Music review: The Cars – 鈥楳ove Like This鈥�
The Cars – ‘Move Like This’
The Cars haven’t moved like this since 1984’s “Heartbeat City.” The Cars may have finally run out of gas after 1987’s “Door to Door,” but on “Move Like This” the synth-rockers are clearly firing on all cylinders. The first studio album from Ric Ocasek and the boys since 1987 is a sweetly flavored nostalgic offering that slickly harkens back to such Ocasek inspired classics as “Just What I Needed” and “My Best Friend’s Girl.”
While the original line-up of drummer David Robinson, guitarist Elliot Easton, keyboardist Greg Hawkes and guitarist/vocals Ocasek reunites to recapture the past magic, the late Benjamin Orr is noticeably missed on bass and vocals. Orr’s absence forces Ocasek to shoulder all the singing responsibilities. While Ocasek still sounds terrific on the new material, one can’t help but wish for an occasional ballad such as the incredible “Drive,” offered up by Orr’s passionate voice.
“Blue Tip” opens the album in true pop style as the quirky beats reminiscent of Devo bring back the glory days of the band. “Keep on Knocking” follows with a vintage sound from the days of “Candy-O.” The first single, “Sad Song,” stacks up to classics like “Good Times Roll” and “You’re All I’ve Got Tonight” from the debut release. The Cars are indeed back and just as good as ever. “Move Like This” is just what I needed to get going and shake it up for summer.
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