7/10

Throughout their remarkable legacy these past three decades, EELS have remained one of the more imaginative and inventive names doing the rounds. Breaking out of their post-grunge shell in the late 90s to develop more of that dreamy aesthetic they have become synonymous for, the band's tenure has been filled with renowned and revered releases, all adding their part to their immaculate run of form. And with them hardly tiring in recent years, they return once again with their fifteenth studio album 'EELS TIME!', a record that is a little more sombre than its title suggests.

While normally ones to explore the bigger and more anthemic side to the indie-rock sound, 'EELS TIME!' is a largely pensive affair that uses soft and humbled production to get its message across. Creating more of those warm and embracing textures, albeit in a more hollowed direction this time around, EELS continue this adventurous pursuit with a solid return to the fold, brimming with some beautifully passionate moments to boot.

Although it may not have the same instant impact they have garnered in the past, 'EELS TIME!' still has some brilliantly engaging gems in which to absorb. Moving with this subtle elegance from track to track, they are far from running low on ideas here.