Maps & Atlases
Album: Beware And Be Grateful
Label: FatCat
Tracks: 10
Website: http://www.mapsandatlases.org

The second album from the Chicago math-rockers sounds a little looser than the self-conscious marriage of world rhythms and Vampire Weekend exuberance on their debut, Perch Patchwork. This time out they've relaxed enough to ease up on the intense noodling that has previously threatened to stifle their more accessible instincts - for these ears at least.

That's not to say there aren't a few avant-pop excursions to tickle the stroked chins of the clever folk that don't like to dance - there's even a full-scale guitar solo on the record's centrepiece, Silver Self. Fortunately the self-styled asymmetrical pop of tracks like Winter, Fever and Remote & Dark Years are more typical, with tight, clipped drums; reedy, elaborate guitar; fluid, funk-chewing bass; restrained synth and singer David Davison's assured vocals calling the party-starters to the indie dancefloor.

Maps & Atlases are like the Bloc Party who learned to enjoy themselves, Vampire Weekend without a trust fund, Fleet Foxes with a party to go to… they're OK these kids.

Nick Churchill
www.thegranvillechambers.co.uk