Three years after the striking Saturdays = Youth, M83 returns with a grandiose double album, Hurry Up, We're Dreaming. The lead single, "Midnight City," immediately stands out, with the synth-heavy and upbeat instrumental laying down the foundation for Alex Gonzalez's lightly flowing vocals. "My Tears Are Becoming A Sea" is highlighted by the soothing intro as well as the way the track progresses into a grand, synth-washed affair, with "OK Pal" marking another exhilarating synth-pop moment. The beautiful "Splendor" is meditative and emotive, followed by "Raconte-Moi Une Histoire" which, while maintaining the shimmer of "Splendor," picks up the tempo of the album. Other notable tracks include the acoustic guitar-driven "Soon, My Friend," the folksy, uptempo "Year one, One UFO," and the intense, aggressive and shoegaze-y "This Bright Flash. All in all, Hurry Up... packs a potent, engaging, and dreamy mix of synth-pop, ambient, shoegaze, and electronica (think somewhere between Saturday = Youth and Before The Dawn Heals Us), a real treat for the ears. 24 tracks total, recommended.

• black double vinyl pressing
• printed inner sleeves
• music label: Mute 2020

reviewed by nakinboots 10/2011