8/10

It has been a very turbulent time for Beirut frontman Zach Condon since they released their last studio album 'The Rip Tide' in 2011. In those last four years, Condon has found himself divorced and briefly admitted to hospital due to exhaustion. However, by his own admissions, he has made a full recovery thanks to his return to New York and this new album seems to reflect the songwriter's new beginning.

While the record will seem like business as usual to any Beirut fan, there are the odd moments of intrigue that play throughout. Whether its the completely instrumental 'As Needed' or the fluttering electronics of title track 'No No No', the album seems to be in a constant state of discovery and play. Its lack of pretence sets its itself up as a brilliantly open record that invites the listener to join the band as they look to find the sound that fits their musical disposition.

And while those four years may have been hard on Condon, it is clear that we are listening to a whole new man on this release. 'No No No' has this fresh sense of optimism about it and gives us a truly wonderful listen in the process.