From The Desk Of We Are Scientists’ Keith Murray: Lightspeed Champion

No one can call Brooklyn-based rockers We Are Scientists one-dimensional. The band has engaged in extracurricular activities ranging from creating a comedic TV series to self-improvement seminars. However, singer/guitarist Keith Murray and bassist Chris Cain have returned to their day job to release fourth album Barbara (PIAS/Masterswan). WAS, who were without a drummer since the 2007 departure of Michael Tapper, have added former Razorlight skinsman Andy Burrows to the lineup, and Barbara features a more eclectic sound, with the often-brash group experimenting with slower tempos and fuller arrangements. Lead single “Rules Don’t Stop” is vintage Scientists, though; it’s a nervy power-pop song driven by a thumping bass line. The single debuted at number 14 on the U.K. indie charts, and it’s already an anthem for mustachioed hipsters everywhere. Murray is guest editing magnetmagazine.com all week. Read our brand new Q&A with him.

Murray: We were fans of Devonte Hynes (a.k.a. Lightspeed Champion) before he became one of our best friends, but it’s only through coming to know him personally that we’ve begun to fully understand the depths of his genius. While we’re out drinking ourselves stupid on margaritas, he’s writing songs for, like, his sixth solo side project. While we’re playing Big Buck Hunter Pro, he’s recording note-faithful cover albums of his favorite records. Once, while house-sitting for Chris (Cain, bass player of WAS), I managed to watch all of season one of Da Ali G Show on demand. When Dev stayed at Chris’ place for a week, he wrote, recorded and released (online) a 15-song Lightspeed Champion “EP.” Screw this guy. He’s making us look bad.

Video after the jump.