One of the most exciting Brooklyn bands return with their third LP Fragrant World. Yeasayer are a group that constantly develops their sound and yet again have not disappointed here.

The album kicks in with the danceable Fingers Never Bleed, a coherent return to the infectious yet nervous glitches and grooves their fans will be familiar with. Yeasayer seem to remain consistently innovative, offering something that is immediately palatable to new listeners but also rewarding those willing to delve that little bit deeper.

While it is true that this style of eccentric pop music may not be to everyone’s taste, those who do like it will love it. Fragrant World gets even more bizarre towards the end of the record, with Yeasayer’s tendency to dive head first into the psychedelic evident here on tracks such as Folk Hero Shtick. Sonically speaking, there is so much going on in this album that it will take several listens to truly appreciate the band’s outstanding song craftsmanship.

The production is as impeccable and dynamic as ever, incorporating styles ranging from electro to new wave effortlessly, without ever sounding out of place. The band’s use of layer upon layer of melody has given them a unique sound that is consistent throughout the various musical changes on the album.

Yeasayer have constructed a confident and diverse set of songs, which continues to put them head and shoulders above their contemporaries. Fragrant World highlights the rich diversity that this band constantly delivers.

-Sam Flynn-