The Young and the Restless: James Murphy and 20 Somethings
“What Is it About 20-Somethings” and LCD Soundsystem’s “This Is Happening”
In its August 18th issue, the New York Times Magazine published an article titled “What is it About 20-Somethings,” by Robin Marantz Henig. The article takes a look at growing trends of people in their twenties putting off marriage, kids, settlement and permanent career choices. Henig’s article is well-researched and looks at several implications of this new category of young adults. This includes the relationship between parents and older children, the effects of class on delayed “adulthood,” and the idea that this age is a distinct stage in development, which demands social programs to foster growth (just like childhood and adolescence).
James Murphy, LCD Soundsystem
The tone of “What is it About 20-Somethings” is a little on the academic side. Henig is definitely on the outside of her “emerging adulthood” (a term coined by psychology professor Jeffery Arnett). To round out the perspective of the article, I recommend This is Happening, the latest CD by LCD Soundsystem.
James Murphy, the creative force behind LCD Soundsystem is no youngster himself. But the tone of the whole album is fun, electronic music with sneering vocals and flippant attitude. This is Happening is a great, high-energy dance album. Rather than chancing a playlist when you are trying to get people moving and shaking, you could pretty much play this album start to finish instead and bet on it.
But it's not all glitter. Murphy’s lyrics reveal a bit of fatigue from partying. With songs like “Drunk Girls” and “I Can Change,” it's clear that humans cannot live by disco alone. There is a delicate balance on the album, where Murphy is walking a fine line between exuberance and malaise. Henig writes about emerging adults that feel weighed down by freedom, with so many options for life, love, and careers that it's hard to know where to turn or what will feel substantial and “adult.” LCD Soundsystem knows this all too well. Sure, they’re throwing the party, but you’re still lame for thinking that’s cool.
James Murphy and LCD Soundsystem: "Drunk Girls" Video
(Photo Via: Blogs_SF Weekly)