Sound: Their trippy, Southern jam rock has expanded beyond its rootsy foundation and frequently launches into spacier territory – think The Flaming Lips’ Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots – with Jim James reverberated, floating yelps leading the mission. However, driving and gentle piano, plus rippin’ guitar fills frequently introduce earthier tones.
Note: This is the first time they recorded outside of their hometown of Louisville, Kentucky and with an outside producer, John Leckie – whose credits include The Stone Roses’ self-titled debut, Radiohead’s The Bends and many other prominent British bands
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Wordless Chorus“; “What a Wonderful Man”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Off the Record“; “It Beats 4 U“; “Into the Woods“; “Dondante”
Recommended: To anyone who wanted My Morning Jacket to rein in and streamline some of their meandering tendencies or anyone who can appreciate a highly creative and talented group pushing themselves to make an eclectic and unique album.
Grade: B+