3 years after a self-titled debut, Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn AKA Sylvan Esso are back with their 2nd full-length, What Now. The North Carolina duo's brand of indie pop has depth, and SE's ability to effortlessly express complex, often contrasting moods is a signature character for the group. Carefully crafted layers of electronica—toggling between bright, bouncy and somber, tension-filled—glides under sharp, biting lyrics ("Don't you look good sucking American dick?" in "Radio") disguised in sweet melody, and it is this stimulating dynamic that sets Sylvan Esso apart from other names operating in the indie pop scene. Highlights from What Now: "The Glow," "Die Young," "Kick Jump Twist," and "Signal."

• digital download included
• printed inner sleeve
• colored vinyl (blue, red or green, randomly available)
• music label: Loma Vista Recordings 2017

reviewed by donut savage 05/2017