When Engine Down released "Demure" in 2002, a number of questions began to arise. While the album was carried through by the bands sullen charisma, the stripped-down approach used upon it left it feeling a bit barren. In turn, many wondered if the group would return to the richer sounding style from their previous efforts. Fortunately enough, the response elicited by this self-titled outing is a resounding yes, as they have once again immersed themselves in a wealth of majestic sounding sonic textures. With a bigger sound back on board, a wealth of touring and a new label in the form of Lookout! behind them, this criminally overlooked band look to be in a position to finally breakout and get their due.

Throughout the years Engine Down have established a rather intricate sound for themselves and this effort sees all their strengths coming to a head. While their material may lend itself to an angular post-rock/indie rock format, its abundance of emotion and progressive instrumentation have also put it a cut above. To put it bluntly, the material found here is beautiful. The band vividly convey a sense of dejection that hasn't been this palatable since early Sunny Day Real Estate. But while their songs are almost cripplingly gorgeous, there is also a sense of underlying hope that urges them on, giving them even more relevance to the listener. Of course they do this through the use of a droning, yet motivational rhythm section, atmospheric guitar parts and heartfelt vocals. But while their means may not be so revolutionary on paper, the way the group compile them into such an enveloping package is truly mesmerizing.

In a time where groups are blowing up left and right with groan inducing faux 'emotional' rock, a band like Engine Down are a godsend. True introspection, intelligence and emotion are freely delivered in a pure and non-commercially tampered form. From their humble beginnings Engine Down have always put artistry above success and such a quality has earned them the admiration of many. While "Engine Down" may be perhaps their most accessible outing to date, it is done so organically with the band coming to such a state on their own terms. That alone makes this album an offering worth hearing. Factor in that is also a breathtaking view into the world of rock's more simplistically creative lighter side and you're left with one of the best albums of the year.