Studio mainstays for well over a decade, 's and can wring an expert production from nearly any song, whether it's synth-based or band-based, instrumental or vocal, unadulterated pop or colored with some other genre shade thereof. Their fourth album as includes all of those approaches, so file it as another in a career of ever-evolving records that have moved them from chilled downbeat into dynamic alternative pop. A dedicated rhythm section appears on half the record, accentuating the feel that this is a band record -- albeit impeccably produced -- with an array of guests taking vocal turns. As before, the songs are written well and the guest vocalists are selected with care, but they're usually overwhelmed by the numerous production touches. Each song is a variation on the pop form, whether it's straight commercial pop on neo-soul on folkie introspection on or starburst electronica on The best and most natural blend occurs on which has a bit of indie guitar over its sheen of electronic pop, with vocals from himself and the most impressive of the guests, (who sings over five tracks total). Though are still not in the same class as (or even ), is an enjoyable record that shows them apparently on the way to something more unique. ~ John Bush