Blonde Redhead

With the hyaline artfulness of 23, Blonde Redhead complete the transformation they started with 2000's Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons. No longer is the trio careening through the claws-out post rock of their early records. These days they're more reserved, using propulsive, high-minded beats and elegant, arching melodies. Kazu Makino's breathy lines are ideal for this formula, with highlights in "The Dress" and "Silently." When she hands the mic to Amedeo Pace on "Publisher," it nearly recalls the sinister sneer of their earlier stuff, though it's far too pretty to bite.