Legendary indie rockers Built to Spill have done it again with Ancient Melodies of the Future, an album that demands to be heard. From the soaring “Strange” to quirky cuts like “In Your Mind” and pop gem “Fly Around my Pretty Little Miss,” this album offers great variety, exploring several sub-genres of rock and executing each with aplomb.

Not everything, however, is perfect. Unlike their eponymous initial release, few tracks on Ancient build to a meaningful and gratifying conclusion. The quality of their melodies, however, largely compensates for this weakness, leaving the listener satisfied if not sated. Fortunately, the album’s closer, “The Weather,” does approach perfection, starting out slowly and gradually developing into a soaring rock anthem.

So whether you are a long time fan of Built To Spill or completely unfamiliar with their past, this CD is a keeper – an addictive one that won’t let go.
Built To Spill

Ancient Melodies of the Future

(Warner Brothers)

reviewed by Danny Kelly