Why?

Only a year has passed since the release of post-hip-hop trio Why?'s previous album, Alopecia, and yet here they are again to challenge listeners with another record of their weirdo pop songs. Eskimo Snow is accurately described by the band as their "least hip-hop" effort, as opener "These Hands" proves with its soft harmonies, layered keys and spare drums. "January Twenty Something" perks up a little with some busy keyboard tinkering and "Into the Shadows of My Embrace" shows some diversity, with a guitar-heavy sock-hop vibe. But ultimately Eskimo Snow sees Why? losing some of their previous intensity for quieter, albeit deeply layered, pop structures. The result is a fantastic effort that stands as the most accessible album in their canon. This is a welcome change of pace from the overwhelming work they were previously known for.