Algiers

Crafted in New Orleans, Joey Burns' and John Convertino's sixth album is a truly wonderful and most enticing set of songs. Many feel strongly that this is the most exciting and song-y Calexico record to date. There is no filler here (not that there ever was), just one amazingly strong tune after the other. Stand-out tracks include "Para", "Splitter", "Fortune Teller" as well as "The Vanishing Mind".

The feel of 'Algiers' is recognisably classic Calexico, but their style has been revitalised and reborn through the experience of recording in the magical city of New Orleans. Their work has spoken of dusty deserts and the loners that inhabit them, mixing America's country music heritage with that of a Latin persuasion. In other words, it isn't obviously affiliated with the sounds that have made New Orleans one of the premiere tourist destinations in North America. The choice of New Orleans was largely down to long time collaborator / producer Craig Schumacher. "We were talking about wanting to go to Europe and record," Burns says, "but we never get our stuff together in time to make plans that far in advance. So where do you go that is nearby and has a European feel? New Orleans." New Orleans clearly inspired them to make an album that sees them stretch out more effortlessly than ever before.

Yes, you can take the men out of Calexico, but you can't take Calexico out of the men... have a listen to 'Algiers' and see for yourself - we love it.