What makes This Is Happening by LCD Soundsystem notable?

'This Is Happening' debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200 and received widespread critical acclaim, with publications like Pitchfork praising its maturity and depth. It marked a significant moment for the band as they shifted from underground success to becoming a definitive voice in modern dance music, influencing countless artists in the genre. Released on May 1, 2010, 'This Is Happening' was LCD Soundsystem's third studio album, following their acclaimed 'Sound of Silver' which had solidified their status in the indie dance scene. At this point in their career, James Murphy and his band were navigating the balance between mainstream recognition and artistic integrity, aiming to encapsulate their unique sound before announcing their hiatus after this release.

Who is This Is Happening for?

This Is Happening works well if you're into wave-like pacing with energy shifts, introspective moments for reflection and danceable anthems for gatherings.

How many songs are on This Is Happening?

This Is Happening has 9 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

This Is Happening

LCD Soundsystem · 2010

65 min · 9 tracks · punk · dance-punk

A dazzling blend of dance-punk rhythms, introspective lyrics, and pulsating electronic textures that evoke a sense of urgency.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with energy shifts
introspective moments for reflection
danceable anthems for gatherings
cathartic build-ups and releases

Maybe skip if you want

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Themes: nightlife satire· post-hipster disillusionment· dance floor transience
Career context: Released on May 1, 2010, 'This Is Happening' was LCD Soundsystem's third studio album, following their acclaimed 'Sound of Silver' which had solidified their status in the indie dance scene. At this point in their career, James Murphy and his band were navigating the balance between mainstream recognition and artistic integrity, aiming to encapsulate their unique sound before announcing their hiatus after this release.
Stylistic neighbors: Hot Chip· The Rapture· Soulwax
Sounds like this from elsewhere: One Life Stand by Hot Chip — Shares a vibrant dance-punk energy and introspective lyrics about relationships and nightlife.

Pieces of the People We Love by The Rapture — Combines danceable rhythms with post-punk influences and themes of modern disillusionment.

Odd Blood by Yeasayer — Merges eclectic electronic textures with an urgent, reflective atmosphere similar to LCD's sound.