It's hard to believe that it's been a decade since the release of Up In Flames. The sophomore album from Dan Snaith - then known as the pre-lawsuit Manitoba - saw the producer ditch the accomplished electronica of his debut for more psychedelic pastures. Although Up In Flames seems to be largely sample based, one can't help but feel that the root of the album is in live performances. The drums are upfront, there's plenty of vocal action (from Stones Throw's Koushik none the less), and the instrumentation trades in guitars and soaring reverb. It may have been a surprise left turn for those of us that dug into Start Breaking My Heart, but Snaith showed deft skill and drew in a following of completely new fans. The tour behind Up In Flames was probably one of the loudest, drum heavy experiences I've ever had. The show was brutal, bringing the overwhelming sonic onslaught straight to the audience's bleeding ears! But it was all so worth it.

• music label: Leaf 2013
• includes CD version

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2013