Electrelane

No Shouts No Calls marks a turn away from the elaborate instrumentals of Electrelane’s last disc, Axes, and instead presents a highly compelling collection of pop songs. With its layered arrangements and sweeping sentiments, the Brighton-based group’s fourth disc ranks amongst their most accomplished, creative work. While the more experimental tones of the band’s approach are in shorter supply, the album still offers imaginative music, featuring rich vocal melodies, adept musicianship and consistently strong songwriting. From slow, mesmerising numbers such as "The Greater Times” and "Cut and Run” to upbeat, vigorous tunes, including "After the Call” and "Tram 21,” the disc shows Electrelane in peak form. From its engaging opening notes to its spellbinding closing chords, No Shouts No Calls is a reliably first-rate record.