Alt-J

An Awesome WaveInfectious ****

Here's further proof of the futility of judging a book by its cover. Alt-J come at us with triangles galore, but don't let that put you off. Instead of the work of some sound-of-2010 chillwave chancers or faddish chameleons, we get a hugely enjoyable, striking debut album. Like fellow leftfield swingers Django Django, the Leeds band's art school background has given them poise and panache, and the guile and gumption to roam many musical ranges. This cavalier, confident approach means that deconstructing each song reveals a record- store shopping list of influences (Orange Juice, mathrock, 1970s' folk, robotic r'n'b, Skins-wave, etc). Trust in Alt-J's ability to seperate style from substance, though: you'll be rewarded with a run of thrilling, innovative, unlikely pop sparklers. An album and a band that are not afraid to be smart. altjband.com

Download tracks: Matilda, Breezeblocks, Dissolve Me, Fitzpleasure