Codes and KeysAtlantic ****

It was risky for Death Cab for Cutie to sign a major label contract after years of cult success, but the gamble has paid off three albums into their long-term deal. Still, Ben Gibbard and friends refuse to play it safe following their recent mainstream achievements. Codes and Keyshinges on Jason Kerr's intricate drumming rather than bogstandard guitar-based tunes, creating parallels with Radiohead on Home Is a Fireand Doors Unlocked and Open. But this is no mere Thom Yorke tribute. Both the title track and You Are a Touristunleash gleeful clatters of pop melody, while Some Boysand, particularly, Unobstructed Viewsare seasoned with skyscraping ambition, their steady, slow-building thrust unravelling layers and intricacies that can only be deciphered upon multiple listens. See deathcabforcutie. com

Download tracks: You Are a Tourist, Codes and Keys