7/10

Returning after their 2014 effort 'O Shudder', Manchester-based art-rock outfit Dutch Uncles are back to their usual ways as they release their eagerly-anticiapted fifth full-length 'Big Balloon'. The record spells the band's first outing as a four-piece after original member and guitarist Daniel Spedding chose to left the band shortly after their last album.

One thing that always seems to stand out about the Dutch Uncles sound, is just how consistent they have been after all these years. Their perky and danceable riffs seem to have become their own hallmark, as they treat us once again to another dose of their incredibly likeable style. Yet unlike some of their previous material, this new release sees them really get stuck in to their oddball influences and create an album that is both diverse and accessible.

It is hard to find something not to like on this new album as each track seems to be immersed in its own world. With every new cut that surfaces, we are delivered a more interesting direction, keeping the release not only sounding fresh, but keeping the listener on their toes. Certainly a return worthy of great merit.