The Hylozoists — La Fin Du Monde

At the end of every year, Matt Groening publishes a Life In Hell comic strip where multiple characters ban overused words for the next 12 months. If I have my way, the only word on 2006's list will be "supergroup." The Hylozoists would be considered one of the ever-growing number. They come to it honestly, though. Led by vibraphone/glockenspiel player Paul Aucoin (Fembots), the group also feature, among many others, Wayne Petti (Cuff The Duke), Jason Tait (Weakerthans), Jeremy Strachan (Rockets Red Glare) and Julie Penner (Broken Social Scene). This sophomore effort sees the entire membership bringing their A-game. "Strait Is The Gate" and "Smiley Smiley" are immaculate pieces of instrumental indie rock whimsy, while "Hearts And Harps" is a positively gut-wrenching ballad. As unusual as it is to think that one of this year's most creative bands are fronted by a percussionist, The Hylozoists are blessed with stunning depth that everyone should hear.

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