As I listened to this latest album from Ex Norwegian, I kept getting the feeling that I'd heard it before. And then, suddenly, I realized that I'd listened to the whole album. And I understood.

Ex Norwegian No Sleep (Think Like a Key)

This is Ex Norwegian's ninth album. If you aren't already a fan of the band's kitchen-sink approach to power pop (one that is highly reminiscent of the New Pornographers, with guest shouters and all), there's nothing here that will change your mind. If, somehow, you haven't ever come across the band and think you might be interested--trust me, you will be.

The songcraft is as tight as ever, and the raucous production sound loosens things up to a wonderfully-approachable level. This album was released the day after summer started, and that's just about perfect. Few bands scream summer like Ex Norwegian.

So, yes, nothing new to see here. Just power pop brilliance, shimmering even as summer turns into a molten mess. Drop this in and ease into your own fade.

Jon Worley