"Weird Al" Yankovic Releases "Alpocalypse"

The Alpocalypse arrives bearing accordions and Hawaiian shirts
on June 21st, 2011.

"Weird Al" Yankovic returns today with his latest effort, Alpocalypse. This is his first release in almost five years, preceded by 2006's Straight Outta Lynwood and rhe associated hit "White & Nerdy." Alpocalypse is exactly the music we've come to expect from the parody legend; it is the master of his craft adroitly mixing a dry cocktail of witticisms, parody and polka. In other words: Ray Manzarek plays the organ and Yankovic provides a surprisingly convincing Jim Morrison in a satirical look at Craigslist, Taylor Hanson guests on a Hanson style parody about a person who obviously knows nothing of love, "Whatever You Like" plays on T.I.'s hit of the same name with a cheerful recession-based theme, and about a million instances when the album is delightfully predictable. No, there is nothing new on this album other than the songs Yankovic chooses to lambaste but, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. While comprised mostly of top 40 hits, Yankovic pays tribute to deserving bands via style parody, tackling the White Stripes, Queen and Meatloaf, as well as the Doors (and for some reason, Hanson). I would not call this album remarkable, though I can't find anything bad to say about it.  It's the sort of album that people who enjoy listening to Weird Al will enjoy listening to. For people who are ambivalent, I recommend trying it. For those who entirely dislike Weird Al, I don't assume you've read this post.