Let You Down

Its sophomore slump title to the contrary, Let You Down deepens and expands upon the shadowy brilliance of the Kingsbury Manx's self-titled debut, refining their uniquely pastoral psychedelia to achieve even greater uniformity of atmosphere and mood. The disc is less accessible than its predecessor, meaning that none of the songs immediately distinguish themselves from the others, but on repeated listens the inner logic of the music begins to take shape. Adorning its hypnotically circular melodies with textures both rural and cosmic, Let You Down is perfectly modulated, with soothing harmonies and shimmering guitars that evoke the moments between consciousness and slumber with pinpoint accuracy. [The Japanese release includes four bonus tracks: "Dirt and Grime," "Shaky Hand," "Down With Circumstance," and "Passed Over."]