July 31, 2010

The Scissor Sisters' third nightlife-themed album, "Night Work," is a return to the glittery, flamboyant pop of the group's 2004 self-titled debut. Inspired by the New York music scene of the late '70s/early '80s, when disco was morphing into house, the set brings some intensely fun and lively material. The title track features catchy guitar riffs, quirky synths and a bassline reminiscent of the one in Lipps, Inc. hit "Funkytown." Produced by dance music extraordinaire Stuart Price, "Night Work" is dominated by stripped-down dance grooves, as heard on the songs "Whole New Way" and "Any Which Way." Scissor Sisters singer Jake Shears shows a darker side on "Harder You Get," where over a metal guitar riff he swaps his familiar falsetto for a low, creepy delivery. And actor Ian McKellen makes a guest vocal appearance on the slow-cooked house anthem "Invisible Light."—Ilya Skripnikov

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