Sophomore full length from M83 released back in 2003. Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts followed their eponymous debut and was the album that really put the band on the map with a sound that drew comparisons to My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Mogwai and Air. Essentially the music has the same sweeping, emotional feel as shoegaze, but with an electronic, synthesizer aesthetic often giving the tunes an even more epic and powerful vibe. "Beauties Can Die" is the longest track of the album (clocking in at almost 15 minutes) and showcases all that M83 has to offer. From delicate melodies, to walls of layered noise and beautiful ambience unfolding, the song plays out like one an epic movie for your ears. "Be Wild," "On A White Lake Near A Green Mountain," and "In Church" hit similar points, while "Run Into Flowers" and "Cyborg" introduce drums for an serioiusly intense effect. 13 tracks spread over double 180g vinyl with free download included. Recommended.

• 180g black double vinyl pressing
• digital download included
• music label: Mute 2014

reviewed by TKB 11/2011