8/10

Since releasing their well-received debut album 'Human Ceremony' back in 2016, New York's Sunflower Bean were met with love and appreciation for their modern yet retro sound. Taking clear inspiration from the likes of Fleetwood Mac and other classic outfits, the band quickly became a huge name on the cult scene. And despite only two years passing since those days, their second studio LP 'Twenty Two In Blue' delivers far more confidence this time around.

Not to say they were any kind of wallflower on their debut, but it just seems that some time in the limelight and on the road has developed them so much as a group. While there are plenty of callbacks to the sound of their first record, this new release is also filled with a more experimental and diverse direction, showing that the band are not that comfortable sticking to their roots but wish to try new and exciting ideas.

It certainly is a very warm and welcoming return from the trio. While the first record may have more of a focus to it, 'Twenty Two In Blue' definitely feels like a point of growth for their sound and helps cement them as one of America's most exciting bands.