Welcome to Sideways

Following 2014’s experimental Whorl, Simian Mobile Disco fifth album aims “squarely at the dancefloor”. Having eschewed the guest vocalists of previous records, the vibe is dark, minimal, and subtle: “Happening Distractions” evokes early synth pioneers, while “Bubble Has No Answers” layers on sleek, enveloping textures. They reach a peak with the warped clangs of “Staring at All This Handle”, but gradually bring it back down to the pulsing ambience of “Drone Follows Me Everywhere”. Sophisticated and absorbing.