When the moment dies

"Modern Drift" is the first song from Efterklang's new record Magic Chairs, out today in Europe and tomorrow in the US. As opening statements go, it's a good one - the piano starts quietly, then more piano, then those thumping drums, then it all breaks open. This track makes the record sound like a gradual incline, which it is. The album is an increasingly ornate piece of pop music that uses its bells and whistles wisely and sparingly.
Efterklang hails from Copenhagen, and Magic Chairs is their third full-length. There's a lot to be said for records that have a consistent sound, but I also like records that crest and fall, quicken and slow. I like this record a lot, and I hope it gives the band a lot of attention stateside.
To pre-order Magic Chairs, head over to 4AD, where you can also check out the band's tour dates. Go to MySpace to hear the whole record.