MAPS & ATLASES

Perch Patchwork

[Barsuk]

Their band’s name to the contrary, the members of Maps & Atlases don’t always indicate in which direction they’re headed. As the follow-up to their 2006 EP Tree, Swallows, Houses and last year’s You & Me & the Mountain, Perch Patchwork finds this unusual quartet dabbling in eclectic styles. In doing so, they clutter their arrangements with odd effects and skittish tempos, making it clear that they’re a rather eccentric bunch more interested in tinkering with textures than aiming for cohesion. The new album nonetheless offers standouts like the wordless rhythmic chant of “Will,” the melodic lilt of “Israeli Caves” and the catchy world beats of “Pigeon,” which sounds like an outtake from Paul Simon’s Graceland. Patchwork isn’t the kind of album that’s instantly accessible, but it is consistently intriguing and always entertaining. –Lee Zimmerman