Noise Pop duo Alexi Krauss and Derek Miller, better known collaboratively as Sleigh Bells, are at it again (dare I say, just as good as ever) with their latest album Bunky Becky Birthday Boy. Their 6th (and a half, depending on how you count it) album feels comfortably similar but excitingly different from their previous work, like a seamless step in the Sleigh Bells evolution. Across the 11 tracks on the album, there are some brief moments that feel like pure hyperpop, but just as you’re getting comfortable, you’re immediately whisked back into the signature DIY-sounding guitar riffs and bass-boosted double kick drums that has come to be expected from the duo. 

Prior to the official release date, we had already gotten a taste of the album with the release of three singles. Electro-focused “This Summer”, punchy “Bunky Pop”, and a more classic sounding “Wanna Start A Band?” gave us a good sampling of what was to come. The album incorporates some new sounds while still immediately being identifiable as Sleigh Bells to any seasoned fan – “Roxette Ric” and “Blasted Shadow” bring in a little bit of 80s influence, while “Can I Scream” feels a little reminiscent of 100 Gecs before sweeping in with a melodic chorus and powerful guitar riff. On the exact opposite end of the spectrum, “Real Special Cool Thing” brings us back to basics in the form of a more straightforward rock, almost veering on pop-punk song. 

Although the album goes in a few different stylistic directions, the overarching signature sound manages to pull it all together in a way that doesn’t sound disjointed. As is typical for the duo, most of the songs clock in under 3 minutes, and the whole album can be devoured on a lunch break. This is normally something I’d harp on, but Sleigh Bells has clearly found their sweet spot here. The relatively short songs don’t ever get an opportunity to feel like they’re dragging, which may be a strength for a genre that often has so much going on sonically.

Overall, this is quintessential windows down, sunroof open, driving 40mph in a 30 zone music, and it couldn’t have come out at a better time – the northeast is defrosting and the soundsystem in my 2009 Nissan Rogue is about to become everyone else’s problem, thanks to at least a few tracks off the album. Sleigh Bells is kicking off their US tour in support of the album next month (with support from Sophie Hunter), so be sure to check them out if they’re stopping in a city near you.