8/10

Over the years, the sound of Dirty Projectors has evolved and moved around so much that it can sometimes be hard to keep up. The experimental windings of chief Projector Dave Longstreth has at times delved too far into the self-indulgent pretence of creating something that makes you think rather than something you can enjoy. But returning just over a year since last year's brilliant self-titled full-length, the band aim to deliver far more joy and warmth on their eighth studio record.

From the start, 'Lamp Lit Prose' presents itself as a wonderfully upbeat release. With major keys a plenty and a light, fresh approach to production, the new album looks to do away with all the musical complexities of previous material and deliver something that just has a little more impact on the soul. We have obviously heard this uplifting style from the band before, but it just seems that this time they have really delved into it, producing a record full of heartwarming prose and a sense of spiritual wonder as it plays.

While much of their previous work has found itself quite a challenging listen, 'Lamp Lit Prose' is easily their most accessible record to date. A beautifully written wonder of modern originality that time and time again throws up something new and fascinating to get your head around.