Review: Little Dragon back with soulful 'New Me, Same Us'

Little Dragon, 'œNew Me, Same Us'ť (Ninja Tune)

As indicated by the title of their latest album, 'œNew Me, Same Us,'ť the members of Swedish four-piece Little Dragon may have found themselves on separate personal journeys, but their sound is as cohesive as ever. And the group is back to doing what they've consistently done - that is, capturing a familiar pop, R&B and electronic sound by way of perfectly off-kilter instrumentation.

There are the straight-forward gems. That includes first single 'œHold On'ť - a party-starter with a disco vibe, and 'œAnother Lover,'ť a conventional R&B track made irresistible thanks to Yukimi Nagano's longing vocals.

But there's always a surprise waiting, too. And that's what makes Little Dragon, and their latest album, so special. 'œRush,'ť for example, starts in a cold clatter of percussion, then seconds later drops into the most mellow of mood-boosting island grooves. It's magic, complements of HÃ¥kan Wirenstarnd (keyboards), Fredrik Wallin (bass) and Erik Bodin (drums and percussion).

The details make a difference on 'œNew Fiction,'ť with its other-worldly chimes, combined with a head-bopping beat. Despite the title, 'œAre You Feeling Sad?'ť is a peppy anthem - light on words, and heavy on layer after layer of feel-good sounds and effects.

It's easy to lose track of lyrics in the waves of music, but 'œNew Me, Same Us'ť stays on topic - circling around the idea of change and the passage of time, a sentiment captured beautifully on 'œWhere You Belong.'ť

After more than two decades together, Little Dragon's 'œNew Me, Same Us'ť proves the band is right where it needs to be.