Moodier and darker than 2003‘s Berlinette, Thrills maintains Allien‘s position as a point person for techno‘s ever-evolving sound. Again she contributes vocals-on “Your Body Is My Body,” where a spidery texture and ghostly gurgles travel the empty spaces, and “Down,” where an electro break is hijacked by a decidedly feminist chant. Sans beat, dreamy rocker “Naked Rain” could enter the Pop Ambient realm, as it-like most of Thrills-is propelled by the sentimental melody at its heart. While not all the tracks are as strong, each benefits from Allien‘s humanistic touch. Recalling Richard Brautigan‘s 1968 poem, her work seems informed by machines of loving grace.