The glorious Deserters' Songs provided Mercury Rev with the opportunity to forge themselves among the leaders of the 21st century's alternative music scene, but this never quite materialised following two rather lukewarm efforts. Make no mistake however, Midnight Snowflake is as dramatic as a return to form can be and in truth eclipses any of their previous offerings.

Most of the elements that create Mercury Rev's signature sound remain intact but have been reinvented in a refreshing and truly original fashion. The breathtaking beauty of the arrangements are accompanied perfectly by Jonathon Donahue's soulful, yet gentle harmonies behind innovative and perfectly constructed electro beats. Snowflake Midnight will hopefully teach the Ting Tings a ting or two in an era of electro dirge and goes to evidence that 99p plastic sunglasses and 'mockney' lyrics are not the only necessary ingredients to succeed in this field.

This album is a triumph, but sadly, it will probably be… more »

The glorious Deserters' Songs provided Mercury Rev with the opportunity to forge themselves among the leaders of the 21st century's alternative music scene, but this never quite materialised following two rather lukewarm efforts. Make no mistake however, Midnight Snowflake is as dramatic as a return to form can be and in truth eclipses any of their previous offerings.

Most of the elements that create Mercury Rev's signature sound remain intact but have been reinvented in a refreshing and truly original fashion. The breathtaking beauty of the arrangements are accompanied perfectly by Jonathon Donahue's soulful, yet gentle harmonies behind innovative and perfectly constructed electro beats. Snowflake Midnight will hopefully teach the Ting Tings a ting or two in an era of electro dirge and goes to evidence that 99p plastic sunglasses and 'mockney' lyrics are not the only necessary ingredients to succeed in this field.

This album is a triumph, but sadly, it will probably be confined to the small fan base that America's finest have worked nearly two decades to accumulate. A must!