The New Pornographers - Together (Matador)
Sometimes it's best to leave a good thing alone. If it ain't broke, don't fix it - that's what they say, isn't it? Canada's The New Pornographers' latest offering 'Together' is by no means an example of a band changing direction, but it is, nevertheless, pretty special. And warm. It also feels a bit like an apology for the somewhat disappointing fourth album 'Challengers'. Certainly for fans of the band it is reliably good.

'Silver Jenny Dollar' feels like a call back to the good old days of 'Mass Romantic', 'Sweet Talk, Sweet Talk' is scrumptiously twee in its delivery, and 'Valkyrie In The Roller Disco' is a beautiful track for more pensive moments. But the most pleasantly surprising thing about this album is the odd guest appearances, from Beirut, St Vincent and Okkervil River, amongst others. It makes for a collective of the contemporary North American indie cool, if you will, and the guests fit in well with The New Pornographers' lush, euphoric sounds.

'Together' is a catchy, loud, infectious record that, while carefully produced, isn't at all safe, and is a return to form from the kings and queens of joyful indie.

Review originally published by CMU Music Network: www.cmumusicnetwork.co.uk

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