Anyone that saw the SNL performance by MGMT has to have been intrigued by the interesting songs that they brought forth.  The reality?  Although those songs worked live, they're even more interesting as studio works.

MGMT utilizes a revivalist approach to their songs with sounds like '80s material for the most part.  With several albums already under their belt and a growing fanbase, expectations were high for their latest album, Congratulations.  But something happens when you achieve a level of success,  you have to deliver.  You're no longer a part of that "expression" scene.  Rather, the pressure is on to create in the way that endeared you to your already fickle fanbase.  Personally, I think MGMT delivered an excellent set with Congratulations.

The tracks found on this album are richer than anything found on Oracular Spectacular, or Climbing To New Lows.  The tracks are quirky in a wonderful way and brings to mind the recognizeable decades of the past with their excellent Pop/Rock songcraft.  But this shouldn't sway you from those earlier releases.  If you swing for Congratulations, know that you'll be even more rewarded with the completion of the catalogue.

I recommend that you investigate the music of MGMT yourself and not be swayed by some of the negative reviews that have been surfacing about Congratulations.  This is an issue of progressive improvement in the style of music that has been adopted by the band.  Congratulations exhibits that easily.