The sophomore release from Anthony Gonzalez and Nicolas Fromageau (a.k.a. M83) carries on the rich tradition of electronic wash and dense soundscapes without repeating the magic found on the band’s first release, Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts. Dead Cities relied heavily on instrumental ambience and bombastic dirges, but this collection finds the group incorporating vocals into the mix with great effect. Songs like “Farewell/Goodbye” are proof positive that the duo is more than a one-trick pony. In addition, M83 seeks to find a happy medium between dissonance and melody. The group’s minimalist choruses achieve much more in a few measures than most musicians do in a full-length player. If you’re looking for a repeat of last year’s masterpiece, stop now. M83 has successfully morphed again.

(RN&R)