Following the veritable whirlwind of line-up changes that ensued after the release of their 2003 full-length debut "Next Time We Stop Breathing", Goodbye Blue Monday have regrouped and returned for another batch of engagingly intelligent indie rock. A heartfelt experience that charms with graceful sonic experimentation that is equal parts indie, space and prog, the band deliver an undeniably compelling listen.

Moody enough to illicit a deep sigh from any crestfallen listener, yet transcendental enough to encourage an accompaniment of mind-altering drugs, this is humble music without commercial aspirations. Much like Shiner and Engine Down before them, Goodbye Blue Monday seem far more intent on engulfing instrumentation and taking the listener on an emotional journey than writing the next college radio hit.

Angular guitars interject themselves with ardor as they wander about performing dynamic exploration. Authoritative bass lines that remain surprisingly poignant add extra cushion and focus. All while a tightly-clasped drumming performance assertively sets the pacing by which the band are governed. The modestly distorted vocals take advantage of this unique combination, leaving ample amounts of space for instrumental build-up and ringing notes. And it is this carefully plotted approach that allows the band to express themselves with a hesitant sense of belief that heightens their forlorn appeal.

Not without its problems, the jamming aspect can become a bit repetitive and the vast amounts of aural tinkering and unconventional song structuring will not appeal to most. But for those looking for an engrossing listen both despondent and brave enough to avoid pop sentiment, "Help Is On The Way" is an effort you won't want to say goodbye to for very long.