personally... talking bird was my least favorite. not only a least favorite, but i really really just dislike it. i need to give the album a few more listens overall though before i can say anything else.
EDIT:ok, i listened to it a few times today/tonight and i have come to the conclusion that i albsolutely love it. it reminds me of them VERY much. i dont think they have strayed. and koen, i suggest listening to some more of their older music maybe? transatlantisicm (sp?) is their best i think and one of my all-time favorite albums, but anyways... here i go:
bixby canyon bridge: i like the feel of this song. i think its a good opener and honestly kind of reminds me of 'marching bands of manhatten,' with the upbuild and such.
i will possess: slightly long intro, but they have been known to do that. if you just want ot rush to the song i can see how it would be annoying, but if you just have it on while doing hmwrk or something i find it rather pleasant. and actual song is a bit stalkerish for me, but i still enjoy it and find myself singing along
no sunlight: the beginning reminds me of the ramones or something. i dunno. but anyways, i like the upbeat of this one as well and the drum beats in it.
cath..: when i heard hte acoustic version i hated this song. however, on the album i think it is lovely. the lyrics i cant relate to too much, but that happens sometimes.
talking bird: just dont like it.
i find the lyrics stupid and a poor attempt at trying to be clever or witty or symbolic and bleh.
you can do better than me: kinda reminds me of the beatles. very fun beat, and contains those wonderful emo death cab lyrics.
grapevine fires: this song i could listen to on repeat for hours on end. its just beautiful to me.
your new twin: this is an alright song... it doesnt do much for me. its cute the metaphors, but eh. just alright.
long division: the chorus kinda annoys me..
pity and fear: i love the various instruments they used in the background and the feel it gives the song. i think it has a good steady buildup. not too shabby of a song.
the ice is getting: absolutely love this song. while some of the rhyming is predictable, i still love the lyrics. and i love his voice in this song the theme reminds me of 'tiny vessels,' which is one of my favorite songs by them as well.
overall: 8/10
least favorites: talking bird, long division, twin sized bed
favorites: you can do better than me, grapevine fires, the ice is getting thinner