Art Brut may sound like a one trick pony upon first listen but throughout their last three records, they’ve showed both a consistency and a willingness to tinker with the sound. While the first record Bang Bang Rock & Roll laid the blueprint for what the band wasn’t. It’s A Bit Complicated demonstrated a willingness to retain the personality and incorporate a greater pop aesthetic. Art Brut Vs. Satan finds the band even further down this road with songs that display subtle pop hooks so clever, you might even find non-music listeners asking who you’re listening to.

Good for a mixtape and gets better on repeated listens, Art Brut Vs. Satan seems like their most mature record to date. Reduced are the excessively repetitive lyrics with more focus on the double lead guitar backing up the bass melody on most songs. Of course, it goes without saying that Art Brut has taken cues from The Clash and Gang Of Four and may even be considered the Brit version of America’s The Hold Steady. With a confessional verse followed by a sing-along chorus.

Art Brut’s fans will certainly be happy with this one and may make some new fans too. It’s melodic, individual, earnest and sincere. If you have a few extra bucks and hit the record store, it will be hard to pass up.

[mp3] Art Brut – Mysterious Bruises