt they were on O.S. Though you can be thankful, MGMT has found the perfect blend between their dancing, electronic songs, and their acoustic/rock tracks.

One issue with some of the songs on the album is that I don’t feel as though they are fully realised or acted upon. Some tracks really hit a high and then are suddenly cut sort, only for the next song to begin, which will momentarily disappoint, sometimes leaving you feeling a bit unsatisfied with songs. Luckily, the next track is sure to be delectable, so you’re quickly reassured that yes, you are enjoying this music a lot.

MGMT’s Congratulations is something that can only be decided on after one full, uninterrupted listening. But I’m sure that you will find that Congratulations is not just an album, it is a gift, one from Ben, Andrew, Matt, James and Will. It’s a gift of what they have to offer, which is a beautiful blend of sporadic, almost meaningless lyrics, soothing guitars, echoing harmonic voices and alarming keyboards and synth. It’s something to call by MGMT’s name. This is what MGMT wants us to think of them.