This Kentucky band has been making excellent records for some time, 2005’s Z being a particular highlight, so it was with some excitement that I approached this release. Theirs is a sound that is difficult to describe. Based around the extraordinary vocals of main man Jim James, they sit somewhere between rootsy Americana and blistering, pop-infused indie rock, all doused in a healthy dose of reverb. Whilst listening to this truly fantastic record, some names that sprang to mind were Prince, James Taylor and 70s-era Aerosmith. Shouldn’t make sense I know, but somehow, well, it just does. Sure to be up there with the best at year’s end. Get on board!