It's been a minute since we last heard from Modest Mouse. Eight years to be exact. Anything can happen in that long of a time, and it certainly did in the creation of this long overdue album. Aside from the obvious growth and evolution any musician or band would experience, the band had since worked with some unexpected producers (including Big Boi of Outkast), cancelled tours, pushed back release dates - you name it, it happened. Finally, Isaac Brock and the gang pulled it together and break the radio silence left after 2007's We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank with Strangers To Ourselves. It's comforting to hear that despite the long process, Modest Mouse are still able to rock out with the best of 'em. It's a varied listening experience, with many tracks harkening back to the vibe of their earlier releases, while others push forward and experiment with heavier beats and strange indie dance moments. 15 tracks spread over double 180 gram vinyl, housed in awesome pic sleeve featuring an image of Arizona's Venture Out RV Resort.

• double 180 gram pressing
• sixth studio album
• music label: Epic 2015

reviewed by Buck Strickland 04/2015