7/10

Since releasing their much-admired sophomore full-length 'Olympia' back in 2013, Canadian electro-outfit Austra have mainly kept themselves to smaller releases ever since. Unveiling a flurry of EP and single releases over the last few years has kept them not only in good stead with their fans, but has also allowed the band to experiment on various avenues of sound throughout. Their explorations and journey has led them to 'Future Politics', a record of great diversity and discovery.

Typically, Austra's sound to date has been that of a more sombre outfit, exploring soundscapes with a haunting overtone. But 'Future Politics' sees them eyeing up a more uplifting direction, as the album's title-track proves. Every now and then, they gravitate more towards a contemporary techno outfit than anything else, which helps give the album a certain urgency to it, creating a record that demands to be heard.

While there are a few less than impressive moments on this release, much of it remains highly enjoyable. Austra have managed to reinvent themselves on this new release, showing us the evolution of their sound and the possibility of where they will be heading next. Giving us a very exciting experience in the process.