The Interwebs are abuzz -- and not necessarily in a good way -- about "The Moneymaker," the first advance track from Rilo Kiley's forthcoming Under The Blacklight, due out on August 21. With it's funky/sleazy attitude, throbbing bassline, simplistic lyrics and initially unrecognizable Jenny Lewis vocal, it's a stunning and, to some, worrisome departure in sound for a beloved indie band on their first major label outing. After numerous listens (and a few viewings of the video, which features fine-as-ever Jenny in the company of several L.A. porn stars), I have to say the tune is growing on me a bit (especially the bridge). But the burning question now is, did the band leak such an uncharacteristic track first in order to throw fans for a loop, or is the whole album going to sound like this? Well I've now heard two more tunes from UTL, and if the pattern holds, I've got news for you. But more about that later.For now, what's the consensus on "The Moneymaker"? And, especially if you're down with it, are you a longtime RK fan with an open mind or are you hearing them for the first time?
MP3: Rilo Kiley - "The Moneymaker" from Under The Blacklight
UPDATE: Stereogum has UTB cover art and is streaming another new track, "Silver Lining," that is far less likely to freak out the faithful.
