My Love is Real & Would That Not Be Nice – Divine Fits

“Supergroup” suggests musical heroism, songs that soar above mere “groups” with skill, power, and combined strengths of all involved. They have the technology. They can build music that is faster, stronger, and better than before. Mere mortals should stare in wonder and fear at the passing shadow of the supergroup.

The Divine Fits have been labeled as one of these fabled creatures. Dan Boeckner of Wolf Parade, Britt Daniel of Spoon, and Sam Brown of New Bomb Turks have combined to record an album and tour. The resulting album from this “supergroup” would be expected to have the indomitable groove of Spoon, the bristling guitar of Wolf Parade or the weary electronica of Handsome Furs, and the humor and aggressive hardcore of New Bomb Turks.

Single “My Love is Real” is good but not nearly “super.” It doesn’t sound much like a combination but more of an enhancement of the member’s previous groups. Handsome Furs-y buzzing electronics and drum machine claps pulse to Boeckner’s moans while Daniels provides backing vocals. The song is wholly under Boeckner’s influence but Daniel’s soulful “love is reaaaaalll” at the two minute mark shows it isn’t only Boeckner’s show.

The second single “Would That Not Be Nice” lives up to the hyperbole surrounding the group. It’s got the Spoon rhythm, the New Bomb Turks power, and Handsome Furs shimmering keyboards. Its groove digs into you immediately like the best Spoon but has a complexity and willingness to experiment that removes it from Daniel’s normal minimalism. It recalls different parts from each band without falling into any of the members’ past pursuits. The last minute in particular is something truly new and exciting. “Would That Not Be Nice a true blend of the members involved. Fast, funny, and freaky, the Divine Fits certainly have the elements to make an honest shot at fulfilling the potential of “supergroup.”