Originally an offshoot of LA creative collective Odd Future, it was Ego Death, The Internet's Grammy-nominated third LP, that put Syd, Matt Martian and the rest of the gang at the forefront of the young, cool brand of r&b. Following the record's success, however, the members decided to take a break to pursue solo projects (Syd dropped Fin to much critical acclaim). A few years later and some time spent apart, the group comes together again and puts forth a much more refined full-length. Employing both live and programmed instrumentation, the production blurs the line between analog and digitally processed sounds, and the band is able to capture an extremely groovy, loose feel that often defines the best records, old and new, of the genre it is operating in. There is also an uncomplicated, youthful vigor that fuels the tracks, and Syd's vocals, which a lot of the effortlessness of Hive Mind is owed to, lays down the foundation of the serene, sonically forward and deeply intimate LP. Highlights include "La Di Da," "Come Over," "Come Together," and "Roll (Burband Funk)," but trust, there is not one filler on here—press play and enjoy from beginning to end.

• import version
• black double vinyl pressing
• housed in gatefold jacket w/ printed inner sleeves
• digital download included
• music label: Columbia 2018

reviewed by pocari papi 08/18