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By most standards, Modern Guilt is a great cd. There's not a song that isn't enjoyable and some that are quite magnificent. Why, then, is Modern Guilt maybe just a little bit underwhelming? Is it because we're so used to Beck making quality music that it has to be as beautiful and interesting as The Information, Sea Change or Odelay to stand out? Or is it because this cd, unlike many of his others, doesn't mark a radical shift in his style, instead perhaps simplifying the style adopted for his last record? Maybe, in the end, it's just too short, clocking in at just about thirty-four minutes. Maybe it's the abrupt endings within the record, putting a stop to some of the better tracks without warning and seeming to stunt their potential. By any other artist's standards, Modern Guilt is a great record, but by Beck's, these flaws stand out. Also, if you're wondering about Danger Mouse's influence, well, it's more heavy on the bass.