Mogwai are probably one of the most innovative (and yes, repetitive) bands in existence. Their trademark tedecore sound has been imitated by countless bands, but never equalled; their ability to build and crescendo off a single rhythm is inspired, and the complexities surrounding that rhythm rival some of the best composers of all time.

Happy Songs for Happy People is no exception; from the start of the record their unique brand of distortion-based emotive builds suck the listener in, creating rhythms and melodies that are both soothing and, at the same time, thought provoking, succeeding in eliciting a truly nostalgic feeling. It's like a river of sound, though at times slightly reminiscent of Godspeed! You Black Emperor and such bands, it never falls too derivative, choosing instead to borrow ideas for instrumentation and not actual rhythm or style.

Happy Songs for Happy People may not be aptly named, but it is definitely one of the ten best releases of the year thus far. Worth your hard earned pennies.

-Todd Berry