It’s getting a bit wearisome now; band after band releasing a collision of indie pop and synth fuelled electro records. But that only makes Rubik’s new album, ‘Solar’, all the more miraculous for achieving such an innovative sound from a tiring formula.

For those who remember the band Clor, who burst onto the scene in 2005 with a light-hearted blend of electro-pop, there are some distinct parallels here. The charming use of thick synthesizers and Nintendo-esque chimes on ‘Solar’ create a familiar and reassuring ambience, animated by some eccentric vocals and jingly guitar work. One notable difference is that Clor’s demise came promptly after releasing their debut album, when they separated a year later. Rubik, on the other hand, already have two studio albums in their back catalogue and they sound like a more developed band for it.

A central theme to ‘Solar’ is unconventional but inviting melodies. While they can initially catch the listener off guard, they soon reveal themselves as cleverly crafted hum-a-longs. This is unashamed classic pop at its best, but is simultaneously fresh and unsullied, with each song recognizable and memorable in its own right.

The album kicks off with 20 seconds of Sgt Pepper inspired brass, before kicking into the frantic ‘World Around You’. The first full track of the record, it is a mesh of manic drums and spiky guitar guided by a vocal chorus which is destined to be chanted at a live show.

‘Sun’s Eyes’ is the next step on this whimsical journey of pop perfection, crashing straight into an exultant march of piano, pan pipes and rolling drums. This is perhaps the album’s height of musical euphoria. There are sombre moments in this collection too though. ‘Solar Death March (In Octaves)’ and ‘Towers Upon Towers’ ensure ‘Solar’ will not be dismissed as a cliché of frivolous pop.

Having gone straight to number one in their homeland of Finland, Bowlegs would love to see Rubik to get the international appreciation they deserve. SM