Dirty Projectors — Bitte Orca

Dirty Projectors seem to have finally found the balance between experimentalism and pop on Bitte Orca. Its songs are out-there without being overly esoteric or cerebral, and are poppy, but manage stay true to the group's nerd rock roots.

"Temecula Sunrise" begins with a folky intro before math rock guitar riffs and shifting time signatures take over, and "The Bride" is similar. Meanwhile, indie kids will likely have heart attacks over the incredible single, "Stillness Is The Move," which is dancey enough to be played in a club like Ottawa's Zaphod Beeblebrox and features vocals that recall Mariah Carey, but is still far too experimental to ever appear on radio.

The lilting and beautiful "Two Doves," though, wouldn't be out of place on your FM dial, or could at least be used on a soundtrack. "Remade Horizon" is a brilliant combination of east African-influenced vocals, folk and geeky, squealing guitars that sound like Yes' "Roundabout" put through a washing machine, turned inside out and then chopped up using a food processor.

Bitte Orca might require a few listens before you "get it" — truthfully, it's one of those albums that takes multiple listens — but it really is one of the best albums released this year. Hanging out with David Byrne has done Dave Longstreth and company good.

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