This is rock that gnaws; guitar-based with the vocals turned down low, it’s a kind of hi-fi version of R.E.M.’s “Murmur”, yet definitely not. The songs are very different in style, tugging at the heart-strings rather than being intricate pop-pieces. Still, this is meticulously crafted and really beautiful at times.

Stand-out track to me: “Ex-Girl Collection”.

Will Sheff has covered the song “Ex-Girl Collection” for a single with Charles Bissell. Wonderful cover.

I saw The Wrens live, and it was probably one of the best shows I’ve ever seen in my life. This album is fabulous.