Once an L.A.-based electronic side project, Anubian Lights have released only their second album their fifth album in their ten year existence (the last being 2001’s Naz Bar). With the addition of vocalist Adele Bertei, it’s probably fair to consider Phantascope an entirely new album by an entirely new band. In both incarnations, Anubian Lights have jumped all over the musical map to the point where they try to cram several genres into each track, according to the reviewers. Either this works or it doesn’t; it’s a path with many pitfalls, where either the transitions between styles are harsh and obvious, or else everything blends into a liquid mix of mediocrity.

I’m really bad with genres, so it’s easier to describe bands that sound alike rather than pin them to specific styles. In this particular case, it’s really easy: this incarnation of Anubian Lights is a livelier, catchier Supreme Beings Of Leisure, both sharing a certain space-lounge essence. Anubian Lights use real instruments more often and lean towards the dancefloor more than their spiritual sibling, but it’s just as alluring. And it helps that Bertei is a versatile singer; she can play pretty much any vocal role demanded of her.

(note: this post has changed from the original, thanks to some corrections by the man himself, original and current band member Tommy Grenas.)