I’ve been marinating in this album all week. I’ll be honest: I was a little weary. “Oracular Spectacular” was a singles-heavy mixed bag, free for listeners to pick and choose what they wanted. For each track I loved, there was one or two I could care less about. Regardless, “Oracular Spectacular” had something interesting and loveable there, and every preview of the new record spoke of the band’s growth, so I gave “Congratulations” a try.

This record has such a rich, interesting sound. It’s atmospheric, it’s eclectic. The entire record flows so well, you just put it on and get lost in the music. It sounds almost timeless — hard to do without coming off like you’re imitating existing so-called “timeless” music.

Of course there are standout tracks — “Flash Delirium” and “Congratulations” are my favorites — but even the more subdued numbers, “Someone’s Missing” immediately comes to mind, are great. And the record’s peak, the 12-minute-long “Siberian Breaks” is just fantastic.

If you haven’t yet, check “Kids” at the door and give this album a listen. At the very least the band will surprise you with their direction and maturity.