On Point and Red

By the time "Lightstrands" begins, the listener has a good idea that this sophomore album is a keeper. Whether it's the song structures, orchestral background effects, or general British early-ambient thread throughout, one cannot do anything but smile and enjoy the sonic ride. The sum is much greater than the various parts, but on numbers like "A Blind Tomorrow" and "No Longer Ortona," each bandmember perfects his or her role crisply and succinctly. The subtle repetition in basslines, drum patterns, and guitar chords adds a certain intangible something that builds in each track. The only flaw in this album is the fact there is no flaw anywhere, except perhaps for the brief but blatant techno on "The Block Alone." A definite sleeper pick, but one which is ridiculously joyous.