Clues Clues

• Words: Shawn Reynaldo
• Label: Constellation
• XLR8R Rating: 8/10

Since the Unicorns broke up in 2004, founding member Alden Penner has been relatively quiet, allowing his one-time partner and current Islands frontman Nick Diamonds to grab all the attention. With Clues, Penner has re-emerged with a stellar new band and some rather potent indie rock. Easy comparisons could be made to fellow Montreal outfit Arcade Fire, but Clues is much more varied, employing a multi-instrumental attack that often borrows from ’90s quiet-loud-quiet aesthetics (“Haarp,” “You Have My Eyes Now”). Punctuated by a stompy rhythm section and ringing guitars, songs like “Remember Severed Head” and “Approach the Throne” stand out, although mellower offerings like the piano-driven “Perfect Fit” and the psych-pop of “In the Dream” are also excellent.