It’s with a sigh of relief that the latest effort from Brooklyn based White Rabbits is produced by Spoon front man Britt Daniels. The news brings a certain reassurance that this is not just a remodelling of Austin’s finest export (listening to ‘The Salesman’ or ‘Rudie Fails’ could fool even the biggest Spoon fan), but more a collaboration. So call off the dogs and enjoy the better moments to be found here. ‘Percussion Gun’ drops us straight into the band’s world of big rhythms, rasping vocals and distorted guitars; a spirited piano always on hand to bulk out the sound. The scene is set for the remaining nine songs, all brimming with energy, enthusiasm and a few memorable moments. One highlight being ‘They done wrong/We did wrong’, demonstrating the sextet’s capabilities to merge melody with their natural flair for inventive ryhthms; the second half veering into a stream of keyboards and showering piano; sinking the track into a wave of melancholy. The band, who consist of two capable drummers, look to construct patterns, merging drum tracks, building an irrepressible swing to every passage; and they are wholly successful on this level. Yet it can feel as though the song writing is restricted by such an approach, no room for the melodies to grow beyond the ever-present beats. Despite this, Daniel’s production is faultless, bringing a treasure trove of Spoon’s back catalogue, to spark ideas and assist the band’s vision; helping to create a confidant and assertive record. The strained and hoarse vocals of Stephen Patterson are more than a match for the up-front production; the quiet opening of ‘The Lady Vanishes’ especially confirming his credentials. The song itself is a highlight, leaving plenty of space for the singer, easing up on the pounding rhythms, it’s an acoustic based gem. This a good album, yet it’s what might come next, when everything falls into place, that’s exciting. They might even start to rival Daniels and crew soon, which would really be saying something!