Artists: Mobius Band

Album: “Heaven”

Label: Ghostly International

Release date: Oct. 2, 2007

Availability: CD, iTunes

The sophomore release by this Brooklyn-based trio delivers infectious pop hooks gathered with uncanny experimentalism. Ben Sterling and Peter Sax add very personal lyrics to the blend of junky electronica and basic indie rock that is full of circuit-bent keyboard backgrounds. There are definite traces of classic and alternative rock influence, but it seems that their ability to experiment pulls this band out of the bland indie rut in which most bands seem to get stuck. At first these songs sound like something that should be on generic FM radio, but a closer listen reveals a much more sophisticated aspect due greatly to the use of circuit-bent keyboards. Their pop-influenced vocal lines and electronic noise backgrounds help distinguish them as outsiders of the tired rock ‘n’ roll regulars crowd. If you are looking for something that breaks out of the traditional indie rock mold, perhaps give this album a listen.