SOUND BITES

The long-gestating third album by Japandroids (nearly five years have passed since the release of their highly acclaimed Celebration Rock ) carries are a few subtle shifts in overall tone, most notably the addition of acoustic guitars and synths. The duo's chops cut through any frills, though, and they're still very much adhering to their standard M.O. of brightly coloured and brash rock. It's every bit as exultant as you'd expect if you're familiar with them, and that it packs a few more tricks into the bag isn't a detraction or a distraction. On the whole, it may not be quite as energetic or build as much momentum as Celebration Rock did, but when tempos dip and the songs stretch out, as on album centerpiece Arc of Bar , there's more room for the music to breathe; think of it as less of a white-knuckle thrill ride and more of a vibrant scenic drive. To simply repeat what came before likely wouldn't have served these songs justice, and neither wo...

JAPANDROIDS The House That Heaven Built From: Celebration Rock Released: May 29 Like any band trumped up by the blogosphere, Japandroids were suddenly cast into the spotlight (although one far dimmer than that of the mainstream). And, like any band trumped up by the blogosphere, Japandroids were going to face heavy doses of scrutiny upon the release of their sophomore album. However, unlike most bands trumped up by the blogosphere, Japandroids didn't aim higher or go bigger. They crafted an album of, well, celebration rock. The album soars and roars, the power duo of Brian King and David Prowse creating a joyful racket, none more massive than The House That Heaven Built . Enjoy them now; after all, like any band trumped by the blogosphere, they'll be cast aside by the likes of Pitchfork by the time their next album drops.