MOG Editorial Review

Managing to expand their sound as much as a keyboard-and-drums duo possibly can on their first two records, Brooklyn duo Matt & Kim have finally turned to other instruments and production techniques on their latest, and the gambit pays off. While the punk energy that first gained them a following in the first place is still present on Sidewalks, they manage to incorporate a sound that brings a hip-hop influence into the fold. Electronics and drum machines play a big part on opener "Block After Block," and even if the sound may not work elsewhere, it shows that the duo have more possibilities than one would have though listening to their debut. Still, though, Matt & Kim remind you they're at their best when they're simple and lo-fi, as the touching "Northeast" reminds you why indie fans fell in love with them in the first place.