Grade: C –

L.A.’s programmed rock machine is back with another release. Call Bender and Rosie over for this party to begin.

The incarnation of Ima Robot was in 2003 when Virgin Records believed in the quirky sound of Alex Ebert and Timmy Anderson. The two friends have collaborated once again, exposing masses to futuristic music.

A contemporary trend of synthesized music has engulfed mainstream and underground bands. For some styles of music it is ideal, while others make it an addiction — digitalizing sounds for the sake of it. Ima Robot’s sound is futuristic, and technology drives time. A lot of artificial sounds and effects are on “Monument to the Masses” and it is not a bad thing.

“Cool Cool Universe” begins with a theremin, setting the scene for looping guitars and lyrics describing the state of all universal existence. Clashing guitars build above keyboards and programmed drums bring everything back to the chorus. This formula is quite consistent with other songs.

One song that breaks through as musically diverse and lyrically envisioning is “Happy Annie.”

As a love song, there are characters trapped in a plot and a climatic twist. Electronic drums begin this song with subtle vibes and hands claps. “Go get your mom’s white wedding dress/ And play bride with the family pets/ In her bedroom bells were ringing oh she/ Imagined everyone singing.” Ebert sings the best lyrics and backs it with emotion.

“Stick It to the Man” is a tongue-in-cheek political song. Palm-muted chords and fast-paced drums drive this liberal message. Wolf Blitzer and Bill O’Reilly are both referenced.

The entire recording is clear and static free. Several melodies found on “Monument to the Masses” are reminiscent of 16-bit video game soundtracks, including “Creeps Me Out.” This song is just as fun as that computer-driven performance in “Revenge of the Nerds.”

Ima Robot should have instead released a 7″ entitled “Happy Annie” with “Creeps Me Out” and “Cool Cool Universe” as b-sides.

As we know vinyl, is the future.