Album Review: Yumi Zouma - Yoncalla

Yumi Zouma sounded like shy suburban kids on their early songs, but their debut album has all the glistening sheen of a toothpaste commercial.

This isn't to say that the New Zealand band have lost their charm, but simply that they've grown and changed. Their sound is richer and more expansive, with an abundance of angelic harmonies and cloud-busting synths. Songs like Text From Sweden and Yesterday hit the sweet spot in terms of the slinky grooves the band are known for, sliding sideways out of the speakers with style and grace. There's a few forgettable moments, but their music has always sounded decidedly allusive.