On first listen this follow-up to 2006's Americana-drenched midnight classic, 'The Loon', the songs rather pass you by, except pumping lead off single 'Hang them all'. For me, a sign of an exciting album, as after several listens you become hooked by the evolved songwriting of Josh Grier, and songs like the brilliant 'Conquest and 'Le Ruse' jump out at you.
Its a real step-up from their lo-fi debut, and a bolder and more widescreen effort, but still has the ragged charm of ace tunes ala 'Omaha', 'Manitoba' and 'The Illiad'. 'Say back something' and my favourite, 'Time of Songs' are T 'n T at their melodic best.
As compelling as their debut, with the best closing track of the noughties in 'The Dirty Dirty'. Essential listening.
