8/10

Over the years, New York's Parquet Courts have been one of those rare outfits that seem to get better and more popular over time. Their previous full-length 'Human Performance' back in 2016 became their most commercially successful release to date, and obviously riding a wave of confidence within themselves, the band have returned with what is likely their most proficient studio album to date.

Recruiting the hit-making producer Danger Mouse for this release, the band were clearly taking no chances with how this record should sound. From the start, 'Wide Awake' aims to take their familiar post-punk sound and push it as far as it will go. Rather than opt for a succinct direction on this record, the band have looked to take a more diverse path. Which means that rather than push out more of the same, we are treated to variety of interesting ideas that still manage to flow well together.

'Wide Awake' does seem like the record this band were born to make. Far enough into their career, they have seized this opportunity to break away from their initial mould and deliver a brave and ambitious full-length that really pays off.