The sophomore release from
National Skyline features more of the complex and obscure pop aesthetic that was established on their previous releases. Featuring members of
Hum, Caster, and
Compound Red, some may be surprised by the decidedly non-indie rock sound of This = Everything, though the adventurous soul will be rewarded. Layering atmospheric electronics, ringing guitars, and ethereal vocals over tight drum loops, the slithering "Some Will Say" and densely textured "A Million Circles" almost recall a more progressive
U2 sensibility. Still, this sonic denseness never becomes cluttered, even allowing a ponderous amount of empty space in certain arrangements. A few melodies take
Radiohead-esque turns, with the tense, churning guitars of "The Look" establishing an accessible though rarely overt pop songcraft. The nearly danceable beats of "A Night at the Drugstore" and expansive detachment and stuttering drum loops of "Morse Code" display the diversity of sounds in
National Skyline's intelligently crafted sonic palette. Overall, a rewarding and engaging listen.