White Rabbits

The sophomore album is a tricky balance. You want to show maturity and longevity, to prove to your fans (and yourself) you're in this for the long haul, but you also don't want to alienate them. With Fort Nightly, White Rabbits successfully made an impression in the glut of indie rock with radio-ready pop songs with just enough edge to make them feel at home in a dirty rock bar. While this follow-up is more spacious and measured, it doesn't do much to prove the band are more than just another indie rock act. "Rudie Falls" has that stomping percussion and intensity for something special but doesn't deliver. Tellingly, the exact same thing can be said about "Right Where They Left." The only notable standout is "Company I Keep," which creates a spacey atmosphere punctuated by repeating piano and layered guitars. It pops with ideas and strives for an edge that's sorely lacking in the rest of the album. So, yes, don't worry, as the pomp and hooks are still here but not much else.