There's something in the air in Los Angeles. Rainbow Arabia seem to have taken a deep breath of it and exhaled a sound that is informed by a myriad of influences, but underscored by its uniqueness. The husband and wife duo of Danny & Tiffany Preston have honed their sound with F.M. Sushi, while still maintaining the adventurous experimentalism of their debut, Boys and Diamonds. With their sophomore full length they channel 80s synth pop, synthetic sax infused easy listening, and Stevie Nicks. Tiffany Preston's vocals draw on the Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter's legacy while simultaneously sounding like The Knife. But where The Knife has descended into seriousness there's an ever present sense of whimsy and innocence that permeates F.M. Sushi. Whether it's the previously mentioned sax action or their unironic retro sound kits there's a lighthearted feel to the album. And there is where Rainbow Arabia shines, in those moments where most would turn towards introspection they let it all hang out.

• music label: Time No Place 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 06/2013