From The Desk Of We Are Scientists’ Keith Murray: The Parker Novels By Richard Stark

No one can call Brooklyn-based rockers We Are Scientists one-dimensional. The band has engaged in extracurricular activities ranging from creating a comedic TV series to self-improvement seminars. However, singer/guitarist Keith Murray and bassist Chris Cain have returned to their day job to release fourth album Barbara (PIAS/Masterswan). WAS, who were without a drummer since the 2007 departure of Michael Tapper, have added former Razorlight skinsman Andy Burrows to the lineup, and Barbara features a more eclectic sound, with the often-brash group experimenting with slower tempos and fuller arrangements. Lead single “Rules Don’t Stop” is vintage Scientists, though; it’s a nervy power-pop song driven by a thumping bass line. The single debuted at number 14 on the U.K. indie charts, and it’s already an anthem for mustachioed hipsters everywhere. Murray is guest editing magnetmagazine.com all week. Read our brand new Q&A with him.

Murray: Chris and I have long been obsessed with pulp detective novels; any book that features a man solving mysteries and punching other men in the throat is OK with us. Our most recent fixation, though, has been with a character named Parker, who is the essence of the “antihero.” This dude is a career larcenist whose entire moral code is based upon utility, which, while not necessarily commendable, is sort of respectable. Parker’s emotional reserve is such that he can undergo wholesale facial reconstructive surgery as a means of evading a syndicate of murderous mobsters without ever stopping to question whether the lifestyle that’s led to such an eventuality is one actually worth pursuing. The guy is essentially a shark, consistently moving forward to the next score without fear, pity or compassion. He’s also great at punching men in the throat. We love him.

Video after the jump.