8/10

We have been enjoying the blissful sound of US outfit Real Estate for many years now. And while the band did have more of a cult fanbase in their formative years, their third studio album 'Atlas' became their most commercially successful album to date. Giving the band a whole new level of pressure when it came to following it up, but thankfully 'In Mind' shows that this New York-based team are far from losing their touch.

Much like 'Atlas', this new record gives us the most proficient directions of the band's style. On one side, you have their long, drawn-out folk melodies, and the other is a nod towards their psychedelic influences, creating a release of two very different experiences. While at times they want to create a serene and pleasant landscape, others turn the landscape into a kaleidoscope of jangling guitars and wistful vocals that somehow remain accepted in their calm demeanour.

Thankfully, this record still has plenty of bite on it as well. While it may come across as just another folky backdrop, their competent songwriting shines through on almost every track, giving us a release that is hard not to feel joyful about.